Stagecoach Group plc has announced the appointment of Paul Thomas as a new managing director of its East Scotland operations. Paul Thomas, who has more than 30 years' experience in the bus industry, will take up his new post from July 10, 2017. He will take on responsibility for Stagecoach East Scotland which has a fleet of over 500 buses and employs more than 1,300 staff, carrying 35 million passengers a year.Paul Thomas began his career as an apprentice mechanic in 1985, and worked his way into managerial posts before reaching managing director level. Most recently, Paul has been Managing Director, UK Bus for National Express, with responsibility for their National Express West Midlands and Xplore Dundee bus companies, along with the Midland Metro tram operation.