Tim O'Toole may return to run Tube Lines

London Underground's former managing Director has had preliminary discussions with Tube Lines about possibly becoming the contractor's chief exec. This could be interesting as O'Toole strongly criticised Tube Lines while he was in office. Perhaps it needs someone like him to help the current acrimonious disputes between LU & Tube Lines.


Tube Lines hasn't had a permanent chief executive since February 12, when Dean Finch resigned & became chief executive of National Express. Tube Lines, which works on the Jubilee, Northern and Piccadilly lines, has been the sole surviving contractor since July 2007 when Metronet went into administration. Tim O'Toole left the London Underground in April last year and returned to Philadelphia to spend more time with his family.

David Begg, Tube Lines' chairman, says he had the highest regard for Tim O'Toole's reputation. But added: "I haven't offered Tim O'Toole a contract, so I cannot say whether or not Tim O'Toole is coming."

However according to the Evening Standard a Tube Lines spokeswoman said: "I can confirm that we are in contractual negotiations with Tim O'Toole over the chief executive's job. We are hoping to conclude these discussions soon."

The FT said that Boris Johnson declined to comment, although they believe that Tim O'Toole has also held discussions with him.