The RailStaff Awards 2024

Nominations for Lifetime Achievement

Emilia Zarychta

Said the following about Ian Brown:

“Ian Brown started his railway journey as an Engineering Apprentice.

One of the most courageous works he’s done was being part of the rescue engineering team following Clapham Junction tragic collision in 1988. He took an active part working tirelessly days and nights supporting emergency services.

Over the years Ian has moved to the safety team to make positive change and improve working practices.

He’s introduced OHSAS 18001, OHSAS 14001 and recently ISO 45001 safety and environmental management systems to the Engineering function.

He’s constantly trying to find creative ways to improve safety like introducing online inspections, online inductions, QR code briefs and QR code COSHH assessments.

His innovative and approachable management style makes him a great and inspirational Leader.

In recent years under his leadership Engineering Department won ROSPA Gold award and CorporateLiveWire Innovation & Excellence Winner award.

Getting closer to retirement, the Life Achievement Award would mean a lot to him and we can’t think of the more deserving person to receive it.“

Arun James

Said the following about Ian Brown:

“As far as I know, Ian joined the railway in his teens. His contribution to the rail industry is beyond ones imagination. I was fascinated with the stories Ian shared with me and quite interestingly the transformation in rail culture from British rail to privatisation. Ian brings in a lot of energy and passion into the team. He is very positive and optimistic, at the same time cares about his team to bring us together to achieve business objectives. He inspires people to follow their ambitions and encourages thinking outside the box.

Ian brings in a lot of knowledge and expertise to the industry from his experience in the railway and he certainly deserves a Lifetime Achievement Award for all his hard work and passion.“

Angela Gheniu

Said the following about Ian Brown:

“Starting as an engineering apprentice, more than 30 years ago, he has gained knowledge and experience, in all engineering departments, with a focus on the safety side as this has brought him close to the people and ensured a safe working environment for his colleagues to work in.

I am fascinated by the dedication and passion Ian demonstrates every day, by being available 24/7 and getting involved in any process improvements, going above and beyond to ensure a safe working place for all engineering colleagues.

He has been leading the fleet safety team for a lifetime and shared his knowledge and experience with all of us, giving the best advice to support our development and safety professionalism building.

In moments of crisis, he managed to bring all departments together under one scope and make informed decisions to take appropriate actions. With the right choice of words and his listening qualities, he has been supporting not only his team but other colleagues in difficult times.

I am very grateful and privileged to be working with Ian and happy to be able to show this by nominating him for this award that he deserves.“

Andrew Mahoney

Said the following about Ian Brown:

“Ian started in Rail engineering more than 30 years ago as an apprentice (longer than I've been in this world)

Ian has worked on a multitude of engineering projects from 313 to ISO45001 certification to GTR engineering.

Ian Has brought Safety to the forefront within GTR engineering through his vast amount of experience, knowledge, Passion, and care that he gives 24/7. he has gained all of this throughout his vast time within the railway.

Ian Truely deserves this award with the time, effort, passion, dedication and time spent on the railway.“