Women in Bus and Coach has launched a coach subgroup. Chair is Kathryn Pulham, former director of Pulhams Coaches, with Williams Coaches Operations Director Rose Williams as Vice-Chair.
The advocacy organisation says that the coach subgroup has been formed to address the challenges and opportunities faced by women in the coach sector.
It will act as a platform for sharing experiences, fostering professional development and driving meaningful change in a segment that has traditionally had an underrepresentation of women, and “aims to provide tailored support, networking opportunities and resources for women in the UK coach industry.”
Women in Bus and Coach Chair Louise Cheeseman notes that coaching “presents its own set of challenges and opportunities.” She hopes that the latest initiative “will ensure that women in this field have the support and resources they need to thrive.”
On the agenda for the coach subgroup are events, workshops and networking sessions to enhance skills, boost confidence and promote leadership among women in the coach industry.
It will also provide a forum for discussing sector trends, sharing best practice and advocating for greater diversity and inclusion in the industry.
Speaking about the subgroup’s foundation, Women in Bus and Coach director and Masons Minibus and Coach Hire director Candice Mason says: “This is a landmark for women in our industry.
“By bringing together a community of professionals, the coach subgroup will not only support individual career growth but also help to drive the industry forward by fostering a more inclusive environment.”
The Go-Ahead Group, which owns Pulhams Coaches, is supporting Mrs Pulham in taking on responsibility of chairing the subgroup.
“After 16 years in the coach and bus industry, often as the only female in the room, I know well the challenges faced by women at all levels; the pressure to achieve, and the valuable – but largely unseen – work delivered behind the scenes, usually while wearing several other hats,” she says.
“I look forward to working with Candice, Rose, and other colleagues at Women in Bus and Coach, opening up further dialogue with women and allies in the coach space.”
Mrs Williams has also expressed enthusiasm for the latest work. “As someone who has grown up in the coach industry, I know the incredible value that women bring to this field,” she says.
“This subgroup is about building a community where women in coaching can connect, learn and lead together. I am excited to work with Kathryn, Candice and women across the UK to help to shape a more inclusive, forward-looking coach industry.”
All coach industry stakeholders, including leaders, policymakers and women professionals, are invited by Women in Bus and Coach to participate in the subgroup. Further information can be obtained via email.
