Recruitment
“Not just a thoroughly nice guy, a great manager and an expert in his field of ground engineering but Andy is 'loved' by everyone who has ever worked with him both inside Van Elle and client-side. Having joined Van Elle from school, he has excelled in many roles over the years from operating rigs to most recently leading the contracts team for the restricted access piling division. With his contagious enthusiasm, technical knowledge and unequalled people skills, there was no one better to head-up Van Elle Rail from its inception in May 2013. Since then, he has led the specialist on-track rail division to become the market leader in terms of project success, safety, efficiency and many other important aspects by delivering innovative solutions using the most reliable, capable and modern fleet of any company operating in the UK. Of course, Van Elle Rail is a team but Andy leads by example and has surrounded himself with some of the industry's most experienced and most sought after rail professionals enabling a smooth transition into this challenging environment whilst maintaining unparalleled services and building an envied reputation.
Andy's planning skills are second-to-none and often highlight potential issues before they occur enabling them to be prevented. He always ensures that everyone knows exactly what they are doing in every shift and when they are doing it avoiding uncertainty and confusion; potential safety hazards.
His rapport with clients is excellent, quickly gaining their trust and letting them know they can rely upon him and his team to propose and install the ultimate solution efficiently and safely achieving the required results every time. He is a coach for the IIF (Incident & Injury Free) programme with 2 of his colleagues and regularly attends training leading his team from the front. His experience of off-track solutions also enables him to consider all alternative solutions, even if they don't yet exist for the on-track environment, often benefiting a project's programme, budget and reducing risk.
His unique management style has gained the respect of colleagues, clients and suppliers alike and his ability to listen and value others knowledge and experiences has resulted in innovation, investment and significant progress for the entire industry. He is reliable, courteous, respectful, honest and¦ inspirational.
There are a number of categories which I could have nominated Andy Howard for and he would have been a worthy winner in any, however, it is his relationship with his team and his project management skills which really sets him apart... and the fact that he always has a smile on his face.“
“Thoroughly nice gentleman, who is dynamic and innovative in his approach to the industry that he works within.“
“A pleasure to work with, providing an excellent service.
Always produce innovative practical solutions and committed to the success of a project.“
“During my time at Volkerfitzpatrick I have met Andy on several occasions. He is always very supportive of his staff, encourages them and supports them in their careers and ensures that any individual training needs are met to ensure that his staff are the best they can be. He is well respected by members of his team and as important, well respected by his clients“
“As a subcontractor to Lundy Projects on numerous occasions, Andy has always shown an attitude of collaboration and dedication to ensure the projects' success. His ability to quickly react to change is also an attribute that goes a long way in the rail industry. In addition to his high level of technical and managerial expertise, Andy is also a very approachable and pleasant individual.“
“I have nominated Andy Howard for this award because of his professional approach to the Rail Industry. Van Elle is a young company and Andy is leading from the front.“
“Andy would be a very worthy recipient of the Rail Manager of The Year Award as he is a natural leader and he leads by example. He is very approachable and he has helped our company develop during our time dealing with Van Elle Rail.“
“Andy is a valued behavioural safety coach within the VolkerFitzpatrick Incident and Injury Free programme. Andy's involvement in the IIF programme demonstrates his positive attitude towards health and safety and willingness to lead by example.“
“We were absolutely thrilled to sponsor and attend the RailStaff awards. It was a remarkable event for all across the industry. A huge congratulations to everyone who was nominated, and shortlisted and to those who won! The stories and achievements were truly inspiring. I am proud to be part of such an innovative and supportive industry.”
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