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:
Beverley Mather
Chief Executive Officer
Dial A Ride Denbighshire Ltd
How did you get to where you are today?
I started at Dial A Ride Denbighshire Ltd in 2006 as a volunteer doing 2 days a week in the office, I was recovering from an operation but needed to get out of the house.
In 2007 a part time admin position became available and I was asked would I like to apply, I did and I became the new office administrator working 20 hours a week, 2 years later the office manager retired and I was asked by the trustees to take over the running of Dial A Ride Denbighshire.
Did you experience any challenges getting to where you are today?
No not really, I did have to do a lot of research I had come from a catering background so it was a far cry from transport.
If so, how did you overcome then?
CTA has always had a North Wales representative who I can always call upon for advice. I did a university course in management too help with the new role and its responsibilities.
What do you like about the sector?
The people we meet and listening to their stories and their part in history fascinates me. The feeling we get knowing that today you have helped someone get to a medical appointment or go shopping keeping their independents knowing that Mr/Mrs Jones has seen that familiar face or got to see their friends at the club so rewarding.
What does a typical day look like?
First things first a brew and catch up with the administration team then emails, as a charity funding is always high priority so checking for updates or looking what grants are available. As a training centre for MiDAS we do have a lot of admin to complete and chase up. Trustees reports and updates for the board meetings. Meetings with social services about service users and also attending Talking points giving out information leaflets and application forms.
What advice would you give to women thinking about a career in the bus and coach sector?
Definitely go for it, it’s an amazing sector to work in and so rewarding.
What has been your bus or coach sector career highlight?
Winning a St. David’s award for our community work during COVID, Also the building we were in was not sufficient but we now are in our own standalone two story building with training room which was much needed for the growth of Dial A Ride.
What three things could the Bus, Coach or Community Transport sector do to improve the industry for Women?
Make it more inclusive with equal pay for women, also make it an inviting industry for females there are some really exceptional female managers, drivers, mechanics, fitters give them a chance to show what they are made of and be proud to employ females showcase them with publicity of being a proud female employer.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
I am always looking at ways to expand Dial A Ride Denbighshire we would love to expand into our neighbouring county in Conwy, So I would love to have an office base and area to house the vehicles in Conwy too.
Anything else you would like to share?
Community Transport is such a fantastic sector to work for you go home knowing you have made a difference to someone’s life each and every day I’m proud of my team each and every one of them, they know how to make the charity what it is today I couldn’t do it without them.
Thank you for sharing Beverley — your journey is a real source of inspiration!
To find out more about who Beverley works for, and career opportunities visit: https://www.dialaridedenbighshire.org/
