After joining Yarra Trams / Keolis Downer in 2019, Julien was appointed CEO in 2020 and led the team operating the world’s largest tram network during the challenging health pandemic. In parallel with keeping trams operating continuously and the workforce safe throughout Covid, Julien was instrumental in the delivery of transformative projects which saw two thirds of the tram fleet overhauled, travel times improve and workforce incident rates halved. In addition to his extensive operational experience in Australia, Julien brings 20 years experience working in rail and the public transport industry across three continents and the private and public sectors.
Julien Dehornoy succeeds David Franks as CEO of Keolis Downer in Australia
20th November 2022
Julien Dehornoy has been appointed CEO of Keolis Downer and will take over on 9 January 2023 from David Franks, who is moving back to the UK after five years of successfully deepening the company footprint including new bus operations in Sydney and rail operations in Adelaide. With a strong focus on customer experience, supporting the local economy and sustainability, Julien’s priority will be to grow Keolis Downer’s footprint while bringing innovative service to passengers and supporting the energy transition throughout Australia.
“I would like to thank David Franks for his leadership over the eventful past five years. Despite challenges like the health pandemic and the energy crisis, our Australian activities have flourished with the addition of emblematic networks including Adelaide’s commuter rail and a 400-strong bus network in Sydney, many of which will be converted to e-buses. Julien Dehornoy is the ideal profile to build on Keolis Downer’s momentum by bringing his operational experience at Melbourne’s iconic Yarra Trams network as well as his in-depth knowledge of the Australian mobility market. I have no doubt that Julien’s track record in mass transit in the public and private sectors in Australia, France and the United States will also prove invaluable in enhancing the passenger experience and accelerating the energy transition down under.”
Marie-Ange Debon, Keolis Chairwoman and CEO
