Every year Transdev Australasia recognize team members or Journey Makers as they are known in the region, who have gone above and beyond their role to deliver exceptional service.
The Journey Maker Awards celebrate and reward employees in categories that reflect our global strategic pillars including Innovation Starter, Customer Advocate, Safety Hero and Green Hero.
Here is an interview with this year’s Journey Maker of the Year winner, Lisa Boutherway from Sydney Light Rail.
Tell us a bit about your journey at Transdev and why you joined the team?
I was previously a Team Manager at a couple of companies in Brisbane and Sydney for about 7 years before making my way to Transdev almost 3 years ago now, and I’ve always had a keen interest in driving/management. I first applied as a Light Rail Driver learning the L1 Network and getting to know the other drivers before I applied to be a Team Leader a few months later.
I joined because I have always had a passion for the rail industry and recently found out that I am the 6th generation in my family to work in Rail so that was cool fact and made me more determined to be successful.
The Light Rail team had a challenging year with COVID-19 and extending the light rail lines. You were recognized for providing exceptional and consistent support for the team. How did you personally navigate these challenges?
One of the challenges was isolation from the rest of SLR, once L2/3 opened and the focus shifted away from L1 a bit. But not only that, managing 52 drivers who are all shift workers was also a challenge. I had to make sure my communication was a top priority and know that the drivers could contact me, and I will always respond. Working with the team on some hot topics such as Health and Safety and practicing Safety/Fatigue on the network was another focus.
How does it feel to be recognized among your peers in this way?
I was a little bit taken back and it was definitely unexpected. But if it wasn’t for the drivers and the work they put in, I wouldn’t be where I am today. So, I thank them for their efforts in delivering every day.
What do you think is one of the most important qualities a Light Rail Team Leader can have? What helps you get the most out of the people you lead?
I could list many qualities, but the top ones are being approachable, supportive regardless of the situation, having a positive attitude and strong communication skillset. Having those qualities have helped me lead my team and build rapport & trust where the team can approach me on any topic and know I will support and work to get the best result for them.
What are your goals for 2021?
My goals for 2021 is to have more engagement/interactions between the L1 & L2/3 Drivers – bringing the Light Rail team together.