A trio of Southern Vectis colleagues have been shortlisted for prestigious industry awards, recognising their outstanding contributions to the Isle of Wight bus operator and the wider transport industry.
Operations Manager Simon Moye, Engineering Manager Garry Furmidge and Engineer Laura Cox have all been named finalists in prestigious industry awards.
Simon is a finalist for Manager of the Year at the UK Bus Awards, Garry is a finalist for Engineer of the Year at the UK Bus Awards, and Laura is a finalist for Engineer of the Year at the Go-Ahead Group Gold Awards.
The nominations recognise the contribution Simon, Garry and Laura have made across Southern Vectis, from supporting the successful introduction of the company’s new electric fleet to developing colleagues, embracing innovation and driving high standards across the business.
Richard Tyldsley, General Manager of Southern Vectis, said:
“To have three colleagues recognised through these prestigious awards is a fantastic achievement and reflects the strength, professionalism and commitment of the team we have at Southern Vectis.
“Simon, Garry and Laura have each played an important part in one of the most significant periods in our company’s history, helping us successfully introduce a new electric fleet whilst continuing to deliver high-quality services for our customers.
“Their nominations recognise not only their individual achievements but also their dedication to supporting colleagues, embracing innovation and driving continuous improvement across the business. We are incredibly proud to see them recognised in this way and wish them every success.”
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Simon Moye’s nomination recognises his leadership in developing and delivering training programmes to prepare drivers for the arrival of the new electric fleet.
He played a key role in ensuring colleagues were equipped with the skills and confidence to operate the new vehicles safely and efficiently, while also driving improvements in colleague engagement, recruitment and operational performance. He has also championed initiatives to support wellbeing, inclusion and workforce diversity, with women now making up 27% of Southern Vectis’ driving team.
Engineering Manager Garry Furmidge has been recognised for leading the engineering operation through the successful introduction of the 31-vehicle electric fleet and associated charging infrastructure. Managing a team of 45 engineers and support staff, Garry has overseen one of the most significant engineering projects in Southern Vectis’ history while maintaining exceptional operational performance, including an MOT pass rate of 99.3%
Laura Cox’s nomination recognises her technical expertise, commitment to continuous learning and willingness to support colleagues across the wider Go-Ahead network. Having achieved Level 3 High Voltage qualifications, IRTEC Inspection Accreditation and specialist electric vehicle training, Laura has played an important role in supporting Southern Vectis’ transition to zero-emission technology. Highly respected by colleagues, she regularly shares her expertise both within Southern Vectis and while supporting engineering teams at other Go-Ahead locations.
The UK Bus Awards are among the most respected accolades in the UK bus industry, recognising excellence and achievement across the sector. The Go-Ahead Gold Awards celebrate colleagues who have made an outstanding contribution to customers, communities and the wider business.
The winners will be announced in November at prestigious industry awards ceremonies, bringing together leading operators, organisations and professionals from across the UK bus and coach sector.
