Unite calls for ‘fresh approach’ at FirstGroup as Tim O’Toole’s ‘disastrous’ tenure ends

The UK’s largest union, Unite described Tim O’Toole’s tenure as chief executive at FirstGroup as a ‘disaster of managed decline’, following his resignation today after the company posted losses of £327 million.

Calling for a fresh approach and fresh leadership that invests in FirstGroup staff, Unite national officer Bobby Morton said: “Tim O’Toole’s time as FirstGroup chief executive was nothing short of a disaster marked by bus depot closures, attacks to workers’ terms and conditions, and cuts that went too close to the bone.

“His legacy is one of managed decline and a company that is ill-equipped to cope with the everyday pressures a firm the size of FirstGroup should be able to take in its stride.

“As Tim O’Toole walks away and the takeover vultures circle, it is vital that the board gets the company back on track by appointing fresh leadership that invests in staff and values the workforce.”