Tim Coles

Tim Coles was appointed Group CIO of Hitachi Rail in May 2019. He is responsible for driving the IT digital transformation of the rail business and enhancing its global IT and Cyber Security capabilities. In 2022, Tim took on two additional responsibilities as European Regional CIO and Deputy CIO for Hitachi Ltd.

Before joining Hitachi Rail, he was Group CIO at Premier Farnell, an electrical distribution company, for 3 years and Head of IT/Group CIO at JCB, a construction company, for 10 years. He standardized processes, systems, and IT and cybersecurity functions globally at these two companies and introduced many new digital IT and IoT solutions, such as JCBLiveLink. He also worked in the automotive industry for 8 years, holding various roles at the Volkswagen Group, such as Head of IT for Cosworth Technology and Head of Security for VW UK.

At Hitachi Rail, Tim manages over 400 IT professionals worldwide who help deliver innovative and reliable rail solutions to customers. Tim is enthusiastic about using technology to create value for business and society, and he promotes a culture of collaboration, agility, and excellence in his organization.

Tim started his career as a mechanical and production design engineer in the automotive industry, then switched to IT and security while working for the UK government at HMGCC.