Spotlight Series: Meet David Wecke

For this month’s Spotlight piece, we interviewed David Wecke, Head of Operational Safety at Transport UK London Bus (formerly Abellio). David worked in the aviation industry before transitioning to bus safety at Transport UK London Bus. We spoke to him about achievements in his career so far, the future of the bus industry, and how Transport UK London Bus ensures the safety of its customers and drivers.

How did you get into the transport industry and your current role as Head of Operational Safety at Transport UK London Bus?

I started out in aviation, where I worked as cabin crew before working my way up to operations at British Airways (BA). I managed pushing back and towing aircrafts to the engineering hangars and then went into safety, managing processes and investigating serious incidents on the ground. I also managed the Covid risk assessment for the airline when the pandemic hit before I left to join Transport UK London Bus as Operational Safety Manager in April 2022.

What skills helped you succeed in the transition from aviation to your role at Transport UK London Bus?

It was great to transition to a different aspect of the transport industry after 17 years in aviation. Having strong people skills helped, as well as understanding how to have a conversation about safety in a way others understand. I’m a firm believer that it’s not what you say, but how you say it. To give you an example, having a colleague not wearing a hi-vis jacket might seem like a small thing, but a hi-vis can be what keeps someone alive. It’s important to explain that to keep it real for them.

What is keeping you here and is there anything specific you are passionate about in the transport industry?

Every day is different and Transport UK London Bus itself is like working for a small family. Everyone knows each other, everyone is willing to help one another. As long as you have a network of colleagues who are willing to put in the work, it makes your job easy. It is also very varied which I love!

How is Transport UK London Bus planning for the future of transport and adapting for it?

We work closely with TfL, focusing on innovation and technology, and are committed to bringing in low emission vehicles with excellent customer features, both for comfort and safety. We’ve worked particularly closely with TfL on the award-winning Bus Safety Standard, bringing high-backed seats, better placed grab rails, relocating windscreen wipers and removing the centre rear seat. Right now, I’m working with TfL on trials for fatigue detection, alcohol testing and ways that we can pre-warn customers onboard that the bus is about to move away, to remind them to hold on tight.

What does a typical day look like as the Head of Operational Safety?

I spend the day travelling between all six depots, supporting with any incidents and working to proactively promote road safety with all our drivers. I have to ensure I have all necessary information that I may need further down the line. I also deal with any incidents and customer complaints related to safety, regularly checking in with my Safety School and CCTV teams.

As the Head of Operational Safety, how do you ensure safety remains a priority across the company?

It’s the way we communicate across the company. I’m always thinking of what my next campaign would be. Moving on from the ‘winter is coming’ campaign which reminds us to prepare for icy roads, but soon I’ll be communicating with drivers about something else because they are a key part of the business. At Transport UK London Bus we make sure we are very honest about safety which makes my role a lot easier.

What role do you think Transport UK London Bus plays in connecting Londoners?

London Buses are vital for the community. In many areas of London, you cannot have a car or a parking space, so buses become the heartbeat of the capital. Whether people are travelling on our new “route—133” into Holborn in central London or elsewhere, we always endeavour to do it safely.

How can working in the transport industry improve individual career trajectories?

The transport industry is vast. You always think of a few main roles, like bus driver and conductor, but there are thousands of others behind the scenes. Whether it's in compliance, safety, or commercial—the opportunities are there for anyone. I joined the bus industry two years ago and whatever age you are, there’s always a role if you want it and you’re willing to learn and grow.

What is the best piece of career advice you have ever received?

In any role that you’re applying for, do your research. Try to understand a role before going for it. By doing that you’ll understand whether the company is the right fit for you and if you’re the right fit for the company. If the company is right, it won’t feel like work, it will feel like you’re achieving something for the greater good.