Ahead of British Airways, EasyJet and Transport for London, Virgin Trains’ east coast business was ranked second out of all transportation and logistics companies, and 43rd overall in an independent UK-wide survey of 1,600 companies.
The Bloomberg-sponsored survey, which lists the top 400 employers in the UK, used a robust sample of 15,000 UK employees who answered questions about their employer.
Clare Burles, People Director for Virgin Trains on its east coast route, said:
– We’re absolutely delighted to feature so highly in this list. It’s our people — both customer-facing and behind the scenes – and their commitment, skills and personality that drive our amazing business.”
The company has already enjoyed an eventful January — delivering the first of its newly refurbished trains as part of a £40m investment in its train fleet. This includes a stylish makeover with new interiors, including luxurious leather seats in First Class, and new carpets and fittings throughout to bring added customer comfort and a touch of the glamour for which the Virgin brand is famous, as well as an improved working environment for staff.
Since it launched in March 2015, Virgin Trains has been transforming the business including introducing new uniforms, a revamped staff benefits package and a Red Hot awards ceremony to recognise the great work of its customer-facing, operational and engineering employees.
A new recognition scheme, Virgin Stars, has also been launched to recognise and celebrate the company’s best people, and examples of customer service. Meanwhile, Newcastle Driver, John Scott was awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours.
