21 July 2021 at 12:00 (GMT) Download PDF
- Tim Zeisset and Massimo Vesentini also hired to lead carrier relations in DACH regions and Italy
- Appointments follow Trainline’s recent expansion through partnerships with Ouigo España and Avlo
LONDON, 21 July 2021: Trainline, the leading independent rail and coach travel platform, today announces Christopher Michau has been appointed as European Carrier and Supply Director, with responsibility for the continued growth of the company’s network of rail carrier partners. His appointment comes as the company integrates new entrants Avlo and Ouigo España into their platform and prepares to add further European carriers as rail markets liberalise in Europe.
Michau, who previously spent 18 years developing and managing relationships with the world’s leading hotel chains at Expedia, is based in Trainline’s Paris office and will lead Trainline’s carrier relations across Europe. Michau brings a wealth of experience in exploring new business models and finding creative ways to market and merchandise products that provide added value as a distribution partner.
Joining Michau’s team is Tim Zeisset who will lead on carrier relations for DACH regions, which account for over 100 million people, where he will focus on building existing relationships with partners and engaging with new entrants to the rail market. Having spent 15 years working for Deutsche Bahn, Zeisset brings deep and localised rail expertise.
The team is joined by Massimo Vesentini as Head of Supply for Italy. Vesentini will be primarily focussed on developing Trainline’s established relationships by exploring further opportunities with Italy’s two carriers, Trenitalia and Italo. Massimo joins from the Maccorp Group, which manages currency exchange and rail ticketing for Italian railway stations under the brand Agenzie365. His previous experience within the travel industry means he is in a strong position to grow relationships within this key market for Trainline.
As well as driving to bring more journey choice for Trainline’s app and website customers who seek the best value or fastest routes, the Carrier and Supply team will explore opportunities to support carrier partners and rail industry recovery, via its IT Carrier Solutions service which provides white-label technology products, and via its Distribution Solutions service, both offered through Trainline Partner Solutions.
The investment in our Carrier and Supply team is part of our commitment to developing the Trainline business in Europe; growing the relationships with our carriers sits at the heart of Trainline’s international growth strategy.
We recognise the importance of working collaboratively with our partners in order to capitalise on joint business and growth opportunities, which in turn will stimulate demand, drive a modal shift away from air and road, and support the recovery of rail in Europe.
Champa Magesh
President, Trainline Partner Solutions