The Isle of Wight Steam Railway has announced the appointment of Marc Morgan-Huws as its Chief Executive.
The newly created role follows the trustees’ recognition that the successful, award-winning railway has reached another chapter in its 53-year development with significant opportunities ahead to further develop and strengthen the railway as an educational charity, visitor attraction and substantial volunteering provider.
The Chief Executive role will have a broader focus and a more strategic remit than the previous role of General Manager that it replaces.
Marc has previously held a number of senior positions within the transport industry and until last year was Commercial Director with First South West Ltd, responsible for commercial, contract, school and leisure bus and coach services across the South West.
He became a director / trustee of the steam railway in 2021 but stood down in December 2023 to take on the role of Interim General Manager following the departure of then General Manager, Steve Backhouse.
Chairman of the steam railway, Peter Taylor, said:
“Following Steve’s departure, the board has been evaluating how the railway should be managed for the future; with an anticipated turnover in excess of £3m this year and visitor numbers of 130,000 we are a major tourist attraction and one of the leading heritage railways in the country.
“We need a management structure and business plan to secure the future of the railway for at least the next 25-30 years.
“We have concluded that this is best achieved by the railway being headed up by a Chief Executive rather than a General Manager."
Marc Morgan-Huws said:
“It is a privilege to be able to lead the IWSR as it continues its remarkable journey – 53 years since the dedicated founder members and volunteers achieved the creation of the railway on part of the Ryde to Newport line – which celebrates its 150th anniversary next year.
“With an amazing community of around 500 volunteers, 3,000 members and 130,000 visitors a year the railway is an important part of Island life.
"We owe it to all of them to secure the railway for the future."
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