HS2 chief operating Richard Robinson has resigned after a year in the role.
The former Aecom chief executive of civil infrastructure in Europe, Middle East, India and Africa is understood to have secured a new role at a private company.
- HS2 faces delay of up to five years as budget hits £88bn
- Government launches independent review of HS2
The news of his departure comes as HS2 undergoes an independent review by former Crossrail chairman Doug Oakervee and his deputy Lord Berkeley.
Meanwhile news emerged at the start of this month that the project could be delayed by up to five years and the budget has ballooned to £88bn.
Robinson oversaw the completion of more than 150 land acquisitions in July and August alone, while HS2 last week formally signed a £1bn contract with a joint venture of Balfour Beatty, Vinci and Systra to build Old Oak Common station.
HS2 chief executive Mark Thurston said: “We can confirm that chief operating officer Richard Robinson has decided to leave HS2 Ltd to take up a new senior role in the private sector.
“We wish him every success in his new position.”
A spokesperson for HS2 said the organisation would ensure there was interim cover for Robinson following his departure at the end of this month, before a successor was appointed.
