Nigel Wood joins C9 Recruitment in Strategic Advisor position
Nigel Wood (pictured) has been named Strategic Advisor for Bus and Franchising by C9 Recruitment in the first of what the supplier says will be a series of such appointments.
He has more than 30 years’ leadership experiences in the regulated transport sector. Senior roles have included Area General Manager at Go-Ahead London, Managing Director of Go-Ahead Singapore, and most recently Chief Operating Officer at RATP Dev Transit London, now First Bus London.
After retiring from front-line operational duties earlier in 2025, Mr Wood has established himself as an independent transport consultant and advisor.
C9 Recruitment says that his decision to align with the supplier “reflects the strong respect he holds for the business and the culture fostered by Founder and Executive Chairman Sam Wharfe over many years.”
Mr Wood has earned a reputation for having a deep understanding of the Transport for London red bus market and beyond, and the delivery of operational and engineering excellence.
Mr Wharfe notes that the arrival of Mr Wood is significant for C9: “I will never forget a day some time ago when Nigel said to me: ‘One day I would love to be your mentor'. At the time, it felt like one of those passing comments where you smile and move on, but here we are in a full circle.
“Today, Nigel joins us as a Strategic Advisor. For me, this is not just another appointment. It is a surreal and proud moment that reflects how far we have come, and the calibre of people who now believe in what we are building.”
C9 adds that Mr Wood’s time in the bus industry “has been defined by a commitment to customer safety and satisfaction, combined with expertise in service delivery, people engagement, driver wellbeing, and clear communication.”
Speaking about his decision to work with the recruitment specialist, Mr Wood says: “I am pleased to join C9 Group as Strategic Advisor.
“My career has always been about safe, legal and compliant transport operations. C9 stands out for building trusted partnerships, thoroughly vetting drivers and engineers, and ensuring the right match for every client. With franchising and bus partnerships ahead, it is an exciting time to contribute.”
C9 notes that it is committed to building meaningful relationships with key figures across the industry “to ensure that the business remains at the forefront of operational engagement.”
Chief Executive Alfie Rae adds: “Nigel joining us as a Strategic Advisor marks an important milestone for C9. I have known him for many years and have always respected his experience and leadership.
“For him to now choose to work alongside us is a real privilege. I am honoured to welcome Nigel as our Strategic Advisor and excited about what we will achieve together.”
Commercial Director Daniel Lunn notes how strategic appointments are key to the future direction of C9 Recruitment and that the presence of people like Mr Wood will ensure that the supplier remains relevant, forward-thinking and focused.
“With franchising opening up new opportunities, we are already engaging with multiple stakeholders and exploring bid submissions. While we already have a wealth of expertise within the business, bringing in additional knowledge and perspective will be instrumental to our long-term success.”
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WRIGHTBUS JOINS EARLY EXHIBITOR LINE-UP AS MOMENTUM BUILDS FOR EURO BUS EXPO
With over 80 exhibitors already confirmed, the UK’s definitive coach and bus exhibition is set for another standout edition in November 2026.
Wrightbus has joined the growing list of vehicle suppliers, becoming the tenth to commit to the UK’s leading coach and bus exhibition. They join 87 exhibitors already signed up for the biennial event, returning to the NEC Birmingham on 3–5 November 2026.
The early exhibitor list is now live at eurobusxpo.com, giving visitors and prospective participants a first look at who’s already involved. Over 200 suppliers are ultimately expected to take part, reflecting the full breadth of the industry.
Confirmed technology exhibitors include eCoachManager, Envevo, INIT, Journeo, Mix Telematics, Navaho/Ocular, Road Tech, Ticketer, Timespace Technology, TransMach Systems, and Zenobé - showcasing solutions across ticketing, data, depot energy management, fleet optimisation and more. [/ultimate_heading]
The Euro Bus Expo Connect platform will also return, following a successful debut in 2024. Visitors and exhibitors will be able to use the tool to pre-book meetings, plan itineraries, and access the dedicated Connect Lounge for focused networking.
The Masterclass Theatre is also confirmed for 2026. The sessions will once again align with key industry priorities, building on a well-received 2024 programme that covered decarbonisation, compliance, accessibility, digital innovation, operational efficiency, and workforce development. All 2024 sessions are available on demand at eurobusxpo.com. [/ultimate_heading]
“The pace of bookings shows how much value the industry places on a show that delivers”, says Event Director Helen Conway. “From the latest vehicles and fleet tech to interiors, finance, and recruitment, Euro Bus Expo will once again reflect the full operational landscape.”
With over 7,000 professionals, 191 exhibitors, and 47 expert speakers delivering 28 free seminars in 2024, Euro Bus Expo continues to set the benchmark for sector events.
“Euro Bus Expo 2026 will offer the same clear focus and timing that consistently delivers for exhibitors and visitors” Helen adds.
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Says Graham Vidler, CEO of UK trade body the Confederation of Passenger Transport:
"CPT is proud to support Euro Bus Expo as the UK’s national exhibition for the coach and bus industry. Built in consultation with operators and suppliers, it reflects what works - a focused, biennial event, timed to suit the industry and trusted for its ability to deliver meaningful engagement.”[/ultimate_heading]
Bookings are now open for this year’s instalment, which takes place on 13 November 2025 at the Vox, Resorts World, Birmingham. Tickets are £205 + VAT and available from routeoneawards.com.[/ultimate_heading]
Stand bookings are open now. Suppliers interested in reaching decision-makers from across the coach, bus, and mini vehicle sector are encouraged to contact Commercial Manager Martin Laverton at [email protected].
Velociti announces integration of CitySwift into Omnibus suite
Velociti announces integration of CitySwift into Omnibus suite
Velociti Solutions has completed the integration of the CitySwift Evolve platform into its Omnibus software.
The timetabling module will be enhanced by the development, enabling operators to incorporate real-world data more quickly and efficiently, says the supplier.
The integration will enable faster, more accurate and adaptable timetable revisions, according to Velociti.
Omnibus users will now be able to import complete CitySwift-generated timetables. Features also include: ability to update, add, curtail or delete trips; regeneration of intermediate stop times and layover data; and enhanced integration with Velociti’s wider operational workflows.
“Our goal is to remove friction from the planning process and give operators the tools they need to work more efficiently,” says Nick Brookes, Chief Customer Officer at Velociti Solutions. “This integration delivers a faster and easier way to update timetables, powered by real-time data insights.
"It empowers operators to respond swiftly to actual service conditions and improve overall reliability.”