Simon Kirby leaves HS2 after two-and-a-half years in order to join motor giant Rolls-Royce as chief operating officer.

David Higgins, chairman of HS2, said: “While naturally we will miss [Simon’s] experience and leadership, I also recognise that he is joining a truly great, global company in an industry in which he has previously worked.

“…Simon has used his vast experience to recruit and shape a world-class team, which over the coming years and decades will turn HS2 into a reality that will be of lasting benefit to this country.

“That team will continue that process as we start and complete the process of finding Simon’s successor.”

Simon previously served in the manufacturing industry as managing director of defence and aerospace specialist BAE Systems.

“HS2 is not just a highly ambitious project, but also one which will leave a lasting legacy for Britain,” Simon explained.

“It has been, therefore, a huge honour to have been its chief executive and to have been involved in creating a leadership team made up of the best talents from this country and elsewhere.

“I have absolute confidence in their ability to deliver the project and, in doing so, to help transform the way we do things in this country.”

Meanwhile, David also took the announcement as an opportunity to reveal the appointment of a new non-executive director.

Mel Ewell joins from infrastructure specialist Amey, where he served as chief executive officer until his retirement in March 2016.

David added: “[Mel’s] great experience in the construction industry speaks for itself, as does the huge respect in which he is held.

“As such he will be a great asset to the board’s deliberations as we move to the point of construction.”

Last month, the government announced that it had updated the safeguarding directions for planning authorities situated along the proposed HS2 route.