Andy Byford New York City Transit President to be awarded 2019 British Leadership Award

NEW YORK, NY – St. George’s Society of New York in partnership with the UK’s Department for International Trade has announced that Andy Byford will receive the 2019 British Leadership Award at the ninth annual British Bash at Edison Ballroom in New York City on Wednesday 4th December 2019. The award recognizes his contribution to the New York City community and his achievements in leadership and innovation.

A seasoned and highly regarded transportation professional, Byford was appointed President of New York City Transit (NYCT)—the largest transit agency in North America—in January 2018. Byford’s career spans three decades across three continents. Prior to joining NYCT, he was Chief Executive Officer of the Toronto Transit Commission, the third largest transit system in North America, where he is credited with initiating their award-winning modernization program. He served as Chief Operating Officer of Australia's largest transit system in Sydney from 2009 to 2011 and has also held prominent positions with the main line UK railway system as well as the London Underground.

“We are thrilled to honor Andy at the 2019 British Bash,” said Executive Director, Anna Titley. “Not only has he set the standard for innovation in the global transportation community, but he is leading one of the oldest and largest systems in the world into the next chapter of modern public transit. In only a short time, he has demonstrated his passion and dedication to the local community. He truly cares about New York City and its citizens.”

“I am humbled and honored to receive this award which I dedicate to the men and women of New York City Transit. I have been in public service for 30 years this year, and it is a privilege now to lead this team and to serve the great city of New York,” said Byford.

He will be honored alongside England rugby legend Martin Johnson CBE who will receive the Anglo-American Cultural Award.

As one of St. George’s Society’s largest fundraising events of the year, the gala is expected to welcome more than 300 people including business leaders, honored guests and supporters of the charity. Attendees will enjoy an evening of live music, dining, dancing, a charity auction and recognition of the night’s honorees. Sponsors include Rugby United New York and Wetherby-Pembridge School New York.

Proceeds from the event support St. George’s Society’s charitable programs which focus on protecting the elderly at risk of homelessness, enabling low-income students to complete their college education and supporting families affected by pediatric cancer traveling to New York for treatment.

Tickets for the British Bash start from $295 and are on sale now at www.stgeorgessociety.org/events/british-bash-2019. 

For event inquiries, please contact Eliane Abou-Assi at eliane@stgeorgessociety.org or 212-682-6110. 

Media Contact:
Hastings Hill
+1.212.682.6110
hastings@stgeorgessociety.org

About St. George’s Society of New York

St. George’s Society of New York is a charity dedicated to enriching the quality of life for people in need. Founded in 1770, the Society has aided thousands of disadvantaged people in New York, from protecting the elderly on the brink of homelessness to enabling low-income students complete their college education. Fueled by a passionate membership community, St. George’s Society creates a social outlet that cultivates a sense of belonging and celebrates its uniquely British roots, all while supporting its charitable mission. The Society’s vibrant network of influential people and partnerships with key organizations in the British community make it the preeminent Anglo-American philanthropic and social group in the tristate area. www.stgeorgessociety.org

About the UK’s Department for International Trade

The UK’s Department for International Trade (DIT) has overall responsibility for promoting UK trade across the world and attracting foreign investment to its economy. DIT is a specialized government body with responsibility for negotiating international trade policy and supporting business as well as delivering an outward-looking trade diplomacy strategy.