Hyde quits East Coast Railway to launch own PR consultancy
After 12 years working for east Coat Railway, PR man Alan Hyde is heading off on a new journey with the launch of his own consultancy.
Hyde was one of the longest-serving communications chiefs in the privatised railway. He joined train operator GNER in early 1998, helping to shape a positive reputation despite two rail disasters (Hatfield and Great Heck) and prolonged contractual uncertainty. At GNER, he won several national awards, including Britain's Best PR Campaign and the CIPR Awards' Best In-House PR Team in Britain prize.
He undertook a similar role on transfer to National Express East Coast and was also appointed as National Express's first UK Head of Public Affairs, with responsibility for its UK rail, coach and bus interests.
Prior to joining the railways Hyde worked for an airline, in local government and in agency PR.
He said: "After 12 fantastic years, five Managing Directors and three different owners in the last three years, it was time to move on to pursue other career opportunities. My consultancy has got off to a great start, offering strategic counsel and high quality tactical work."