A top executive at the owner of troubled train operator Southern is to become the boss of High Speed 1, the line running from London St Pancras through Kent to the Channel Tunnel.

Former Govia Thameslink chief operating officer Dyan Crowther is expected to formally become chief executive of HS1 in January, replacing Nicola Shaw, who left in May.

Ms Crowther brings 30 years experience in the sector to her new job, including senior roles at Network Rail, British Rail and Railtrack.

Her employer Govia has been locked in a dispute with workers at Southern this year, with 14 days of strike action planned over the next three months over pay and the role of guards.

Ms Crowther said: “I am delighted to be taking on this role.

“High Speed 1 is the UK’s only high speed line which has transformed rail travel through Kent and into the continent.

“Its growth and performance in the last nine years are testament to its success and I look forward to leading the business and helping continue this success for customers and passengers alike.”

HS1 launched in 2007 after a £5.8 billion investment to build the 68-mile line.

Rob Holden, chairman and acting chief executive of HS1 Ltd, said: “As someone who joined the rail industry as a graduate, Dyan’s experience made her an extremely strong candidate.

“She has a strategic understanding of HS1 as a business and a vision to take it forward. We are looking forward to welcoming her here properly at the start of our tenth anniversary year.”