Get to know Jade, our Fleet Manager!
From inspirations to celebrity sightings, find out what keeps Jade going in her role at Dawsongroup bus and coach.
What was your first job?
My first job was in hospitality at MK Dons while I was in my final year of school. I worked part-time on match days and in the evenings, serving food, tea, and coffee to the press, referees, players, and their families. I also helped during evening functions held at the stadium. It was a really fun and enjoyable experience!
When did you join DGBC?
I joined DGBC in 2016 after making an internal move from DG vans, where I first started my career with Dawsons. I originally joined DG vans in 2014.
What was your first job at DGBC?
A Service Delivery Controller.
What’s your current job and what does it involve?
My current job title is Fleet Manager. In this role, I am responsible for maximising fleet utilisation and ensuring Ventura has sufficient stock available to sell. I also manage vehicle recharges and make sure that all vehicles remain compliant.
What’s been the highlight of your time at DGBC?
I don’t have one specific highlight, as there have been many. Some of the most memorable include attending events at the House of Lords, obtaining my CPC for Transport Managers, and having the opportunity to meet Princess Anne at a Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport event.
Who or what has been the main influence in your career?
My parents have been a major influence on my career, as they have always demonstrated a strong work ethic and dedication. Within the industry, two people in particular have influenced me. The first is Claire Bootle, who is well known in the logistics industry. She took me under her wing and showed me what success can look like. The second is Paul Sainthouse, who believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. He has given me opportunities to progress in my career and opened doors that I never even knew existed.
What career advice would you give to your younger self?
Gain as much knowledge and experience as possible and take every opportunity that comes your way.
What do you like to do in your free time?
My free time is spent with family and friends, watching women’s football either on the TV or attending matches, going to the theatre, and attending celebrity meet and greets. I love meeting famous people and listening to their stories about their personal life and careers.
Which of your personality traits are you most proud of?
My loyalty and dedication to help others succeed both professionally and personally.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I once went to the National Television Awards (NTAs) with my sister. On the way out of the O2, we noticed a room where the celebrity after party was taking place. Before we knew it, we had somehow ended up inside with free drinks and chatting with cast members from shows like EastEnders, Coronation Street, Loose Women, The Chase, and The Graham Norton Show, among others.
The funny part was that we were dressed completely differently from everyone else. I was wearing a jumper, jeans, scarf, and a rucksack, while everyone else was in ballgowns and suits! To this day, I have no idea who people thought we were.
Do you live by any piece of advice or motto?
I don’t have a motto myself, but my sister’s motto is ‘trust the process’ and I do find myself thinking that a lot of the time.
