Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton has informed employees that the time has come for her to begin a new chapter, and she will complete her term as CEO, which concludes in April 2027.
Queensland Rail Chair Andrew Wellington thanked and congratulated Ms Stapleton on her seven and a half years at Queensland Rail.
Mr Wellington said during her time with Queensland Rail she had served with distinction - first as CFO for two and a half years, and then as CEO.
"Kat has overseen many significant initiatives at Queensland Rail, all the while maintaining her enthusiasm and professionalism as she dealt with the many challenges that running a rail business offers up every day," Mr Wellington said.
"Whether it was the implementation of permanent 50 cent fares, record patronage growth, European Train Control System for passenger services, building new accessible stations, or recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic, cyclones, or floods and negotiating new enterprise agreements - Kat has led from the front.
"Kat has ensured we are well-placed to build upon recent successes as we prepare for significant change and integration of major projects and prepare for the Olympic and Paralympic Games and beyond.
"Personally, it has been a pleasure to deal with Kat, and I am certain that whatever she chooses to do next, she will do so with the same vigour, dedication and drive for success that she's shown while at Queensland Rail."
Ms Stapleton said leading Queensland Rail had been a great privilege and that she is committed to supporting a smooth and orderly transition to a new leader.
"As I reflect on my time here, what stands out most is the people. It has been a genuine privilege to work alongside all those at Queensland Rail as we've embraced opportunities, navigated challenges and achieved so much together," Ms Stapleton said.
"Whether responding to floods, cyclones, and other challenges, delivering major projects, or simply showing up every day to keep Queensland moving, our people consistently demonstrate resilience, care and an unwavering commitment to our customers - a 'spirit' I have always admired and never taken for granted."
The Queensland Rail Board will commence a recruitment process to find a replacement in due course.
