Women in Bus and Coach is proud to announce the launch of a dedicated Coach Subgroup. This initiative aims to provide tailored support, networking opportunities, and resources for women working in the UK coach industry.
The new Coach Subgroup is designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by women in the coach sector. It will serve as a platform for sharing experiences, fostering professional development, and driving meaningful change in an industry traditionally underrepresented by women.
Louise Cheeseman, Chair of Women in Bus and Coach, commented:
“We are thrilled to introduce this new subgroup, which reflects our commitment to empowering women across all facets of the bus, coach and community transport industry. The coach sector presents its own set of challenges and opportunities, and this initiative will ensure that women in this field have the support and resources they need to thrive.”
The subgroup will host a series of events, workshops, and networking sessions aimed at enhancing skills, boosting confidence, and promoting leadership among women in the coach industry. It will also provide a forum for discussing industry trends, sharing best practices, and advocating for greater diversity and inclusion within the sector.
Candice Mason, Women in Bus and Coach Director and Director at Masons Minibus and Coach hire added:
“This is a landmark moment for women in our industry. By bringing together a community of professionals, the Coach Subgroup will not only support individual career growth but also help drive the industry forward by fostering a more inclusive environment.”
Kathryn Pulham Chair of the Coach Subgroup said:
“I am thrilled to be joining the WiBC team as Chair of the Coach Subgroup, and really appreciate the support from Go-Ahead for me taking on this role.
After 16 years in the bus and coach industry, often as the only female in the room, I know well the challenges faced by women at all levels; the pressure to achieve and the valuable – but largely unseen – work delivered behind the scenes, usually whilst wearing several other hats!
I look forward to working with Candice Mason, Rose Williams and other colleagues at Women in Bus and Coach, opening up further dialogue with women and allies in the Coach space.”
Rose Williams, Vice Chair of the Coach Subgroup and Operations Director at Williams Coaches, expressed her enthusiasm for the launch:
“As someone who has grown up in the coach industry, I know the incredible value women bring to this field. This subgroup is about building a community where women in coaching can connect, learn, and lead together. I’m excited to work with Kathryn, Candice and women across the UK to help shape a more inclusive, forward-looking coach industry.”
Tania Holcroft, Chief People Officer at Go-Ahead Group said:
“As one of the founding supporters of Women in Bus and Coach, Go-Ahead is proud to be leading the way with the Coach subgroup, and we’re delighted that Kathryn will be the Chair, representing our company.”
“There is always more we can do as an industry to ensure that women who are considering a career in coach or are already working in the industry feel valued, in an inclusive environment where they can develop and build a long-lasting career”.
Women in Bus and Coach invites all stakeholders, including industry leaders, policymakers, and women professionals in the coach sector, to participate in the sub-group and be part of this exciting new chapter. Sound of interest? Email us at hello@womeninbusandcoach.org.uk
Kathryn Pulham
Chair – Coach group
Women in Bus and Coach
Kathryn has over 16 years of experience as a co-director of successful bus and coach company Pulhams Coaches, having developed extensive expertise across customer service, HR, payroll, compliance, health and safety, finance, business systems and processes, project management and staff engagement. She is a strong, driven leader, who is committed to excellence and fostering a positive culture within an organisation.
Pulham’s is proud to be a member of The Guild of British Coach Operators and the DVSA Earned Recognition Scheme, highlighting the company’s dedication to exemplary standards within the industry.
Beyond her professional endeavours, Kathryn is deeply committed to supporting her local community. She serves as a Director of Bourton Business Network, bringing businesses together to share opportunities and knowledge. Additionally, Kathryn is a founder member and leads as Chair of Headspace, a youth mental health charity in the Cotswolds, working to create meaningful support systems for young people.
Kathryn holds a degree in Psychology and is a qualified Designated Safeguarding Lead, emphasising her dedication to the wellbeing and safety of others. She is also a licensed PCV driver, adding practical insights to her leadership and operational expertise.
In June 2023, Pulhams was acquired by Go-Ahead where Kathryn continues to play an active role leveraging knowledge and expertise to support business functions. Kathryn is delighted that Go-Ahead champions her leadership as Chair of the Women in Bus and Coach (WiBC) Coach Subgroup, enabling her to advocate for greater diversity and inclusion in the sector.
Rose Williams
Vice Chair – Coach group
Women in Bus and Coach
Rose is Operations Director at her family-owned business, Williams Coaches Brecon. Williams Coaches operates a fleet of 40 vehicles throughout Wales, the UK and Europe providing services such as school contracts, private hires and tours.
Rose has been in the Coach Industry for over 25 years. She obtained her PCV licence at the age of 18 whilst studying for her Degree at Cardiff University. Following graduation Rose was so passionate about the industry she chose to start her career as a cleaner and driver before working her way through various roles, where she now Co-Directs the Company with her brother. Under her direction Williams Coaches has won numerous awards such as ‘Medium Coach Operator of the Year’ and has also achieved DVSA Earned Recognition status.
Rose has always played an active role in supporting Coach Industry events and has won the ‘Women in Transport’ award at the Wales Transport Awards 2019, and more recently ‘Midi-Coach Driver of the Year’ at the UK Coach Rally 2024.
