Former easyJet executive switches planes for trains in new role to head-up engineering transformation at Northern

The former easyJet executive, who has also held a number of senior roles at TUI Group, will be responsible for driving forward a multi-million pound change programme.

That programme will focus on enhancing ways of working and processes, new technologies and improvements to facilities.

Khatri, who grew up in Blackpool and was a student at King Edward VII School in Lytham (now AKS Lytham), studied chemistry at The University of Manchester.

Jack Commandeur, engineering director at Northern, said: “John is a great addition to our engineering team.

“John’s experience in business change and project management is first rate and I look forward to him bringing his clear passion and enthusiasm for programme delivery to Northern.”

John Khatri, head of engineering transformation delivery at Northern, said: “I’m delighted to have joined Northern at what is a very exciting stage of their transformation journey.

“Their ambition and commitment to engineering excellence is well known and I look forward to working with colleagues across Northern to improve the service we provide to our customers.”

Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK, with nearly 2,500 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.

Northern’s new timetable came into effect in December 2022 and all customers, especially those who have made regular journeys on specific train times, are advised to use the new 'Check My Timetable' feature on Northern’s website to see changes specific to their local station.