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:
Kerry Turner
Head of Operations, Metroline
Director at Women in Bus and Coach
How did you get to where you are today?
I’m blessed to have worked in a number of different industries in the public, private and voluntary sector so having such broad experience has definitely given me broad exposure, versatility and proven experience of transferable skills.
Did you experience any challenges getting to where you are today?
I think everyone does at times – whether it’s jugging workload, juggling work-life balance, navigating internal politics and different personalities to managing our own mental health and wellbeing.
If so, how did you overcome then?
I’m lucky to have an incredibly supportive husband who will let me harp on after a difficult day, who is accommodating when I am slacking at home and who knows me better than I know myself sometimes and can pick me up when I am suffering self-doubt. I have had some amazing colleagues across my career, many who will be friends for life and who have been inspiring and supportive which is key to overcoming challenges. Louise Cheeseman, founding Director of Women In Bus and Coach has been an incredible mentor and friend and soon to be OBE!!!
What do you like about the sector?
I love the breadth and variety of the transport sector, I love that we are evolving through electrification and through franchising – making transport work for the communities they are supposed to serve and I have met some truly awesome and inspirational people working in transport.
What advice would you give to women thinking about a career in the bus, coach or community transport sector?
Go for it! We need more women in this industry. There is lots of opportunity for career development in transport and so much variety. Be true to yourself, be authentic and unapologetically ‘you’ and never be afraid to ask a seemingly stupid question. I would also say that I have grown more from doing things that terrify me rather than excelling in my areas of comfort and expertise. I’ve also learned that the scary things are never as bad as we think – our imagination is very creative but not always in a positive way.
What has been your bus, coach or community transport sector career highlight?
My absolute highlight was speaking at the House of Commons last December as a Mentee Director with Women In Bus and Coach. Without my Directorship I would never have had the opportunity and it was a real pinch-myself moment.
What three things could the bus, coach or community transport sector do to improve the industry for women?
- Don’t do what you have always done – to attract and retain women, we have to be more creative and think outside the box when it comes to rosters and working hours
- Have support groups, allies or mentors for female employees – it can be a lonely place.
- Have a close look under the bonnet in your organisations – when you speak to women from grass roots up, they will tell you things that would make your toes curl. There is a lack of understanding of what some women are subjected to in the workplace still and only if we listen and learn, can we change it.
What changes have you seen since in the sector since you joined?
I’ve been in the sector for 11 years. In that time there has been a huge focus on sustainability and carbon reductions, a huge push on EDI improvements and a greater adoption of flexible and home working options. All really positive but we still have only 11% women in the sector and it kills me. We have had the vote since 1918 – how are we still talking about equality for women and still failing?!!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
Ooh that’s a good question! In the absence of a crystal ball or a winning lottery ticket, I am predicting and hoping to still be in the transport sector, I will still be passionately championing and advocating for women in our industry and I will still be calling out things that aren’t right. The day I stop doing that means that I have given up (and being somewhat persistent and determined) I can’t see that happening.
Anything else you would like to share?
The Mentee Director role was a life-changer for me, I would urge people to apply, have some self-belief and throw your hat in the ring. The closing date is 14th August.
Thank you for sharing Kerry, your story truly makes a difference.
To find out more about who Kerry works for, and career opportunities visit: https://www.metroline.co.uk/recruitment-london/
