2/15/2013

Amtrak Article
Amtrak appoints chief of customer service, GM of state-supported services

Amtrak has named Thomas Hall chief of customer services and Jay Commer, general manager of state-supported services.

Hall will be in charge of ensuring Amtrak service meets customers' needs and expectations. He will oversee system operations functions, including the Consolidated National Operations Center, crew management services, intermodal connectivity, administration of special trains and food and beverage services, Amtrak officials said in a prepared statement.

Hall has served Amtrak since 1980, most recently as chief of food and beverage service. Previously, he served in customer service and operations roles.

Commer will be responsible for service to Amtrak state partners and their customers, and for meeting financial and other performance goals and targets. The position is critical to supporting the railroad's strategic plan, Amtrak officials said.

Commer joined Amtrak in 1987 as a locomotive engineer. Most recently, he was general superintendent of the Pacific Division, where he was responsible for financial, operational, service, safety and business goals.

Commer previously served as principal officer of state contracts, overseeing agreements with the Washington and Oregon departments of transportation, general manager for the Capitol Corridor product line and superintendent of commuter operations for Caltrain.