The Guardian has named Operations Manager for Stagecoach South, Colin Ashcroft, as one of its unsung heroes of 2020.
The nomination came from one of Colin’s drivers, who described him as being “loved by all his staff” and “a huge mental health supporter”. When the pandemic started, Colin would don his overalls and “go back to his bus cleaning days” to keep vehicles safe, and alongside Assistant Manager Shane Crisp, worked to keep drivers safe.
“We’re so very proud of Colin for being named by The Guardian as one of their readers’ heroes of 2020,” says Operations Director for Stagecoach South Gordon Frost. “He expertly manages the health and wellbeing of each member of our Portsmouth team, helping us to develop as an organisation.
“Put simply, he has embraced a fresh approach and fresh thinking to management, which is underpinned by his determination, passion and genuine interest in building and maintaining a good rapport with his team.
“Colin is a great ambassador for the business and it is through the good work of Colin and his fellow Portsmouth depot management team that we have a real’ family’ atmosphere at the depot”.
Colin began his career in the transport industry as a cleaner in the 1990s and served the Worthing, Littlehampton, Brighton and Horsham area after qualifying as a driver. He was appointed Operations Manager for Portsmouth in 2016, having served roles as Depot Controller, Inspector, and at management level in Basingstoke and Worthing.
