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 four women that our Midlands Region are celebrating as women who keep Midlands moving.
Our Midlands Region is celebrating four women that have shared their experiences to offer a glimpse of the variety of careers within bus, coach and community transport sector and the people at the heart of it all.
Sharon Bailey
Operations Manager, Trentbarton Nottingham
Sharon has been a valued part of the Trentbarton team for 37 years, witnessing significant changes across the industry during that time. She has seen roads become increasingly busy, with additional restrictions creating greater challenges for keeping services on time. Sharon has also experienced major advancements in vehicle technology, alongside improved welfare facilities and equipment for drivers. What she enjoys most about her role is helping people, something that has clearly remained at the heart of her work throughout her long and dedicated career.
Sophie Urquart
Head of Marketing and Communications, Roberts Travel Group
I’m Sophie, Head of Marketing & Communications at Roberts Travel Group. I enjoy multiple things about this industry but mostly the variety you experience day to day. From the variety of departments to showcase, to the people across our business, no two days are the same and it makes the days extremely rewarding.
Joanne Armitage
HR Manager, Roberts Travel Group
What drives my passion for HR in the coaching industry is the unique alignment of our internal mission with our external purpose. Because our industry is entirely people focussed, I get to practice HR in its purest form, championing people, fostering continuous learning, and it allows me to turn my passion for people into purposeful support. People are truly at the heart of everything we do so by cultivating an inclusive, thriving workplace where every team member feels valued and equipped to succeed means I am constantly inspired by our collective dedication to making a meaningful impact on people’s lives demonstrating that at Roberts Travel Group we don’t just manage symptoms, we promote sustainable change.
As a female leader in this field, I am incredibly proud to work alongside colleagues who are equally passionate about what we do. Working in an industry that is encouraging and empowering women to thrive professionally and personally creates an environment where female professionals feel valued, heard, and completely equipped to succeed unlocking potential from the inside out. There is nothing more rewarding than supporting the talent that helps us grow which is both a privilege and the core inspiration behind our business.
Lily Spencer
Marketing Executive, Roberts Travel Group
I’m Lily, Marketing Executive at Roberts Travel Group. One of the things I love most about my role is that no two days are ever the same. The travel industry is constantly evolving, with exciting new initiatives, opportunities and launches happening all the time, which makes it such an interesting and rewarding industry to be part of.
I also love being part of such an inclusive industry, particularly working for a company that supports and encourages the growth and development of women across the sector. It’s inspiring to see more opportunities opening up for women and to be part of an industry where people support one another and encourage each other’s progression.
Thank you to all four for sharing their experiences, and to our Midlands Region for bringing their stories together.
Would you like to share your own experience of working in the bus, coach and community transport sector? Fill out our Spotlight On form.
