Northern has appointed a new head of retail, who wants to make buying a train ticket as easy as possible.

Nick Clarke will take up the role in April and will be responsible for all elements involved in the ticket buying experience.

Nick replaces Jason Wade, who became the new regional director for the North East last month.

Nick joins from Arriva UK Trains, where he was head of commercial and has experience also at Grand Central, where he was head of revenue.

“This is a key role providing strategic leadership and direction for all retail activity across the organisation.

“We need to make buying a ticket as easy as it’s possible to be – and Nick has the experience and expertise to make that happen.

“Nick will also represent Northern at wider industry discussions on the development of longer-term strategic retailing opportunities for the rail industry.”

Mark Powles, commercial and customer director at Northern

As someone who has worked in the rail industry for a long time, I know the reputation Northern has as an industry leader when it comes to retail and revenue protection.

“As such, I’m thrilled to be joining such a committed team and taking on that mantle to ensure we remain ahead of the pack, providing the best possible service to our customers and reducing ticketless travel on the network.”

Nick Clarke