Ed Wills will take up the role on January 1, 2026, bringing extensive experience from senior positions across the Go-Ahead Group, including managing director roles at Go-Ahead Ireland and Brighton & Hove Buses.

Martin Dean, managing director of UK Regional Bus at Go-Ahead Group, said: "Ed is an outstanding leader with deep operational expertise and a strong commitment to innovation and customer service.

"His experience across the Group, both in the UK and Ireland, makes him the ideal person to lead Go South Coast into its next chapter.

"I'd also like to thank Ben for his leadership of Go South Coast over recent months at a difficult time for the company following Andrew's passing and once again pay tribute to Andrew whose contribution to the industry and the development of Go South Coast was truly remarkable."

Mr Wills succeeds Ben Murray, who served as interim managing director following the death of Andrew Wickham MBE in May 2025.

Mr Murray will return to his role as finance director at Go South Coast.

Mr Wills said: "It's a privilege to return to Go South Coast and lead such a talented team.