Shell's Malcolm Brinded moves to Network Rail board

Network Rail appointed a new non-executive director today under moves to reshape its board.

Malcolm Brinded, Royal Dutch Shell's executive director, joined NR with his appointment to be confirmed at next year's annual meeting.

NR chairman Rick Haythornthwaite said: "My priority when joining Network Rail was to reshape the non-executive element of the board. Building on the success of the current and former non-executives, this reflects the change agenda on which the company is now embarked.

"Malcolm Brinded will play a vital role in Network Rail's corporate governance. His many years of experience at a senior level at one of the world's biggest companies will be a great asset to Network Rail's board.

"The appointment is one of the final elements of my task to reshape the board. It is now well-equipped to support the company as it embarks on a new phase of its evolution - a phase that will see a change of approach and direction as it works to deliver a better, less costly railway."

Virgin Atlantic also made a boardroom move, announcing the appointment of Julie Southern to the newly created board position of chief commercial officer.

The firm said Southern was instrumental as chief financial officer in reshaping the business to reduce costs during the downturn. Her focus will be on driving the airline's recovery.

Chief executive Steve Ridgway said: "This promotion and change of emphasis for Julie will enable Virgin Atlantic to change gear in its recovery from recession.

"Julie's expertise has enabled the business to steer a course through some very difficult times but now we can utilise her strengths at the front end of the business, driving new relationships, revenues and ultimately our growth strategy."