It is one week until the winners are chosen at the Rail Staff Awards 2025, and it is time that we talk about our finalists. We are extremely proud to see six nominations of our staff going through as Rail Staff Awards finalists, showcasing just how integral our staff are to rail operations across our cleaning, security, hard FM services and more.
Starting with our support functions, we have been fortunate enough to have two individuals as finalists for their impact on rail operations.
Tim Leach | Operational Reporting Analyst
Within our IT Team, Operational Reporting Analyst Tim Leach has been nominated within the Innovation and Technology category for his remarkable support on the Arriva Rail London (ARL) contract, particularly for developing bespoke data collection forms that have streamlined operations and improved staff development. His innovative solutions have led to greater efficiency, enhanced KPI results, and stronger client relations, reflecting his commitment to excellence and collaboration.
Mary Machado | HR Advisor
In the HR Category, HR Advisor Mary Machado has been nominated for her significant growth since becoming an HR Advisor in November 2023. During her time in the team, she has proactively developed her skills, having recently qualified as a Mental Health First Aider and in her role now supports around 2,000 Security South employees. Mary provides comprehensive HR guidance focused on employee relations and has led the company’s first EDI strategy and training, as she consistently promotes diversity, inclusion, and professional development within the company.
Dorothy Omovbude and Dorian Jacobs | Arriva Rail London
Within the lifesaver category, frontline employees Dorothy Omovbude and Dorian Jacobs from our Arriva Rail London (ARL) contract have been nominated as finalists for their professionalism and composure during two separate issues where their humanity shone through as they looked to protect and save the individuals involved in these critical and sensitive situations. The key message of these occurrences is that if they had not acted, these events would have had very different results due to their quick thinking, calm leadership, and dedication to their passengers.
Event Supervisor Team | Arriva Rail London
Within the Station Staff Team or Person Award, Louise Harrison’s ARL Event Supervisor Team have been nominated for their outstanding leadership, professionalism, and dedication during a series of high-profile events at Tottenham Stadium.
Across the team of six, the team lead all major events and football events with their team of over 30 staff.
Keeley Rees and Shola Ola | Arriva Rail London
Also within the Station Staff category, ARL Revenue Security Officers, Keeley Rees and Shola Ola, were nominated for their exceptional vigilance, leadership and teamwork in tackling persistent fare evasion.
Taking the initiative to stop a persistent evader, they took the lead in coordinating a well-planned, multi-agency response. They ensured staff were positioned at key areas, monitored live CCTV, and liaised closely with British Transport Police to intercept the individual safely and effectively.
When the fare evader attempted to slip through the gate again, Keeley and Shola acted quickly – challenging the individual, preventing an escape, and securing the necessary details.
Congratulations to all finalists and those nominated. Whether nominated or a finalist, everyone involved should be incredibly proud of the work achieved to merit a nomination. We wish our six finalists all the best for the Rail Staff Awards on Thursday 28th November.




