James Holley is the CEO of Traxtion, one of Africa’s largest private freight rail companies, driving rail reform and unlocking new freight corridors across the continent. Since 2016, he has led Traxtion’s transformation, pioneering private operator access and facilitating copper transport in the DRC. As chairperson of the Africa Railway Industry Association, James advocates for greater private-sector participation in South Africa’s rail industry.

He also represents Africa on the Rail Working Group’s Management Committee, promoting cross-border rail transactions under the Cape Town Convention.