Rolling Stock / Railway

​Celebrating 20 Years of Success: Colin Earp’s Journey with Ganymede​This year, we're celebrating a major milestone as Colin Earp marks 20 incredible years with Ganymede. Colin has made a lasting impact through his hard work, team spirit, and commitment to delivering for clients and candidates alike. To honour the occasion, we sat down with Colin to reflect on his two-decade journey, his proudest achievements, and what’s kept him motivated over the years.​Reflecting on Two Decades of ExcellenceWhen asked what he is most proud of over the last 20 years, Colin shared“I’ve been awarded Top Consultant twice and Top Contract Consultant several times during my career with Ganymede. These are the achievements I am most proud of. We employ excellent Recruitment Consultants here at Ganymede who build fantastic relationships with clients and candidates, so to be the best of the best is as good as it gets for me.”​Andy Pendlebury, Chairman and CEO of RTC Group Plc and Colin​Why Ganymede? It’s All About the People“There are so many reasons why I enjoy working for Ganymede, but the most important one for me is the people I work with. We support, encourage, advise, coach, and have a laugh with each other every day to ensure we offer the best service to our clients and candidates.The management team plays a huge part in that, and the support I have been given, both in the workplace and in my personal life, has been incredible.Added to that is the fantastic commission structure, systems, and IT that make the job easier and mean we can fill vacancies quicker — and a head office that is a great place to work from.”​Staying Motivated After 20 Years“Everyone knows that recruitment has lots of highs and lows, but placing a candidate is what drives and motivates me every day.”Evolution of Colin's pictures through the years​Key Milestones and Turning Points“I was promoted to Assistant Recruitment Manager back in 2014, where I was managing a team of three recruitment consultants.As it turned out, this was a turning point in my career because I struggled to handle the pressures of managing a team and maintaining my own performance.So after a period of 22 months and with the support of the management team, I decided to return to my role of Principal Consultant.It shows that at Ganymede, the support is there to ensure you develop your career how you want to. If there is a route you take that doesn’t work out, then you can discuss and decide on an alternative — and I’ve never looked back.”​Chris O'Connor, Operations Director in Recruitment commented:​It has been my absolute pleasure to have worked alongside Col for his entire 20-year tenure with the group. I vividly remember us both joining the business back in 2005 – two fresh-faced and perhaps slightly naive recruitment novices eager to forge a career in a sector we knew precisely nothing about! Fast forward two decades, and despite the few extra wrinkles acquired along the way, Col's enthusiasm remains as infectious as ever. More importantly, throughout these years, he has consistently proven himself to be one of the very best in our field.You will be hard-pressed to find anyone with a negative word to say about Colin. He takes immense pride in delivering the very best for his customers, candidates, and colleagues alike. Past and present colleagues will undoubtedly tell you that it is a genuine pleasure to be on his team.Well done, Col – the recognition you will receive for this milestone is richly deserved. Here's to the next 20 years… and who knows, maybe in that time, we'll even see Manchester United challenge again!​This is what Owen Hughes, Divisional Manager, had to say about Colin's anniversary:​I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Colin every single day of my time here, and I can honestly say: anyone would be proud to do the same. He’s the first in, the last to leave, and sets a shining example of what it means to be a top-tier recruiter. His results speak for themselves.Call him the postman: Colin delivers, week in, week out, with unwavering consistency and high-level performance. In fact, he holds the record for the most contract recruitment margin billed by any individual in RTC Group history. He is not just a key member of the team; he is a cornerstone, a benchmark for what great recruitment looks like.Beyond the numbers, Colin is a true gentleman. His professionalism, humility and integrity have earned him the utmost respect and admiration from his colleagues. It is rare to find someone so highly thought of within the workplace.So here is to the man, the myth, the Red Devil, with form far better than his team. Congratulations on smashing through this incredible anniversary, Col. Legend status: well and truly secured.And remember… You’ll Never Walk Alone.​Colin’s 20-year journey is a fantastic example of loyalty, passion and the value of finding the right environment to thrive in. A huge congratulations to Colin on this remarkable milestone. Here’s to continued success and many more achievements still to come.

