Europe’s Rail Appoints Giorgio Travaini as New Executive Director

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Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking (EU-Rail) is delighted to announce the appointment of Giorgio Travaini as its new Executive Director. Giorgio Travaini, with an impressive 18-year career in the transportation industry and previous roles as the interim and acting Executive Director of EU-Rail, brings invaluable expertise to his new position.

Giorgio has held various significant leadership positions throughout his career, demonstrating his capability to manage the intricacies of the rail sector effectively. His deep knowledge of EU-Rail’s inner workings equips him to lead the organization towards achieving its strategic goals and enhancing cooperation throughout Europe.

As Executive Director, Giorgio will oversee the management of EU-Rail, develop stakeholder relationships, and promote initiatives that advance the implementation of innovative rail technologies. These innovations are crucial for achieving the goals of the Single European Rail Area, addressing transport challenges, and fulfilling the sustainability aims outlined in the European Green Deal and the Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy.

Magda Kopczyńska, Director-General for Mobility and Transport at the European Commission and Chair of Europe’s Rail’s Governing Board, expressed her confidence in Europe’s Rail under Giorgio’s leadership, saying: “Rail has the potential to greatly contribute to resolving many of Europe’s mobility challenges. First though, it must embrace innovation and digitalisation more emphatically. I know that Europe’s Rail will continue to advance rail in Europe, helping to ensure the competitiveness and efficiency that will see it pass the milestones set out in our Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy, and to take up its rightful
place in the EU’s transport network. Congratulations to Giorgio!”

Commenting on the appointment, Giorgio remarked: “I am deeply honoured to lead EU-Rail as Executive Director. The European rail sector stands at a pivotal juncture, with unprecedented opportunities to enhance mobility, mitigate carbon emissions, and foster economic growth. I am eager to work with our dedicated team and Members, driving EU-Rail towards focused R&I that can deliver upon a sustainable transport and mobility for our society, ensuring our efforts leave a lasting positive impact.”

As Europe progresses towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly future, prioritizing rail technology investment is essential. EU-Rail remains a key player in uniting the rail sector and the European Union in creating a reliable, efficient, and modern European railway network that supports the global competitiveness of the European rail industry through innovation.

Under Giorgio’s leadership, the Joint Undertaking will focus on executing EU-Rail’s Master Plan, positioning the European rail sector as a leader in technological innovation and sustainable practices.