Grinsty Rail is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Ferris as Managing Director, effective Monday 13 April 2026. 

Following a decision by Mike Thompson to take a less active role in the business, the Board has reviewed the structure of the senior management team to ensure the company is well positioned for continued growth. With increasing operational demands and potential future acquisitions, the appointment of a Managing Director will provide added leadership capacity across the Group. 

Paul Ferris joins Grinsty Rail with more than 25 years of senior leadership experience within the rail industry, having held roles with organisations including Alstom, Knorr Bremse, SPX Rail Systems, and Smith Brothers & Webb, as well as experience in automotive and other manufacturing sectors. 

Paul is a Chartered Mechanical Engineer, a member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, and a Chartered Manager (CMgr & FCMI). He will report directly to the Chairman and will take responsibility for supporting Grinsty Rail, Monitran, Design International Limited, and any future businesses that may be acquired by the Group. 

Matthew Perry-Parker will continue in the role of Financial Director which will allow him to fully concentrate on the Group’s financial leadership, together with the associated commercial/legal responsibilities, ensuring continued strength and consistency across all financial operations. The Board has expressed its sincere thanks to Matthew for his significant contribution over recent years while successfully fulfilling both roles. 

The Board believes this leadership change will support the Group’s long-term strategy and enable the development of a robust management structure to drive future growth. 

Grinsty Rail welcomes Paul Ferris to the business and looks forward to his contribution during this next phase of development.