Smith led the GBP 1bn (USD 1.5bn) East London Line extension project as well as the development, launch and operation of London Overground and management of its operating concession, Crossrail stated.
"Howard Smith has significant and diverse railway experience having overseen the creation of London Overground and worked on DLR, national rail, London Underground and the successful 2012 Games," said Andrew Wolstenholme, Crossrail chief executive. "His knowledge of railway operations and the delivery of high-quality rail services in London and the southeast is unrivalled."