Richard Robinson joined HS2 just over a year ago from consultant AECOM where he had been chief executive for civil infrastructure across Europe, the Middle East, India and Africa.

He is presently working on restricted duties before formally leaving at the end of this month.

HS2 said an interim COO would be appointed internally while his replacement is found.

Robinson leaves at a challenging time for HS2 as the future of the whole project hangs in the balance awaiting the outcome of transport veteran Doug Oakervee’s review into whether or how Europe’s largest infrastructure project should proceed.

This is expected to be concluded by the end of this month or early in November with recommendations then sent to senior ministers for a final decision on the project.

Mark Thurston, CEO of HS2 Ltd, said: “We can confirm that Chief Operating Officer Richard Robinson has decided to leave HS2 Ltd to take up a new senior role in the private sector.

“We wish him every success in his new position.”