ON THE MOVE

I’m a few weeks into my new role as operations manager. I look after the North area, overseeing drivers and the driver management team – ensuring that we have the correct and competent workforce to operate the railway safely for everyone. It has been quite an intense first few weeks, but it’s been brilliant. Everyone is extremely knowledgeable and very welcoming.

My early career was in the water industry. I was at Thames Water for more than eight years. Like London Overground, it was a high-profile business that delivered a key public service but faced many complex challenges.

Crossing over to a new industry has been valuable. I joined ARL in 2023 as industry partnerships manager, so my new role combines the commercial skills I gained here with my experience from the water industry. That makes me a more rounded leader – I enjoy helping people build their careers and making sure they’ve got what they need to succeed. I know from my own experience that there are opportunities for everyone at ARL, and they have a good record of promoting from within.

I used to think the railway wasn’t that complicated. But I’ve learned how many people are involved in running it successfully – and the energy colleagues put into getting it right for customers. It’s frontline teams who are often closest to the key issues, and who know how to fix them. It’s part of my role to empower them to do this.

My golden retriever, Albie, and I like to go for long walks. It’s a good way to unwind. I also enjoy painting. I started during the pandemic and, though I’m not very good at it, it’s a form of meditation. Taking downtime and having some mindfulness in your life really improves your resilience.