Bus firm's celebration of women

Stagecoach celebrating women in transport for International Women’s Day.

The firm, whose nationwide network includes many Swindon services, is driving forward several initiatives to build an inclusive workforce that represents all the customers and communities it serves. 

International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality. 

Taking on this year's theme of ‘Inspire Inclusion’, Stagecoach collaborated with its internal Women’s Network to produce a video which showcases women leading the way within Stagecoach and challenging stereotypes surrounding women in transport.  

Claire Miles, Chief Executive Officer, said: “It was a delight to join a collection of fantastic women from across Stagecoach, demonstrating the variety of opportunities available in transport and in our business.

“Ensuring Stagecoach is an employer of choice by actively creating space for diversity and inclusion benefits not only Stagecoach but the wider transport sector.

“ We actively promote diversity and inclusion in a variety of ways, from strategic objectives such as targeting 40% female leaders and 25% of employees from ethnic backgrounds by 2026, through to our employee led networks. 

“Targets such as these help Stagecoach to continue on a positive journey to improve the diversity of the transport sector, but this can only be achieved if we champion women and inspire inclusion.“ 

As part of the recognition Stagecoach also reflected on the achievements of the women within its work force.   

Dawn Murphy, Operations Manager at Stagecoach Yorkshire’s Rawmarsh depot, was recognised at the UK Bus Awards 2023, winning the coveted prize for ‘Manager of the Year’.  Those working with Dawn refer to her as an “industry powerhouse” with over 44 years of varied experience. 

For Dawn it isn’t just a job, it’s service. She cares deeply about serving the community, leading by example and taking the time to mentor others has earned the respect and support of all around her. 

In Stagecoach Manchester, Operations Director, Rebecca Rathore was amongst the winners of the 2023 routeone Awards after winning the ‘Manager of the Year’ award. Rebecca has worked in transport for 22 years, starting with a Saturday job in a ticket office while she was at university rising to her current position. 

Rebecca was also named on the 2023 Northern Power Women’s Future List, which recognises leaders and change makers of the future and won the Customer / Passenger Leader Award at the 2023 Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards. 

People can watch Stagecoach’s video for International Women's Day at https://youtu.be/VfJjaaqeK1I