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Mar12
Spotlight on Leanne Burford, Designer/Art Director
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. As part of our International Women’s Day celebrations, we’re turning our Spotlight On the women who help lead and shape Women in Bus and Coach, from our Region Chairs and Board Directors to volunteers. Through this special series, we’re recognising the dedication, leadership and commitment ...
Mar11
Spotlight on Wendy Irving, Membership Exec & Office Administrator
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. As part of our International Women’s Day celebrations, we’re turning our Spotlight On the women who help lead and shape Women in Bus and Coach, from our Region Chairs and Board Directors to volunteers. Through this special series, we’re recognising the dedication, leadership and commitment ...
Mar09
Driving Change Together Survey Results
Driving Change Together shares what women across the bus and coach sector told us about their experiences at work. Based on responses from 167 women in roles ranging from drivers to senior leaders, the report highlights both the practical challenges and the positive progress taking place across the industry. Published for International Women’s Day 2026 in partnership with Women in Transport and supported by First Bus. Download the full report below by entering your details, once submitted you will receive an email with your download link.
Mar07
Spotlight on Victoria Armstrong, Chief Executive, CTA and WiBC Director
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. As part of our International Women’s Day celebrations, we’re turning our Spotlight On the women who help lead and shape Women in Bus and Coach, from our Region Chairs and Board Directors to volunteers. Through this special series, we’re recognising the dedication, leadership and commitment ...
Feb25
Blue Plaque Unveiled to Honour Coach Industry Pioneer Ros Hadley
Women in Bus and Coach has unveiled its latest blue plaque at the Stourbridge base of Prospect Coaches to honour the life and legacy of Ros Hadley, former Managing Director of Prospect Coaches and a highly respected figure within the coach industry. The unveiling celebrates Ros’s extraordinary contribution to the family business and the wider sector. Ros, who sadly passed away in summer 2024 aged 69, marked an exceptional 50 years with Prospect Coaches in 2024, having begun her career on the very day the operator opened its depot in Lye, West Midlands. Throughout her career, Ros was widely admired ...
Feb19
Women in Bus and Coach appoints Alex Niemczyk as newest Director
Women in Bus and Coach (WiBC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Alex Niemczyk, Director at Roberts Travel Group, as the organisation’s newest Board Director. Alex plays a key role in leading and developing Roberts Travel Group across its coach and bus operations. With a strong background in operational leadership and commercial strategy, he is recognised for his commitment to delivering high standards of service while creating positive workplace cultures where people can thrive. Alex brings a clear focus on the importance of investing in talent, supporting career progression, and building inclusive environments that reflect the communities served by ...
Feb13
Trailblazer Honoured: Blue Plaque Unveiled for Maxine Duffus, South Yorkshire’s First Black Woman Bus Driver
On Thursday 12th February, we celebrated the installation of a commemorative blue plaque honouring Maxine Duffus, who made history in 1983 as South Yorkshire Passenger Transport’s first Black woman bus driver. The plaque, now permanently installed at Sheffield Interchange, marks a milestone moment in the transport industry and recognises Maxine’s pioneering contribution to equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging across the sector. Speaking at the unveiling event, Maxine Duffus said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition. When I first started, I never imagined that my journey would inspire others, but I hope this plaque will encourage more women, especially ...
Feb04
Spotlight on Zara Choudhary, Director
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: Zara Choudhary Director Tigers Transport How did you get to where you are today? Started in Software Engineering & vented off into Crypto. Till I was 9 months pregnant, and dad suddenly rememebered his dreams of opening ...
Jan28
Spotlight On Claire Fiddler, Service Delivery Supervisor
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 Fiddler Service Delivery Supervisor Go North East How did you get to where you are today? Back in 2011, while between jobs, I noticed a Go North East bus driver recruitment van in Blaydon. That sparked ...
Jan16
Women in Bus and Coach announces New Chair
Women in Bus and Coach is entering a new chapter, with founder and Chair Louise Cheeseman OBE stepping down after three years and Laura Hadzik appointed as her successor. Bringing extensive sector experience as a specialist road transport solicitor, Laura Hadzik, currently a director on the Women in Bus and Coach board, has advised operators of all sizes across the bus, coach and haulage sectors throughout the UK and Europe for nearly twenty years. Laura has also championed diversity throughout her career, reflecting her commitment to inclusion across the transport sector. Laura will officially take over as Chair on the ...
