Pictured: Bill Hiron
Leadership change announcement Bill Hiron hands over Chair role to David Astill
At the conclusion of the ALBUM Directors’ meeting on 29 January 2025, Bill Hiron formally stepped down as Chair of ALBUM after more than six years in the role. His tenure, which spanned the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, was marked by steadfast leadership and unwavering commitment to the UK’s bus industry.
Bill’s resignation as Chair was accepted with gratitude, with David Astill expressing appreciation on behalf of ALBUM and its Directors. Bill will continue to serve as an ALBUM Director, ensuring that his vast experience and expertise remain available to the organisation.
In a unanimous decision, the Directors approved the appointment of David Astill, Managing Director of Nottingham City Transport, as the new ALBUM Chair, effective immediately. A replacement Vice Chair has not been appointed at this time.
Pictured: David Astill
Reflecting on Bill’s leadership, David Astill said: “Bill has been a steadfast figure in ALBUM for many years, and his leadership during the pandemic was nothing short of exceptional. I recall the weekly meetings with my fellow managing directors of ALBUM member companies, where Bill’s calming reassurance and direct engagement with the Department for Transport were invaluable. His ability to navigate the sector through one of its most turbulent periods was a testament to his dedication and expertise.
Bill’s recent MBE, awarded at Windsor Castle by Princess Anne, was a fitting recognition of his contribution to our industry. On behalf of ALBUM, I extend my sincere thanks to Bill for his leadership and look forward to continuing our work together.”
Speaking on his departure as Chair, Bill Hiron said: “It has been an honour to serve as ALBUM Chair for over six years, particularly during such a transformative period for our industry. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, from navigating the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic to strengthening our relationships with key stakeholders. I have every confidence in David’s ability to lead ALBUM forward, and I look forward to continuing to support the organisation in my role as a Director.”
ALBUM also extends its appreciation to Jonathan Ziebart, who has resigned from his Director role following his move from Ascendal Group to consultancy Rebel Group. His contributions to ALBUM have been greatly valued.
The ALBUM Board of Directors continues to provide strong leadership for the organisation, ensuring that the interests of small and medium-sized bus operators and the vital industry suppliers (Associate Members) are represented effectively. These supplier members are crucial in supporting the sector by providing innovative products, services, and solutions that help operators deliver high-quality transport services.
The current ALBUM Directors are:
David Astill – Nottingham City Transport (Chair)
Rob Hicklin – Nottingham City Transport (Treasurer)
Tom Quay – Passenger Technology Group (Associate Member Rep)
Bill Hiron – Stephensons of Essex
Anthony Carver-Smith – Nottingham City Transport
Michael Bishop – Compass Travel
Ben Wakerley – Warrington’s Own Buses
Jane Cole – Blackpool Transport
Sarah Boyd – Lothian Buses
Richard Telling – Falcon Buses
Nick Hornsby – Hornsby Travel
Gareth Stevens – Cardiff Transport
ALBUM Support:
Andrew Halliday – ALBUM Administrator
Tony Depledge – ALBUM Policy Advisor
Claire Rawlinson (Marketing Bees) – Marketing Support
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Claire Rawlinson, ALBUM Marketing Support
[email protected]