Unveiling TUK’s new ‘Spotlight’ Series!
To kick-start our ‘Spotlight’ series we are interviewing Transport UK’s Rail Contract Bids Director, Jane Fisher.
Over the coming months, we will introduce you to some of the most dedicated employees who keep Transport UK on track. By sharing their stories these employees will offer an insight into the inner workings of the transport industry.
Some of them might have specialist roles you never even knew existed, while others are stars who inspire everyone around them. While they all work hard behind the scenes to keep our buses and trains moving, some are just beginning their journey as apprentices while others are seasoned managers who have propelled Transport UK to the forefront of the transport industry. Each employee offers unique perspectives, skills, and experiences to the rich talent pool we have at Transport UK.
The spotlight series is our way of recognising and celebrating the incredible diversity and talent within our organisation and the contributions our workforce makes to Britain’s transport network every single day.
- Dominic Booth, CEO, TUK
Spotlight on Jane Fisher
To kick-start our “Spotlight” series, which will introduce you to Individuals across Transport UK, we are interviewing Jane Fisher. Jane is Transport UK’s Rail Contract Bids Director. Since joining the company in 2012 she has worked on 12 major rail and bus bid contracts. Jane spoke to us about her background, what she loves about the rail industry, and how to promote the industry to women and young people.
How did you get into the rail industry?
My route into the rail industry was unusual. I studied English Literature at the University of Sussex and when I graduated, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do next. I had a part-time job in a seafront hotel while studying and decided to carry one working in the hospitality sector. After joining Hilton Hotel’s graduate programme, I went on to run a restaurant in Bermuda for three fantastic years. Sadly, after 9/11 the tourism industry in Bermuda took a hit so I returned to the UK and landed a job in the transport sector with Jacobs Consultancy, part of Jacobs Engineering. They seconded me out to Owning Groups to oversee rail franchises bids. Then in 2012 TUK (then Abellio) offered me a full-time role as a bid manager.
I had the opportunity to manage numerous bids including Northern and ScotRail. After a few years, I became the deputy bid director for West Midlands Trains, negotiating and mobilising that contract before being seconded to that new company as Transition Director. The role was responsible for delivering the £1bn transformation programme including the new HQ in Edmund Street, the new Alstom and CAF trains and associated infrastructure projects. After three exciting years, I returned to TUK’s HQ to take up my current role negotiating contracts and managing bids.
Tell us about your role at TUK
For the last few years, I have managed the annual business planning process from a central group perspective and overseen the performance based fee submissions. I also have a portfolio across all bidding and an eye towards future bids.
What keeps you in the industry?
The pace! There is never a quiet moment, which makes life interesting. Secondly, transport plays an important role in society. It’s often understated, but trains and buses are vital for getting people to work, school, hospital, and leisure activities. Not only are they essential services they are also environmentally friendly.
What would you say are the most significant opportunities for the rail industry?
One of the biggest opportunities for the rail industry is how we evolve the National Rail contracts so that they best deliver for the customers, the taxpayer, and rail staff.
What aspects of your job do you find the most challenging and what do you enjoy the most?
The main aspect, which is both a challenge and what I enjoy, is the fast pace, the variety, balancing all the different plates I’m spinning. Every day brings something new to consider or achieve.
What piece of advice would you give to young people starting their careers?
Treat every day as an opportunity to learn, make sure you understand what new skills you’re learning, and never turn an opportunity down. Capture a new learning point every day and recognise your new skills. And don't be afraid to ask questions.
What advice would you give to young women considering entering the rail industry?
They need to know that their skills are as important in the rail industry as anywhere else. People with management skills, who are articulate, who can lead a team - all skills women have – are very welcome in the rail industry. Over the years, I’ve had several mentors - women who have opened doors for me, who’ve been role models to me and now, I hope I can help others by recognising their transferrable skills.
How are you using your position to influence change in the rail industry?
As the Chair of the Diversity and Inclusion forum, it is my job to encourage the promotion of women, diverse candidates, and diversity networks. I truly believe every company benefits from diversity because it brings new perspectives and creates a stronger work force.
On a personal level, I am proud to be someone who turns up and works hard. By being present in the room, I can also be a good role model to other members of staff.