Tomáš Tóth Strengthens Czech Influence in CER Governance

Czech Railway Authority (Správa železnic) begins a new chapter under the leadership of Tomáš Tóth, who has quickly extended his influence beyond the Czech Republic. The former head of ČD Cargo now strengthens the country’s position in Brussels as Vice-Chair of the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER).

New CEO, Broader European Role

As previously reported, Správa železnic appointed Tomáš Tóth as Director General effective 1 February 2026. The decision was adopted unanimously by the newly restructured supervisory board at its first meeting under Chairman Martin Kolovratník.

Tóth’s appointment at national level has been swiftly followed by a significant European role. He has taken up the position of Vice-Chair of CER, the key Brussels-based association representing Europe’s railway undertakings and infrastructure managers.

CER Leadership for 2026–2027

The CER General Assembly elected a new Management Committee for the 2026–2027 term. The body is chaired by Alan Beroud, CEO of PKP Group.

The new board assumed office in January 2026 for a two-year mandate, with four Vice-Chairs supporting the presidency. The Czech Republic is now represented in this structure by Tóth, replacing former infrastructure chief Jiří Svoboda.

The election took place following the 76th CER General Assembly held earlier in Gdańsk, where Europe’s leading railway executives voted on the composition of the governing body.

Strengthening Czech Influence in Brussels

Tóth’s elevation to CER Vice-Chair significantly reinforces Czech representation within European rail policymaking circles. CER plays a central role in shaping EU transport legislation, infrastructure financing frameworks and cross-border interoperability strategies.

At a time when discussions on sustainable mobility, infrastructure investment and rail competitiveness are intensifying at EU level, having national infrastructure leadership embedded in CER governance provides strategic leverage.

Professional Background

Born in 1981 in Pardubice, Tomáš Tóth graduated in management, marketing and logistics from the University of Pardubice. He held senior roles within the Czech Railways Group and served as Executive Director of ČD Cargo from 2018 to 2025, while simultaneously acting as Chairman of the Board between 2020 and 2025.

His career combines operational freight expertise with corporate leadership experience — a profile increasingly relevant in European rail governance debates.