The RailStaff Awards 2024

Nominations for Rail Manager of the Year

Said the following about Karen Sherwin:

“I have met Karen many times on the platform at Bayford station after having recognised her from a Great Northern poster at the station.

I must say that whenever I have spoken to her, usually about a problem on my daily commute she is always cheerful and responsive, and considering she is hasn't even started “work " yet she is always ready to lend an ear and help where possible.

She is a great credit to your Company.“

Emma Sherwin

Said the following about Karen Sherwin:

“Karen works so hard to support her team at Finsbury Park and her hard work never goes unnoticed. Her work ethic and her support has a massive impact on the people who work around her. She supports her team at Finsbury Park for every Arsenal match without fail, every festival. She witnessed the worst thing possible in the railway industry but still stayed to support the staff who were on shift and it was only a few months ago that she saved a young girls life by sitting with her and speaking to her until the police came. Karen is a credit to GTR and her work needs to be recognised.“

Martin Brown

Said the following about Karen Sherwin:

“Karen has been a massive support to me since the first day I have started working for Great Northern. I unfortunately was diagnosed with Leukaemia a few years ago and Karen was the biggest support for me, she went above and beyond to support me, check up on me, she was visiting me every week in hospital, and give me the reassurance I needed. The support Karen gives her staff and the colleagues that work around her is something that should be made an example of. I wouldn't have been able to stay so positive if it wasn't for Karen, her support and just her heart that really is pure gold. She would organise to see me every week to keep me going and give me the positive attitude that I needed throughout that time. I've now slowly been coming back to work, and after two years of continuous support, Karen has still stuck by my side and has helped me with the return to work with the upmost support. Karen has mentored me throughout my career in the railway, and before taking time out of work, my success was amazing due to her, and her support for me throughout. Karen's kind heart stands out to countless people on the GN route, and she has always been a listening ear to anybody that needs it. I can honestly say, that if it wasn't for Karen, her kind heart and her endless support then I would not be where I am today without her. She is a credit to our company and I am privileged to have worked with her. She is an inspiration to so many people, including myself.“

Ben Smith

Said the following about Karen Sherwin:

“I’d like to nominate Karen Sherwin for Rail Manager of the year as not only is she a supportive and encouraging manager she is also a truly excellent professional.

I owe a personal debt of gratitude as Karen was the one who hired me from the Princes Trust and for that I’ll always be grateful.

I have been struggling with mental health issues for the last few months and Karen has gone above and beyond the call of duty to help and support and advice during this difficult time.

She truly is a remarkable manager and a remarkable lady who deserves this award for her endless hard work and commitment not only to her staff but to the company as a whole.“

Sadik Daria

Said the following about Karen Sherwin:

“She's understanding and a very approachable Manager.

The best manager I've worked with!“