Aurizon today announced the departure of Group Executive Michael Riches from Aurizon.
Mr Riches is the Group Executive responsible for the Aurizon Network business which provides, maintains and manages access to the Central Queensland Coal Network (CQCN) and associated rail infrastructure.
He has resigned from Aurizon after two and a half years to pursue other career opportunities.
“Michael and his team have worked extremely hard to negotiate and build a more commercial and sustainable UT5 access agreement to support the continued development of the Central Queensland coal supply chain,” Managing Director & CEO Mr Andrew Harding said.
“Late last month (November 25) the Queensland Competition Authority released its Final Decision indicating it would approve the UT5 Draft Amending Access Undertaking subject to minor amendments.
“This is the culmination of more than two years work and the agreement reached with our customers is ground breaking and one of the first of its kind in Australia.”
Mr Harding said a recruitment process for the role would be undertaken and in the interim the current Head of Network Asset Management Jason Livingston would act in the role.
“Jason is a direct report to Michael and a key member of his management team,” he said.
“He has extensive knowledge of our Network business and his appointment will allow for a seamless transition to ensure we get on with the job of delivering the benefits of the new UT5 Agreement for our customers and the economy.”