The Women in Bus and Coach “Spotlight On” initiative shines a light on the incredible contributions of women in all roles across the bus, coach, and community transport sector. From professional drivers and engineers to human resources experts and CEO’s, ‘Spotlight On’ will highlight the diverse talents and achievements of women in this dynamic industry.
Today we focus on and find out about:
Claire Hadley-King
Office Manager
Prospect Coaches
Tell us a little bit about your journey
I had always worked in Education, initially as Teaching Assistant supporting pupils with additional needs but I was also Office Admin, an Attendance Officer and Family Support Worker.
I married into the Prospect Coaches family business and was invited to come and join the team as Office Manager when my mother-in-law, Ros Hadley semi-retired two years ago.
How did you get to where you are today?
Sadly, my role has increased since Ros became unwell and passed away in June.
Our team has grown to four women in the bookings team now.
Did you experience any challenges getting to where you are today?
Adjusting to a different sector and finding my place here was a challenge initially. I would desk share with Ros and had nowhere to sit when she was at work.
If so, how did you overcome then?
I changed this by decorating and updating the offices. I moved the team into a new office upstairs where everyone had the same desk, and we now sit facing each other to promote equality and team building. This also supported our apprentice who sat on her own when she and I started. She went from wanting to leave to passing her course with distinction and has been a full-time staff member for 12 months now.
What do you like about the sector? What inspired you to get involved?
I feel like I lived it for 8 years before joining, attending events and getting to know industry colleagues. I find everyone friendly and supportive, it is a nice industry to be part of.
What did a typical day look like?
Every day is a bit different but, I usually start the day by walking our dog around the yard, saying hello to colleagues and checking they are ok. I chase payments, organise uniform, support our MD (Nathan) and GM (Richard), attend meetings, support my team and our current admin apprentice by ensuring expected tasks are completed.
What advice would you give to women thinking about a career in the bus and coach sector?
Go for it, there is nothing stopping anyone who has an interest in the sector.
What has been your bus or coach sector career highlight?
I am still very early into my coaching career but being included and accepted is a good feeling. Prospect has lost our founder, Geoff and Ros this year and the support I have received, aside from Nathan has been so nice. Being invited to be part of WiBC means a lot as well.
What three things could the Bus and Coach sector do to improvement the industry for Women?
Consideration with childcare and shifts around this.
Clean, accessible toileting facilities.
What changes have you seen since in the sector since you joined?
Period Poverty Initiative being introduced.
WiBC being introduced.
Anything else you would like to share?
There are some very strong, smart women in this industry who work very hard and bring a lot. It is good to see.
Thank you for sharing your story Claire you are truly an inspiration!
To find out more about who Claire works for, and career opportunities visit: https://www.prospectcoaches.co.uk/
