The event was attended by over 760 individuals from across the rail industry, coming together to celebrate colleagues, teams and companies, who work hard to support others and to help create a more gender balanced, diverse and inclusive work culture in our industry.
Following the Reception, guests were serenaded to their seats by Southeastern’s very own TRAX Choir. A welcome address from Huw Merriman, Minister for Rail and HS2, marked the opening of the ceremony, followed by Vice-Chair of Women in Rail, Shona Clive, then an inspirational address by Anit Chandarana, Lead Director, Great British Railways Transition Team. Returning host, Gemma Cairney - Broadcaster, Youth Rights Activist and Author - and self-declared rail enthusiast - added a witty commentary to the evening.
Mark joined Southeastern in February 2022 wanting a new career challenge. Having held management roles at Premier Inn and the Co-op, 58-year-old Mark has whole heartedly embraced the challenge of a new industry, with colleagues saying Mark has always gone the extra mile regards to his work and learning. He has impressed not only the apprenticeship team but his trainers, managers and our executive management team.
As part of his route learning training, Mark took it upon himself to visit each of our stations to collect key information, including the number of car parking bays, the number of toilets, ticket vending machines and what the disabled access was. All of the data has been uploaded on a spreadsheet which has been shared with colleagues. He has also, off his own back, compiled comprehensive documents that contained information in an easy-to-digest and understandable format. This approach shows his thirst for knowledge and attention to detail.
Mark Barron says: "It's very much appreciated. It makes it easy when you're doing a job (and for a company) that you absolutely love".
Steve White, Managing Director says: "The quality and scope of the work Mark has produced to aid his learning, is phenomenal. His station profile documents are amazing. The personal time and effort that Mark put in collating and sharing the information into useful easy to understand documents now used across the business, is commendable. He is a fabulous addition to the railway family and a deserved winner of this award. I would also like to congratulate Maureen Dominey, and Lee Woolcott-Ellis for their enormous contributions to Southeastern that resulted in them being shortlisted at this prestigious industry event. ”
