Leila will assume the role of interim CEO at Keolis Downer (KD) on March 17, based in Melbourne. She will take over from current CEO Julien Dehornoy, who will be pursuing a new international career opportunity after five years with Keolis Downer, including his prior role as CEO of Yarra Trams, the Melbourne Tram network operator.

Leila is a well-known figure in the Australian transport sector, having been instrumental in the establishment of Keolis Downer in 2009 with the award of the Yarra Trams franchise. She has been with the Keolis Group for over 15 years, leading key international projects and commercial development across various countries, including Australia. Leila also served as Chair of the Keolis Downer Board for five years until 2022.

Currently, she is a non-executive board director in the UK’s transport sector.

Leila will relocate to Melbourne to serve as interim CEO until a permanent successor is appointed.

Laurence Broseta, Keolis International CEO and Chair of the Keolis Downer Board, commented:

“We are thrilled to welcome Leila back as interim CEO of Keolis Downer. Her leadership and strategic insight will be invaluable to the company. Keolis Downer remains dedicated to expanding its presence in Australia, and Leila will play a crucial role in shaping the right strategy, partnerships, and organizational structure to drive this growth.

“I would also like to extend my gratitude to Julien for his outstanding leadership over the past five years; his contributions have had a lasting impact on our organization, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

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