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:
Marie McTaggart
Executive Assistant
Dawsongroup bus and coach
How did you get to where you are today?
To be honest, it’s been a bit of a journey! Having a baby at 18, my career was slow to start. I began working part time around my family and had various jobs which allowed me to gain skills and build knowledge, whilst working on my personal development at college in the evenings. I have always enjoyed studying, so being able to learn new skills whilst working around my family was perfect for me.
With each job I took away a new skill set. When my daughter was old enough, I eventually went on to work full time in Sales for a Car manufacture, before moving into the Fleet department. I then had a career break to have my second daughter.
Changing paths, I returned to work as an Office Manager for a small independent Lettings company, before joining Dawsongroup bus and coach as an admin assistant 7 years ago.
When an opportunity arose a couple of years ago for an Executive Assistant, I knew it was something that I wanted to apply for. With the encouragement and support of great colleagues, along with hard work and determination, I applied, and the rest is history!
Did you experience any challenges getting to where you are today?
Of course, working around a young family is challenging, especially when studying, but I am lucky to have a very supportive family, who were always on hand to offer support, (and childcare)! Self-belief has always been a personal challenge of mine.
If so, how did you overcome then?
With the support and encouragement of a great mentor, you will be surprised at what you can achieve.
What do you like about the sector?
It’s varied, fast paced, challenging, and extremely rewarding. There is always something new as technology is evolving.
What does a typical day look like?
A typical day doesn’t really exist if I am being honest, which is why I love my job!
It allows me to experience so many new opportunities, to step outside of my comfort zone, taking on challenges that I never thought I could. From processing producing documents, to planning events, there is never a dull moment!
My role has allowed me the privilege of attending industry events at the Palace of Westminster, a place that I am constantly in awe of with every visit and enabled me to meet so many people from a variety of backgrounds, including Lords and Ladies.
What advice would you give to women thinking about a career in the bus and coach sector?
I would say there is a great career waiting for you! There are so many opportunities available. What a great time to join the industry and be a part of all of the great work Women in bus and coach are doing to break down barriers and pave the way for a bright future.
What has been your bus or coach sector career highlight?
My Managing Director is a member of various external organisations within the industry. One of which is The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, (CILT). Until recently he was ‘International President of CILT, and as such as admin support, I became Executive Assistant to the International president, (well according to my e-mail signature I did)! 😊
On a serious note, continuing with my personal development, I took part in the Dawsongroup Business Mastery programme shortly after joining the company, achieving a distinction. Little did I know at the time, that this result would earn me a seat at a very prestigious table. Earlier this year Dawsongroup Business Mastery Programme was shortlisted for ‘The Learning Award’ People Development programme- Private Sector 2024. My hard work paid off, when I was selected along with a handful of my colleagues to attend this prestigious black-tie event, which was held at Park Lane in London. It was an honour to receive an invitation and be part of the celebration at this fantastic event.
What three things could the Bus and Coach sector do to improve the industry for Women?
Improve facilities for female drivers/address needs – Correctly fitting uniforms, Cab design, toilet facilities at stop areas, provision of sanitary products.
Encourage more diversity particularly in senior roles by breaking down barriers and mentoring, providing allyship and development opportunities, to ensure we see more women embark on the journey to senior Management and Board level positions.
Improve the offer on flexible working conditions in order to enable women to work around young families, childcare, or other responsibilities such as caring for loved ones.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
I don’t know where I will be in 5 years’ time, I love what I do, and am constantly surprising myself, but I do know that I will be continuing to step outside of my comfort zone, to further my personal development.
Thank you for sharing your story Marie, you are truly an inspiration!
To find out more about who Marie works for and career opportunities visit: People | Dawsongroup
