Turning to ashes

Can it be long before ATOC members run out of patience with their Chief Executive Michael Roberts?

Aside from his love for producing briefing papers, Roberts' sole achievement to-date appears to be in the field of TV interviews.

Rather than up his game, he has bravely decided to shoot the messenger - dispensing with the services of Communications Director, Ed Funnell!

ATOC Board members, who only heard about Funnell's departure via the grapevine, are absolutely furious.

Despite similar anger amongst TOC PRs and transport hacks there is one piece of good news!

Roberts' remains a Director of the Carbon Trust.

What better background for a man whose railway career is in danger of being fossilised?

UPDATE: This from The Master...

It's not just his TV appearances either.

Roberts rule at ATOC has coincided with it hemorrhaging experienced and respected staff who have either jumped or been pushed.

These departures have not gone unnoticed by stakeholders or the media.

But they have seriously undermined the credibility of an organisation whose morale has been shot to pieces.

Ed Funnell was a seasoned PR man who was respected and liked by all who dealt with him.

Words which may not be heard about his former boss...

UPDATE: This from ATOC...

I am writing to let you know that Edward Funnell left ATOC last week, as one of a number of wider changes we have been making to the organisation since April last year to reflect the priorities of the Board and new senior executive team.

Edward has made a major contribution as Director of Communications over the past six and half years in defending the industry's reputation and promoting the interests of train operating companies. We wish him every success with his future career.

We are now looking to recruit a permanent successor for this important post.I have appointed Paul Atkinson, a communications professional with over 20 years' experience, as interim Director of External Affairs, with immediate effect and I know he will want touch base with you and other key contacts in the near future.

Michael Roberts
Chief Executive, ATOC

Please pass on to your colleagues as you see appropriate.