Leeanne
Employed by Cardiff bus for 10 years
Previous employment: Civil Servant and a manager in retail sector
What are your main responsibilities as an operations manager?
My main responsibilities are managing a team of drivers to ensure that Cardiff bus' high standards of customers services are maintained, monitoring and managing attendance levels, and proactively managing road traffic collision numbers to ensure passenger and public safety. In addition to this, I make sure the network is operating efficiently and ensure we comply with Traffic commission requirements and PCV regulations. This involves communicating effectively across the business to achieve company goals.
How do you communicate with the supervisors and drivers?
I communicate with supervisors and drivers in a variety of ways such as via email, ticketer (messages sent to a driver's personal accounts on the ticket machine), telephone, face-to-face, staff notices and via Blink our employee app. Ensuring that I stay in touch with my team is very important to me so whatever method people use to reach out, I ensure I’m accessible.
Which roles have you previously held at Cardiff bus?
I have spent the majority of my time with Cardiff bus as a driver, during which I have held a number of positions on Unite the Union committee such as Equalities Officer, LGBT+ rep, panel rep and most recently Chairperson and was proud to be the first woman to hold that office in Cardiff bus' history
Do you feel your experience as a bus driver has helped you in your role as a manager?
My experience as a bus driver has been instrumental in molding my management style as I have encountered the challenges of the role and I understand the difficulties drivers face. Also, I have experienced what a rewarding and prestigious role being a bus driver is and the responsibilities it carries. I met colorful characters from all walks of life and thoroughly enjoyed my time as a driver. I particularly enjoyed working with such a diverse bunch of colleagues and formed many friendships with past and present employees.
Has the company supported your career and progression to manager level?
The company took a leap of faith and goodwill when recruiting me as an operations manager. Never in times remembered has a trade union officer been recruited into such a post. This opportunity is a really positive step for both me and the company – it demonstrates a maturity in the company that they are able to value and put their trust in the potential of an individual regardless of the role they are working in. I have been supported, encouraged and nurtured in my role from colleagues in every department, it really has been heartwarming
Would you encourage other women to join Cardiff bus? Do you think women make good bus drivers?
I would certainly encourage other women to join Cardiff bus. I think that women make fantastic bus drivers. The hours are flexible and staff are friendly and supportive. It may not be a traditional career option but what’s not to love about meeting the community we live in, having independence whilst being part of a team, and having a role that allows us to care for those who need it? I go home knowing that one small act from me can make someone’s day. And then there’s doing a job that has traditionally been seen a man’s role and the pride of breaking people’s preconception of “women drivers” gives me satisfaction. I love nothing more than a “cheers drive”