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:
Susan Adel Villaverde
Operations Manager
Metroline
What is your role?
I am an Operations Manager at Uxbridge Garage, involved in a wide array of tasks such as managing attendance, collisions, licences, and other critical aspects directly relating to the operation of the garage.
How did you get to where you are today?
In 2012, I uprooted my family for a new start in the UK. I had been working in Spain as a TEFL teacher and previously I had retail experience in London. I was confident I would find a job so instead I tried to help my husband find a job as he did not speak English very well, I wasn’t sure how easy he would find work in his own sector, so I picked up an application form to be a trainee bus driver. However, my husband found work in his own industry, and I was left with an application form…what to do? I decided to fill it out – why not right? I have now been working in Transport since 2012. I began as a late turn spare bus driver at another operator. I came over to Metroline 9 years ago in 2015 due to location, where I continued driving for a further 11 months before being promoted as an administration assistant. After 3 years I decided I needed more of a challenge and applied to be a supervisor and spent a further 3 years in this role before applying for the role I am in now.
Did you experience any challenges getting to where you are today?
Probably, but I always brushed off any challenges and found a way to get through. I have always been very driven and motivated. I like to challenge myself from time to time, so joining the Transport industry to become a bus driver was just another personal challenge for myself. I think most Women in this industry have forced themselves to ‘get on with it’ and persevere, but I definitely do see the challenges faced by Women in the industry, I think I have just been very lucky to always have had really supporting managers. Thinking back to when I joined the industry, the first challenge I faced was rota related. With an 18 month old and a 7 year old I was finding childcare difficult. After a couple of months, I realised I could not afford the nursery costs for my baby. I decided to ask my manager if I could be on permanent late duties starting after 3pm, so I did not have to send him to the nursery. He was very helpful and agreed to help and I am very grateful to him as that was probably the first and biggest hurdle for me. Without his support I might not have been able to pursue a career in Transport.
What do you like about the sector?
When I began in the sector, I loved driving and people. I had always been in customer facing roles, so I was at ease in this role despite all the challenges faced by bus drivers today. When I became an administration assistant, I was able to put forgotten talents to use and still drove now and again. However, I missed engaging with people in this role and needed something more active and that is when I applied for the supervisor role. I realised over time that I enjoy helping others succeed and the varied type of work as no two days are the same. As an Operations Manager I am able to explore that further and with added responsibilities involved in executing daily operational tasks.
What does a typical day look like?
Well, as I mentioned no two days are the same! But I have KPI’s that I manage so most of my day revolves around ensuring targets are met or finding ways to overcome issues that arise that affect or could affect those targets.
What advice would you give to women thinking about a career in the bus, coach or community transport sector?
Do it! You will not regret it. There are so many roles within the industry to suit all needs and there are so many people that can offer the help you need, be it a rota request or a confidence boost. Don’t be afraid to speak to your managers to let them know what your hopes and aspirations are so they can try to assist you to achieve your goals.
What has been your bus, coach or community transport sector career highlight?
There isn’t really one moment, there have been so many instances and people that were pivotal in getting me to where I am today. But I feel when I was appointed as a supervisor at Holloway Garage, I noticed myself grow. I noticed how much I enjoyed working in this industry, the people my colleagues and peers.
What three things could the bus, coach and community transport sector do to improvement the industry for Women?
1. Better, cleaner and safer facilities for bus drivers.
2. Offer a better variety of shifts including part time hours.
3. Offer training for more senior roles.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
Sky is the limit, in 9 years I have been promoted 3 times. I won’t stop now!
Thank you for sharing Susan — your journey is a real source of inspiration!
To find out more about who Susan works for, and career opportunities visit: https://www.metroline.co.uk/recruitment-london/
