Boris Johnson, Mayor of London

Why is he on the list?

Leads arguably the premier urban transport authority in Europe.

What kind of year has he had?

A huge year. Transport for London unveiled plans for the world’s first citywide contactless bankcard EMV payment system; the new version of the Routemaster was launched; and Johnson’s idea for a Thames estuary airport began to gain ground. Olympic plans are ahead of schedule and promise to leave a lasting legacy on demand management and communication systems as well as infrastructure.

What’s coming up in 2012?

The chance for London to show the quality of its transport, including the launch of the cross-Thames cable car and new EMV system. But what impact will savage staff cuts have?