This move forms part of the company’s recent devolution drive to increase its responsiveness to customers at a local level by creating the first independent Wales route in railway history.

Leading a 1400 strong team, Mark will be overseeing the management and operation of the railway throughout Wales and the English border counties from headquarters in Cardiff.

Mark will start his role once the operation of the new route goes live this October.

Robin Gisby, managing director, Network Operations, Network Rail said: “Network Rail has saved money and transformed the railway through central control but to make further improvements in Wales we now need to increase responsiveness at a local level.

“The Wales route managing director will, in effect, be running their own infrastructure railway business with significant annual turnover and resources. This represents a significant change of emphasis. Mark’s extensive local experience will help the company forge stronger ties with our customers and the Welsh Government that are vital to a robust, high-performing and progressive railway.”

Commenting on his appointment, Mark said: “We have worked hard over the last six years to transform the railway in Wales to become one of the most punctual networks in Britain. My priority is to build on that and to create a strong organisation, which is closer to our customers and be in a better position to deliver even more improvements to passengers and freight users in Wales”.

Mark will be responsible for the day-to-day operation, maintenance and renewal of Network Rail’s infrastructure and for driving business relationships with Network Rail’s customers, including the Welsh Government, Arriva Trains Wales, First Great Western and DB Schenker.

Before this appointment, Mark was route director for the Western Route (which included Wales) and gained his extensive experience from previous roles in managing performance, strategic development and railway operations.