Saturday, August 24, 2024 Southeastern is highlighting the wide range of rewarding career opportunities within the rail industry as students across the country celebrate their GCSE and A-Level results. A shining example of the promising paths available is the Innes family from Kent, who share a passion for the railway and have all found fulfilling careers with Southeastern. Southeastern is set to recruit 170 trainee drivers, over 100 station staff, and numerous individuals for roles in Railway Enforcement and Protection, Onboard Management, Train Conducting, and Engineering.
There are also opportunities in management and specialized fields. Committed to breaking down barriers and enhancing social mobility, Southeastern aims to increase the hiring of under-represented groups by 10% each year, challenging outdated perceptions of the rail industry and promoting inclusivity. This exam results day, Southeastern celebrates the Innes family, who have all joined the Southeastern team.
Chris Innes, the family patriarch, paved the way as a Train Driver and Manager in Ramsgate. His son, Jack, works as a Service Engineer at the Slade Green depot, while daughter Amy started as a Customer Services Apprentice and has progressed to Operations Procurement Manager. Chris’s wife, Marie, contributes as a Revenue Protection Team Leader, and their daughter, Lucy, recently joined as a Purchasing Officer at Slade Green.
Known for their unique surname, the Innes family is recognized throughout Southeastern’s various departments. Their combined efforts support the operation of over 1,700 daily services, transporting more than 500,000 passengers across 181 stations and 540 miles of track. Southeastern’s commitment to expanding career opportunities is evident through stories like the Innes family’s.
By providing diverse career paths and fostering an inclusive environment, Southeastern is not only supporting the current workforce but also paving the way for the next generation of railway professionals. Family Insights Amy, who has had several roles at Southeastern – from customer service to commercial and procurement, credits her dad for introducing their family to the industry: “The attraction of working for Southeastern was something that was realised after my dad told us about the opportunities on the railway. I think the fact that we all do such different jobs, and our work is so varied, shows that there is something for everyone.
I started straight after my GCSEs as a Customer Service apprentice at 16 and by 22 with support and training I was a manager working in a job I loved. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else, and I know my family feels the same too.” Each family member’s job helps give a new perspective on the railway, said Jack : “Because of what my dad tells me, I can put myself in the mind of a driver when I’m fault finding.
” Chris agrees: “I talk to Jack about technical aspects of the trains I drive and to my wife about how revenue affects the business.” Marie enjoys the connection they have through the industry: “We all know people across the business. At work, it’s like having 15 brothers and sisters!” Lucy says: “It felt like it was inevitable to happen, I saw how much my family loved working here.
it’s been really nice to be able finally join in and give my own perspective on discussions we have about work!” Southeastern’s People Director, Steve Foster, said: “Receiving your GCSE and A Level results is a significant milestone, and it opens up a world of possibilities. At Southeastern, we believe that working here brings responsibility, pride, and achievement. We are looking to recruit great people who represent the diverse communities we serve.
“There are many talented young individuals out there who could have a rewarding and enjoyable career with us, working in a wide range of roles across our network. I encourage all those receiving their results today to consider a career in rail. You can join today with full training provided or you can you join after college or university, perhaps on our graduate scheme or in a particular profession such as finance, engineering, IT and Digital or project management”.
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