Simon Theaker

Said the following about Jo Fappiano:

“I would like to nominate Jo Fappiano, Bridgeway’s Planning & resource manager, for the title of Rail Manager of the year for 2015. Jo has a very modest demeanour and endearing personality, her whole-hearted approach to work and professional leadership through her management skills are a credit to herself and to Bridgeway. Jo’s positive can-do attitude, dedication and approachable management style is infectious within her team and extends to the client interface. I can say first hand from the clients perspective, it is a pleasure to work with such a reliable, respectful and supportive individual.

Jo joined Bridgeway on the 3rd April 2006, without any railway experience. Following this career defining move, Jo has been proactive in learning the trade and had progressed exceptionally within the company. Jo has learnt the necessary knowledge to assist her everyday working life and also holds the following railway competencies PTS, IWA, Possession Assistant, SSOWP and PDSW Planner, to name but a few. With these skills to hand, Jo has the confidence and expertise to pass this knowledge on to her peers. This skill, brings new colleagues into the railway environment in a very safety conscientious manner.

Having spoken to some of Jo’s colleagues, whom she has taken under her wing, the comments are a credit to Jo and her management skills:

“Jo is a fantastic manager, her leadership skills are second to none, she always has time for us and the clients that she works with. Jo is more than happy to give advice, whether it be at 8am or 11pm she is always on the end of the phone in a positive, calm, controlled manner and is a pleasure to work for.”

As I am writing this nomination on behalf of Jacobs, I can state that; Jo gained the trust of our company quickly and we have had an ongoing, positive working relationship for over 6 years, this is a testament to Jo’s work ethic and behaviours.

Jo has managed the planning and resource on several of Network Rail’s prestigious projects such as, Kings Cross Remodelling, Yorkshire Platform Extensions and Derby remodelling, bringing to the table initiative planning solutions along with providing the right level of protection staff to ensure the work is complete. During Jo’s time working on the Euston project Jo regularly faced access challenges due to change in worksites at late notice beyond her control, however, Jo’s management capability along with her close knit team provided a key client with the overall solution that they were looking for. Jo’s organisation, communication, and problem solving skills make her a fantastic manager. Jo heads up her team from Bridgeway’s head office in Nottingham, however is operationally active at weekends, always with a smile, which can brighten any night shift. Jo never shy’s away from a challenge, and leads by example.

Outside of work Jo is a mother of one, balancing home and work life perfectly: as such, she is a true inspiration to any female professional looking to join the railway industry. In her spare time Jo likes to bake and organises fund raising for MacMillan, showing what a kind-hearted and hardworking individual she truly is.“