Simon Wright OBE, currently project development director at Network Rail, has accepted the job to become Crossrail’s new programme director this summer.

Wright, who is presently leading the programme for the multi-billion pound redevelopment of Euston station in collaboration with HS2, joins a growing list of senior executives to leave the railway infrastructure provider.

The exodus started when Network Rail chief executive Sir David Higgins stood down to lead the HS2 project at the start of this year.

He was followed by Network Rail’s managing director of infrastructure projects Simon Kirby, who will join HS2 as CEO for the project’s construction phase.

Network Rail infrastructure’s finance boss David McLoughlin also handed in his notice at the start of the year to run contractor Spencer Rail in July.

Wright revealed he is quitting Network Rail after around 14 months in the job as project development director.

Before that he was director of infrastructure and utilities with the Olympic Delivery Authority.

Andrew Wolstenholme, Crossrail chief executive said: “Simon Wright is an outstanding candidate who successfully led the delivery and commissioning of the infrastructure for the London Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“Crossrail will benefit enormously from his knowledge and expertise.

“The Crossrail programme is now over halfway to completion with the end of major civils in sight and a team fully engaged on delivering stations fit-out and the transition to an operational railway.

“Simon will lead the delivery team during this important second half as we move closer to realising this critically important project for London and the UK.”