Design and engineering consultancy Atkins has announced the appointment of a new managing director of its Rail business.

David Tonkin, who joined the company in 2005 as Atkins Rail’s finance director, will assume his new role with effect from 1 July, when chief operating officer and acting managing director of Rail
Norman Schunter retires.

Tonkin has previously held senior financial and management roles with Hanson Plc, including a period as Chief Operating Officer for Hanson Singapore and Malaysia. His career to date has seen him work in complex multi-site organisations across various industry sectors, including brewing and leisure, office services, financial services and the aggregates industry.

Keith Clarke, Atkins’ chief executive, says: “Since joining Atkins a year ago David has played a major role in the restructuring of the rail business to ensure it is in good shape for growth both now, and in the future. We’re confident he is the right person to continue taking this forward as managing director.”

“We are also tremendously grateful to Norman Schunter for his excellent work as acting head of Atkins Rail in recent months, and of course for his tireless commitment and many successes in a distinguished career with Atkins over 36 years.”