Leading provider of intelligent train technology, Petards Rail, drives growth with the appointment of Simon Jones as Director of Business Development.
Simon brings with him over 20 years of sales experience in the technical security industry, including significant roles in managing complex projects and forming successful bid teams.
During his tenure at March Networks, and previously at Everbridge, Simon was instrumental in securing substantial new contracts and nurturing key client relationships. His extensive experience includes working on critical national infrastructure projects with the police and Thames Water.
His study of European Politics and Language at Leeds University (majoring in French) will undoubtedly prove valuable as Petards Rail seeks to expand its footprint in the UK and EU markets.
A chance encounter between Simon and Raschid Abdullah, Executive Chairman of Petards, whilst on a train to meet with a client ultimately resulted in this exciting new role.
Petards Rail designs and delivers train technology to help companies within the rail industry maximise passenger safety, optimise train performance and meet ever increasing passenger and industry demands. Its technology includes forward facing and rear facing cameras, track debris cameras, an on-train camera/monitor system, Automatic Selective Door Operation, interior cameras and pantograph surveillance cameras. In addition, the company offers supporting services and a back-office software, eyeTrain Connect.
In the latter half of 2023, the company launched its PTeye solution which, incorporating the latest in AI-ready technology, was developed to prevent trap and drag incidents before train dispatch and, as a secondary safety measure, to detect drag.
Commenting on his appointment, Simon Jones said: “Petards Rail has a strong heritage and is a fantastic success story of a great UK manufacturer that I am excited to reinforce and build upon.
“There is enormous potential to expand our foothold in the UK and EU rail sector and I am thrilled that a chance meeting on a train has led to this fantastic opportunity to support the Petards Rail team by exploring new avenues for growth.”
Victoria Hodge, General Manager at Petards, said: “We are pleased to welcome Simon to our team. His wealth of experience and proven track record in driving business growth and forging strategic partnerships will be invaluable as we continue to expand our market presence. I am confident that Simon will play a crucial role in helping Petards Rail address the ever-changing industry challenges and achieve new heights.”
With decades of experience in the rail industry, Petards Rail has worked with organisations throughout the sector, from rolling stock companies to train operators and builders. From its base in Gateshead, UK the company operates globally and has over 60,000 LRUs (line-replaceable units) in service and more than 30,000 cameras in service.
Petards Rail is part of Petards Group, a developer of rail and traffic solutions that form the architecture of smart cities.
For more information visit: https://petardsrailsolutions.com/
