The Coach Travel Group Welcomes Tom Stables’ Appointment as CPT President

Tom Stables, Non-Executive Director and founding CEO of The Coach Travel Group, will become President of the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) in January 2027.

The Coach Travel Group welcomes Tom Stables’ appointment as the next President of the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT), recognising his contribution to the industry and the importance of a strong collective voice for coach operators.

Tom established The Coach Travel Group between 2024 and 2026, bringing together independent operators with shared ambitions while retaining the local knowledge and customer relationships that make each business distinctive. Following a recent role change, he now supports the Group as a Non-Executive Director.

His appointment brings this experience of collaboration to an ambassadorial role championing bus and coach businesses across the country. For The Coach Travel Group and its operators, effective industry representation helps ensure that the services they deliver, the communities they support and the challenges they face are understood.

CPT represents more than 800 members and recently established Coach UK as a dedicated voice for coach operators. Tom’s presidency comes at an important time for strengthening recognition of the sector and supporting the conditions businesses need to invest and develop.

With 25 years’ experience in transport, Tom brings an understanding of both national businesses and independent operators. Before establishing The Coach Travel Group, he spent 13 years at National Express, progressing to UK Chief Executive, and previously held senior positions at FirstGroup and First Great Western.

Speaking about his appointment, Tom said:

“It’s a privilege to take on the presidency of the CPT. I’m looking forward to speaking up for bus and coach operators across the country- ranging from national names to entrepreneurial local businesses.

“Buses and coaches provide the backbone of public transport across the country, as well as supporting communities with vital local services. CPT fills a vital role in fighting our corner and in standing up for members’ interests.”

Graham Vidler, Chief Executive of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, said:

“Tom is a terrific champion for the bus and coach sector. He brings huge experience, judgement and understanding of the industry and I’m pleased that he has agreed to become our next President.”

The Coach Travel Group congratulates Tom and looks forward to his contribution to championing the wider industry.

Tom will formally take office at CPT’s annual conference and dinner in London on 21 January 2027.