The first-ever Women in Bus and Coach Awards were announced at the 2024 Women in Bus and Coach summit on 8 October.
The awards celebrate the outstanding achievements and leadership demonstrated by women across the coach, bus and community transport sectors, along with those who have shown exceptional allyship towards fostering diversity and inclusion.
Liz Eades of Stagecoach South East receives Women in Bus Award
Liz Eades, of Stagecoach South East, was named winner of the Women in Bus Award, sponsored by Backhouse Jones. The award recognises her leadership and commitment to promoting diversity within the bus industry. Liz was presented the award by Anne Marie Purcell of Transport for Greater Manchester and Libby Pritchard of Backhouse Jones Solicitors.
Women in Community Transport Award goes to Kimberley Ward
Kimberley Ward from Lothian Community Transport Services was honoured with the Women in Community Transport Award, sponsored by IntSol Recruitment. Kimberley is celebrated for her leadership and commitment to inclusivity in community transport. Kimberley was presented her award by WiBC Director Candice Mason of Mason’s Minibus and Coach Hire, and Beulah DeCunha of IntSol Recruitment.
Julie Hartley scoops two major awards
Julie Hartley of Irizar UK secured not only the Woman in Coach Award but was also named 2024 Woman of the Year following her exceptional contributions to both her company and the industry at large. Awards organisers commend Julie’s “tireless commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within the coach industry” and that her “passion and drive have not only elevated her company but have also helped shape a more inclusive sector”.
The Woman in Coach Award was sponsored by Dawsongroup Bus and Coach and presented by Victoria Armstrong of the Community Transport Association and Marie McTaggart of Dawsongroup Bus and Coach, while the Woman of the Year Award was presented by Vernon Everitt, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester, and Sara AI-Tayar of MCV group.
For her recognition with the Woman of the Year Award, Julie has wins a week-long VIP trip to Egypt for herself and a guest, sponsored by MCV Group.
Allyship Award for Richard Grey of Greys Travel Solutions
Finally, Richard Grey of Greys Travel Solutions was awarded the Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill Allyship Award for his commitment to supporting women and advancing diversity across the transport profession. The award was sponsored by Go-Ahead Group and presented by Claire Mann of Transport for London and Carolyn Ferguson of Go-Ahead Group.
