Raul Toomsalu resigns as chairman of the management board of Operail

December 18 marks the last working day of Raul Toomsalu, the long-term chairman of the management board of the state-owned railway company AS Operail. Operail’s management board will temporarily operate with one member, as board member Merle Kurvits will continue in the office.

Raul Toomsalu managed Operail for almost 8 years. “We thank Raul for his commitment and contribution – under Raul’s leadership, the former cargo carrier EVR Cargo developed into Operail – a group of railway companies with a modern organisational culture and multiple lines of business,” said Kaido Saar, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the group.

“My journey in the railway sector has been long and exciting. I will continue to keep my fingers crossed for Operail and wish them every success in finding and implementing a new course,” said Raul Toomsalu.

Operail’s future strategy is currently under discussion in the government. “This marks the beginning of a new era for the company. So, a fresh look at management is particularly beneficial,” said Saar. Therefore, the search for a new manager for Operail will be based on the strategy, after it has been decided.

Until then, Operail’s management board will temporarily consist of a single member, with board member Merle Kurvits managing the company. Kurvits joined Operail in May 2022 as a member of the board of the wagon rental business, Operail’s subsidiary AS Operail Leasing. In November of the same year, she became a member of the management board of the parent company AS Operail.

“Merle Kurvits is very well acquainted with the operations of the company. During her year in office, she has presented herself as a good leader. Supported by a competent management team, she has shown the ability to lead the company during difficult times. Operail continues in good hands,” confirmed Saar.