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:
Hannah Man
Communications Manager
Go-Ahead London
What is your role?
Communications Manager at Go-Ahead London.
How did you get to where you are today?
I began in the Buses in 2003 as a graduate trainee – I spent time driving, learning from all departments and then becoming an Operations Manager.
In 2008, I was seconded to be the Bus Operator Liaison for TfL’s Workplace Violence Unit. I was responsible for being the Bus Operator lead for the new initiative, encouraging reporting and ensuring substantial penalties for those that abuse the vulnerable. This Unit was a success and is still in place today.
I then moved to Go-Ahead London in 2010, as an Operations Manager. I was the 2012 Olympics Operating lead for all of The Go-Ahead Group subsidiaries. This was a very exciting role, organising the training, accommodation and logistics for the Go-Ahead driver colleagues involved in the Games.
In 2014, I was Go-Ahead London’s first female General Manager, solely for Operations. I was responsible for the finance, safety and performance of her garages and 1000 colleagues. In my own time out of work, I undertook a Masters in Human Resources Management to improve herself.
In 2022, I changed roles to become the Go-Ahead London’s Communications Manager. My move to lead the Communications Department and achieve success within this role, really shows the versatility of the Bus and Coach industry.
My teams are responsible for the company’s internal messaging, website, social media and Customer Services. They ensure that the messaging for over 8000 colleagues is suitable and appropriate. I work closely with all of the Departments to assist in improving the customer experience.
Did you experience any challenges getting to where you are today?
Six months after the birth of my second child, I was diagnosed with cancer, requiring surgery and radiotherapy. This was a challenge, as even though I was on maternity leave, I knew there may be a further impact in my health going forward.
If so, how did you overcome then?
I am thankful for the support of Go-Ahead London and fellow bus colleagues during this difficult time.
What do you like about the sector?
I have been able to add value to my roles throughout my career, by leading in community engagement and charity work.
We all work as a big team to make things happen and we do make a real difference.
What advice would you give to women thinking about a career in the bus and coach sector?
The bus and coach sector is an excellent industry to work in. There is such a wide variety of roles, and no two days are ever the same.
There are great people in the sector, and I can guarantee that life will not be boring. The industry is always progressing, and improvements are being made.
What has been your bus or coach sector career highlight?
I was the Operating lead for The Go-Ahead Group subsidiaries during the London 2012 Olympics. I was involved in organising the training, accommodation and logistics for the Go-Ahead driver colleagues involved in the Games. This was a once in a lifetime opportunity to be involved in a prestigious event.
What three things could the Bus and Coach sector do to improve the industry for Women?
I believe that seeing other women driving and also having the opportunity to practice driving (such as at Recruitment Days) does really help.
Representation is also really important. I encourage women to join the Transport industry by ensuring representation in the communications and recruitment adverts. This was part of my pledge when I participated in the London launch of Women in Bus and Coach.
Thank you for sharing your story, Hannah, you are truly an inspiration!
To find out more about who Hannah works for and career opportunities visit: Home :: Go-Ahead London (goaheadlondon.com)
On 8 March 2024, Go-Ahead has set a target to recruit 1,500 women bus drivers, aiming for 50% gender equality by 2035. The ‘Go-Ahead Women’ initiative will see an investment of £8 million to create inclusive environments and training opportunities for our female colleagues. The new recruits will receive eight weeks of fully paid training estimated to be an investment of £7.5 million. Find out more: https://www.go-ahead.com/our-people/Go-Ahead-Women
