Celebrating International Women’s Day with Lucy, Charlotte, Dawn, and Jan

In support of International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the female colleagues who keep our operations moving across the North of England – such as Store Keeper Lucy, Cleaner Charlotte, Operations Supervisor Dawn, and Driver Jan.

Lucy Harris is a Central Store Keeper at our Intack depot in Blackburn, who is responsible for ordering and delivering all parts to the stores within Transdev across Lancashire and Yorkshire.

What do you enjoy most about being a Store Keeper?

“I mostly enjoy the end-product, such as delivering the part that’s needed for a bus to be back on the road. I love a challenge, and this job always has new challenges to tackle – I also have a great team around me who help me a lot.”

What do you like about working in Blackburn and for Transdev?

“I like working here at Intack depot in Central Stores as it is local for me. The team that I have around me are also really supportive, and there is always plenty of laughter. The support from Transdev through my progression has been brilliant too – they have also supported me immensely in my career.”

Do you have any advice for women considering a similar career?

“Just do it! It was a big step for me to do this, and I would not look back. I think doing the job of a Store Keeper is challenging, but it’s also very rewarding. In a male-dominated environment, it’s good to see other women coming into this job and any job within the industry!”

Charlotte Hornby is a cleaner at The Keighley Bus Company, who helps keep the offices at Cavendish House and the workspaces at Marriner Road School Depot safe, clean and clear.

What’s your favourite thing about working at Transdev?

“The camaraderie and all the laughs between staff. It’s a real team effort, making sure that things are done correctly, to the best of my ability and to the highest standard.”

How have you been supported in your career?

“With this role, Transdev have enabled me to be able to take my autistic daughter to school in the morning. I have cover for collecting her in the afternoon. But they also allow me to take time off when needed and take her to any appointments that she may have.”

Do you have any advice for women considering a similar career?

“It can be hard work – especially physically – but it is fulfilling knowing that everything is kept up to a high standard of cleanliness. Always ensure that you’re given the proper equipment. But above all, take pride in the work that you do!”

Dawn Thompson-Cullen is our Operations Supervisor at FLYER, who oversees the day-to-day operations of the bus network between Leeds, Bradford, and Leeds-Bradford Airport.

What’s your day like as an Operations Supervisor?

“I start my day with a walk-around, checking health and safety to make sure there are no issues on site. I deal with any incidents that may occur, checking the CCTV and updating all the paperwork.

“Then it’s about catching up with my drivers, cleaners, duty manager and the engineers to ensure that all is okay. Attending meetings, going on courses – I’m just about to do my First Aid course next week – and I particularly like team meetings where we all catch up.”

How have you been supported in your career?

“Transdev has supported me, as at my age, I applied for the Step-Up programme, and I have now earned my level 3 Certificate of Professional Competence as a transport manager.”

Do you have any advice for women considering a similar career?

“You are never too old for a new challenge. I changed my career at 41 and came into the industry. I then changed again, and I am now Operations Supervisor at Idle - but I am also involved with Malton and York too!”

Jan Imeson is one of our drivers at the Harrogate Bus Company. Jan drives all the routes around this historic spa town and helps passengers get the correct tickets for their travels.

What do you enjoy most about being a bus driver?

“I just love to drive! Every day is different here – and I really enjoy the daily interactions with my regular customers. We have great facilities in Harrogate, and good team morale too. I always want to come to work.”

How have you been supported in your career?

“As a relatively new driver (& late bloomer), I’ve had the opportunity to develop my skills and now I even act as a relief duty manager when needed!”

Do you have any advice for women considering a similar career?

“Just do it – I can honestly say that it’s the best job I’ve ever had.”

An enormous thank you to Lucy, Charlotte, Dawn, and Jan for sharing their stories – and to all the female colleagues here at Transdev who keep us moving.