Mental Health Matters: 200 Years of Rail, 200 Years of People​As the UK celebrates 200 years of the railway, much of the spotlight rightly falls on achievements in infrastructure, innovation and growth. But behind every milestone are the people who keep the industry moving. This Mental Health Awareness Week, Ganymede is focusing on the wellbeing of those individuals by highlighting the work of its Mental Health First Aiders and the value of everyday support within the rail sector.​Listening First, Supporting Always​For Victoria Richards, Office Coordinator in Rail, trust is at the heart of her role as a Mental Health First Aider. Her colleagues often come to her because they feel safe opening up. Victoria explained that when asked to take on the training, she was glad to accept. She said, "Being a lady of a certain age, the operatives see me as a mother figure. When Gary asked me to attend the course, I was happy to expand my understanding of mental health further."Gary Lobue, Head of HSEQ, brings a broader perspective from across the business. He believes mental health support is essential in rail due to the unique pressures faced by the workforce. "Shift patterns, fatigue and job uncertainty all add pressure. People are often afraid to speak up, especially in a male-dominated industry."Suzanne Thorpe, Health and Safety Manager, agrees that support is critical, especially during periods of uncertainty. "Change can be a major trigger for mental health issues. Providing support helps people cope through uncertain times."​Training That Makes a Difference​Each of Ganymede’s Mental Health First Aiders has undertaken recognised training, but the true value often lies in listening and being present.Gary described a moment that left a lasting impression. "He needed someone who would listen, and I was that person." Taking time to truly hear someone’s experience had a positive impact when it mattered most.Victoria recalled when an operative turned to her shortly after a personal tragedy. "He sat with me and talked for two hours. I helped direct him to support, and he was so grateful."Suzanne added that even small actions carry great weight. "It is not always about grand gestures. Sometimes it is just taking the time to genuinely listen."​Shifting Attitudes​Progress is visible across the industry. Dave Carter, Head of Technical Resource for Rail, noted the shift in awareness and openness. "There is far more awareness now than there was 20 years ago. People are more open and self-aware."At Ganymede, mental health is now introduced as part of the induction process. Victoria shared, "It’s become normal to have conversations about it."Suzanne emphasised that lasting change depends on everyday leadership. "Support has to be consistent through line management, not just at the top."​Looking Ahead​The hope for the future is clear. By the time rail celebrates 250 years, Ganymede’s Mental Health First Aiders want to see an industry where stigma no longer prevents people from seeking help.Victoria put it simply. "Ideally it would be lovely to be rid of the stigma."Gary added that while mental health issues may never disappear entirely, awareness and openness will make a difference. "We will never eliminate mental health issues, but we can keep promoting awareness so people feel safe to speak up."As the rail industry looks toward the future, progress will be measured not only in miles of track or technical advancement, but also in the strength of its people. Supporting mental health today lays the foundation for a healthier, more resilient workforce in the years to come.​Read our previous blog: 200 Years of Rail: A Frontline Focus

