The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT UK) has appointed its first female chairperson to lead its board of trustees.
Anna-Jane Hunter has been confirmed as the new chair, while Austin Birks and Antoinette Irvine are coming in as new joint vice chairs.
Ms Hunter, pictured above (centre), qualified as a barrister before moving to the rail industry 19 years ago. She has a wide range of experience leading teams across multiple companies and groups and for the past five years has worked as an independent operations professional.
Ms Hunter said: ‘This is a huge honour for me, and I’m delighted to have such a fantastic team of vice-chairs to support me. As former vice-chair, I already have an insight and understanding of what is needed and how we can take CILT UK forward together. As our first ever female chair, I hope to help further open new doors and become a shining example to other females in our sector.’
Ms Irvine (above left) and Mr Birks (above right) also both come with a wealth of experience. Ms Irvine has 30 years of experience in the consumer goods sector and joined CILT UK as a co-opted board member in 2024.
She said: ‘This is a great opportunity for me and one I intend to grab with both hands.’
Mr Birks, who is currently the chief executive officer (CEO) of Verita HR, has 20 years of experience working with FirstGroup. As a member of CILT UK since 1983, he has also served as a member of the MRG, as well as chair of the bus and coach forum since 2008.
He added: ‘I am delighted with my recent appointment and am eager to contribute value and strategic guidance to the Institute. I am committed to fostering positive transformation within the coach and bus sector, recognising CILT UK’s crucial role in shaping its future.’
The CEO of CILT UK, Paul Adams, said: ‘I want to warmly welcome Anna-Jane, Antoinette and Austin. I know all three are bringing with them valuable experience and vision. They will help shape a new direction for us and I very much look forward to working with them.’
