As has been known for a while, Jane Cole, is to retire as Managing Director of Blackpool Transport in May and ahead of her leaving the organisation she has been reflecting on her career in the industry. Whilst she has been at Blackpool Transport for over 10 years, she has a wide-ranging career in the transport industry which has spanned almost 50 years.
During her career, Jane, who was awarded an OBE in the New Year’s honours list, has played a leading role in a wide range of transport and business organisations, including UKTram, the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board, the North West Chamber of Commerce, and Confederation of Passenger Transport.
Reflecting on her time at Blackpool Transport, Jane said: ““I’m really going to miss all the people who work so hard to deliver the best possible bus and tram services on the Fylde Coast for residents and millions of tourists. It is certainly a very special place. Also, I’m grateful for all the support I’ve received from members of my team, the wider Blackpool Transport family, the local authority and colleagues from across the transport sector.”
Jane’s career in transport started when, aged 18, she joined British Rail, firstly as a clerk in the payroll department before moving to Blackpool North Railway Station where she was responsible for rostering.
She soon became a quality manager for provincial and inter-city services and an onboard manager before landing the position of Train Services Manager at Euston Station. This included one of the highlights of her career when she met the Queen and other members of the Royal Family while managing the Royal Train. Upon privatisation of the railways Jane joined Virgin Trains in 1997 where she was regional manager for Anglo-Scotland services and then regional manager for Manchester and Liverpool services.
Jane added: “This really was a golden age, and I learnt so much from Richard Branson, his commitment to finding innovative ways to put the customer experience first and the importance of building a work family around you that you can really trust.”
Although Jane will be leaving Blackpool Transport in May she has no plans to completely retire: “I may take a little time out to enjoy some quality time with family, but I fully intend to continue my support for several charities, entrepreneurs and women who work in the transport industry. I would also like to offer my very best wishes for the future to my successor and everyone at Blackpool Transport, I’m sure the organisation will be in very safe hands!”