Jan15
Photos from the Women in Bus and Coach All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) Event 2025
On Monday 1st December Women in Bus and Coach held a Parliamentary reception, hosted by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Bus and Coach. Attendees heard inspirational speeches from Lord Snape of Wednesday, Alex Mayer MP, Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, Louise Cheeseman OBE, Founder and Chair of Women in Bus and Coach, Laura Hadzik, Director Women in Bus and Coach & Partner, Head of Commercial Road Transport, JMW Solicitors, Caroline Whitney, Community Transport Association, Nalisha Fernandes, Mentee Director at Women in Bus and Coach and Victoria Garcia MBE who was recognised as a WiBC Ambassador. Take a look at the photos ...
Jan13
Women in Bus and Coach Third Annual Summit 2025 Presentations
Women in Bus and Coach held its third annual summit on Tuesday 30th September 2025 at lead sponsor BT’s state of the art event facility in Snowhill, Birmingham, bringing together industry leaders, stakeholders, frontline operators and advocates to celebrate the remarkable contributions of women in all roles across the bus, coach and community transport sector. The summit was hosted by Emma Hignett. You can watch the summit presentations on the following videos: Women in Bus and Coach Summit 2025 : Welcome from our BT Hosts & Opening Speech Featuring speeches from: Jane Walker, BT Executive Darren Buttrick, Sales Director, BT ...
Jan07
Spotlight on Sharon Allen, Operations Manager
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: Sharon Allen Operations Manager Roberts Travel Group How did you get to where you are today? I started as an admin assistant and stuck my nose into everything to learn all aspects, I was promoted to Senior ...
Dec10
Unlocking the Coach Sector: Shifting Perceptions and Building a Sustainable, Resilient and Representative Workforce
For almost twenty years, as a specialist regulatory road transport solicitor, I have had the privilege of working closely with coach operators across the country. I have worked with family businesses steeped in heritage and with major national operators running hundreds of vehicles. Although I am not an operator myself, this is a sector I care deeply about. I have seen its challenges and frustrations. I have seen the pressures that weigh heavily on operators. But I have also seen its resilience, its innovation and, above all, its people. These are the individuals who hold the sector together, often quietly ...
Dec03
Spotlight on Jenna Rush, Director & Transport Manager
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: Jenna Rush Director & Transport Manager North East Coach Travel Ltd Tell us a little bit about your journey to becoming a coach driver I joined the coach industry as part of the family business when I ...
Nov26
My Experience on the LEAD Programme by Justine May
My name is Justine May, I am a Senior Operations Manager for National Express. I am currently managing three sites, which operate National Express’s A services from Stansted Airport and the Long Stay/Mid Stay car parks at Stansted, which are operated on behalf of MAG (Manchester Airport Group). I initially heard about the LEAD programme via LinkedIn, where a webinar was being advertised discussing the programme content. I was interested in the three core modules which were explained to us and thought, “This is really something that I would like to participate in,” as it seemed very different from previous ...
Nov11
Spotlight on Holly Dore, Owner, Driver
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: Holly Dore Owner, Driver & many other hats! Voyage Travel Solutions Tell us a little bit about your journey to becoming a coach driver My family have been operating PSV since 1957 in the Oxfordshire area. Transport ...
Nov07
Women in Bus and Coach Bursary for the Women in Transport LEAD Programme 2026
Women in Bus and Coach are proud to sponsor a place on the Women in Transport LEAD Programme for 2026 through our bursary scheme. This initiative provides a unique opportunity for a woman working in bus, coach or community transport to gain invaluable professional development at senior level. About the Bursary This bursary is designed to support women groups who face barriers to accessing funding, particularly those who are self-employed, working in SMEs, charities, or non-profits. The programme is most beneficial for those who can apply the learning directly in their current role, helping to foster career progression and leadership ...
Nov05
Spotlight On Sharon Wildman, Managing Director
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: Sharon Wildman Managing Director/Company Owner Excel Tail Lift Services Limited How did you get to where you are today? The business roots was from my father who enabled us to purchase two vans 20years back in 2005 ...
Oct28
Spotlight On Carol Sim, Operations Director
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: Carol Sim Operations Director Stagecoach South How did you get to where you are today? I worked in a bus station café in my local town from the age of 13 until the age of 18, around ...
Oct27
The Ripple Effect of Mentorship: A Personal Reflection on National Mentoring Day
By Nalisha Fernandes Women in Bus and Coach Mentee Director “We are the sum total of our experiences.” – Maya Angelou Today, on National Mentoring Day, I find myself reflecting on the mentors who’ve shaped my journey. Each conversation, challenge, and moment of encouragement has helped form who I am today. Mentorship, to me, is more than guidance. It is a relationship built on trust, encouragement, and shared growth. Why Mentorship Matters Mentoring has long been recognised as a powerful way for companies to develop talent by leveraging internal knowledge and boosting job satisfaction. The evidence is clear. 70% of ...
