Freight Manager
Jess Lippett
Day to Day tasks
I keep essential goods moving all over the UK. You name it, I move it ... from bananas to bricks, sand to sweets and medicines to metal.
Skills needed for this role
e.g., written and verbal communication, research skills, stakeholder relationships, data analysis
Problem solving, Organisation, Teamwork.
My working environment
Every day is different. We move so many different commodities on the railway, from supermarket goods to domestic waste- and seeing how important the railway is to all these sectors keeps the job interesting.
Education
e.g., GCSE
I studied English literature, history and media studies at A-Level, then worked in hospitality before landing a job with a freight operator in customer services.
Duty Shift Manager
Mick
Day to Day tasks
- Plan and action marshalling of train services.
- Day to day running of Basford Hall LDC.
- Welfare of staff.
- Carrying out assessments.
- Ensure work is carried out safely.
Skills needed for this role
e.g., written and verbal communication, research skills, stakeholder relationships, data analysis
- Communication skills
- Positive attitude
- Good team worker
- Creating and maintaining a safe working environment
- Attention to detail
- Encouraging learning
My working environment
I work in the train marshalling yard outdoors. Full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required at all times whilst I’m on or near the railway line and to ensure all work is carried out safely.
Pathways into this role
- Traineeship
- Apprenticeship - Level 3 Team Leader/Supervisor &/or Level 5 Operations Manager
Best and most challenging things about this job
The best thing about my job is that everyone goes home safely and my working relationships with all staff involved. The most challenging thing about my job is having to deal with multiple issues at the same time.
Terminal General Manager
Nick
Day to Day tasks
- Speaking to customers.
- Leading my team to deliver a reliable service for customers.
- Leading and improving safety at the Terminal.
- Increasing income for this terminal.
- Creating an inclusive culture where all my team feel welcome and can do their best work.
Skills needed for this role
e.g., written and verbal communication, research skills, stakeholder relationships, data analysis
- Leadership
- Organisational skills
- Financial skills
- Operational knowledge
- Creativity
My working environment
A 24-acre shipping container storage site in Southampton docks. My work requires me to be inside and outside. Personal protective equipment is a requirement for my role.
Pathways into this role
- General Manager Freightliner
- Head of Operations, Red Funnel Group
- Terminal Operations Manager, Red Funnel Group
- Contact Centre & Ops Manager, Red Funnel Group
- Client Manager, Abbey National PLC
Education
- HND Business - Bournemouth University
- CEFA/CEMAP - Financial Services Authority
- A Levels, English and Business Studies, Ryde School
Best and most challenging things about this job
The diversity of the day, the constant communication with team mates and customers, the passion of getting things right!
There are also many other rail roles in the Customer Service & Operations category, such as Customer Delivery Manager, Train Dispatcher, Onboard Service Manager, Head of Fleet, and Service Delivery Officer, and Passenger Assistance Coordinator.