The RailStaff Awards 2024

Nominations for Rail Manager of the Year

Colin Green

Said the following about Ajith Pillai:

“I want to nominate Ajith based solely on the help and support he gives our team at Brighton. Ajith is in charge of the train Crew (OBS & Conductors) along with us managers. Over the past year Ajith has had to deal with his own personal health issue which most would be off for a very long time but Ajith was at the end of a phone or an e-mail if anyone ever needed him. He has supported all us managers and engaged with us like no other manager I have worked with. His hours are ridiculous and his work load is extremely big but that never gets in the way if any of us need him that goes for train crew as well as managers.

In regards to work and Managing us, he is approachable, friendly, understanding and patient but strict and stern when needed, he always manages to get his point over without raising his voice or going into one like so many do.

I can honestly say that all the staff love him here in Brighton just because he takes the time to listen anytime anywhere.

I for one have improved as a manager, and with his help I did some self-reflection which changed the way I look at things and stops me getting stressed, not many would go as far as he does.

Staff apart he has turned Brighton and Eastbourne depots around and made them a success which many previous managers have failed to do.“