​200 Years of Rail: A Frontline Focus​As the UK railway industry celebrates its 200th anniversary, it provides an opportunity to reflect not only on technological and infrastructural advancements, but also on the people whose work underpins the daily running of the rail network. Michael Dobson, who is our Recruitment Manager within the Transportation industry, heading our London office, shares his professional perspective on the evolution, continued relevance, and future of frontline roles in the sector. Drawing on his experience recruiting for positions such as train cleaners and customer-facing staff, he highlights the essential contribution these individuals make to the passenger experience and operational success of the railway.​Through the Lens of the Frontline: Then and Now​In recent years, the importance of frontline roles has become more visible. Particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, frontline workers remained active while much of the country came to a standstill, ensuring trains continued running and key workers could get to where they were needed most. This period highlighted the sheer dedication and resilience these roles demand, and began to shift public recognition toward the individuals behind the scenes.Train cleanliness, once an operational necessity carried out quietly in the background, is now a major focus for train operating companies. The bar for hygiene and presentation has risen sharply, with companies striving to meet the highest standards for both safety and customer satisfaction. At the same time, customer-facing roles have grown more complex and demanding. Staff must manage a wide variety of interactions - sometimes difficult ones - and provide a calm, clear presence during delays, cancellations, and busy travel periods. Their ability to communicate effectively and manage expectations directly impacts how passengers perceive their journey.​Why Frontline Roles Matter More Than Ever​In 2025, as more people return to regular commuting, these frontline roles have become more relevant than ever. Increased footfall across stations and trains means operators must deliver a consistently high standard of service, and this begins with having the right people on the ground.The reality of frontline work often includes tackling tough cleaning challenges, such as graffiti removal, waste left behind by passengers, and maintaining carriages in all weather conditions. Cleaners are the first line of defence in upholding quality and safety standards, often working through the night or in unpredictable environments.Customer service teams, meanwhile, must navigate a wide range of human behaviours. They are the face of the railway - responding to passenger needs, managing crowd control, and often delivering difficult messages during disruption. It’s a role that requires not just knowledge, but emotional intelligence, resilience, and professionalism.Train cleaning in progress​Supporting the Frontline Through Communication and Connection​Recognising the need to further support and celebrate these vital contributions, Ganymede has launched a new newsletter. This platform aims to keep the rail sector informed and connected by sharing updates, insights, and examples of best practice from across the network. In doing so, it creates space for valuable conversations about quality, workforce achievements, and opportunities to improve the passenger and employee experience alike.​Looking Ahead: The Future of Rail Recruitment​Looking to the future, frontline rail recruitment is expected to continue evolving. Emerging technologies, rising costs of living, and increased competition from other sectors will shape how train operating companies attract and retain talent. Pay, benefits, flexibility, and training opportunities will all play a key role. However, what will remain constant is the critical importance of these roles within the industry.For those considering a career in rail, frontline positions offer more than just a job - they provide hands-on experience, comprehensive training, peer support, and the chance to develop valuable communication and customer service skills. These roles serve as an ideal entry point into a dynamic and rewarding industry, offering the opportunity to make a tangible difference every single day.As we celebrate 200 years of railway heritage, it’s the perfect time to turn the spotlight on the individuals whose efforts too often go unnoticed. Through this new platform and continued recognition, Ganymede is proud to support the voices, challenges, and successes of the frontline teams shaping the future of rail.Read our previous blog: Accelerating Action: Ganymede's Women in Rail Reflect on IWD and 200 Years of Railway Progress

Ganymede Subcontractor Forum - April 2025​On Wednesday 2nd April 2025, the Ganymede rail team welcomed our valued partners to another successful Subcontractor Forum, hosted as part of our continued commitment to collaboration, transparency, and growth across the supply chain.​Our first session offered a deep dive into our current Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), reflecting on achievements and identifying areas of opportunity as we move forward together. Open and honest discussions around performance continue to be a cornerstone of how we strengthen delivery and build trust across our operations.​One of the standout sessions of the day was led by Fuel Learning, who delivered an inspiring workshop on Leadership Development. Focused on practical tools and behaviours that drive effective leadership, this session prompted great interaction and discussion, leaving our partners with fresh ideas and perspectives to take back to their teams.​We were also joined by Adrian Fricker from South Rail Systems Alliance, who provided a valuable industry insight on new, innovative technology to support the industry message of 'Home Safe, Every Day'.​The afternoon continued with a focus on operational excellence and responsibility. A session on Accident Investigation reinforced our shared commitment to safety, offering best practices and learning approaches that help prevent future incidents.​We closed with a look at our Carbon Accounting and Social Value initiatives, two areas where collaboration with our subcontractors is vital. As sustainability and social impact continue to grow in importance across the rail industry, we discussed practical steps to improve reporting and create meaningful outcomes together.​We wrapped up the day with an open floor session for any other business, followed by a thank you to all attendees for their ongoing support and input.​Thank you once again to everyone who attended and contributed. We’re proud to work alongside such dedicated partners and look forward to continuing the journey together.​

​​The Spring 2025 edition of Smart News, Ganymede’s quarterly Energy newsletter is now available to read.In this edition we focus on:General UpdatesA message from Joe Prestedge, Head of EnergyA welcome message to Damian Ciesielski and Matthew LambeOperations UpdateDelivering Excellence - Celebrating the achievements of our EngineersOnce a quarter we will announce winners of the Delivering Excellence awards, given to those who go above and beyond for our customers and fellow employeesCustomer feedback for our engineers​Spotlight on SafetyCable Strike IncidentProstate AwarenessDonations to MK food bank​Your Key ContactsThe Energy teamThe HSEQ team​Read the Spring 2025 Smart News Newsletter here​As always, we trust you will find the newsletter useful and engaging. If you have any questions or feedback after reading this edition of Smart News, please don't hesitate to get in touch using the form below.