Alice Owen

Said the following about Liam Stanley:

“Liam Stanley is a model employee. Joining the business six years ago as an apprentice on the shop floor, his industriousness, dedication and overall personal effectiveness have seen him rise steadily in the ranks to one of the most senior posts within the Liverpool operation. This year, he was appointed acting deputy head of production. While still very young, his dynamism and capacity to solve problems are proving inspirational to all around him. He is an invaluable asset to Stadler and has a great future within the rail industry.

Stellar Qualities

A proactive problem-solver

One of Liam’s finest achievements to date is the critical role he played in resolving the problem with train bearings on the legacy fleet in May 2022, which resulted in the loss of more than half of the trains overnight. He devised a programme of work to fix them, working closely with multiple stakeholders. The road map he developed resulted in trains being brought back into passenger service within four weeks.

A can-do attitude

Liam’s flexibility, industriousness and willingness to assist have all enabled him to flourish at Stadler and have helped drive operational efficiency within the business.

In 2020, having just completed his apprenticeship, he offered to go to Switzerland on a fact-finding mission in relation to the new Class 777 trains being manufactured there. He garnered information about them, which was used to shape working methods and training on this new fleet. He also passed on his knowledge of the two Liverpool depots, which fed into the final design stages of the new trains.

The role he played on this trip supported the smooth roll-out of the fleet from January 2023. It meant that teething problems were mitigated early on, so minimising disruption for passengers.

Leadership and maturity

Another of Liam’s many qualities is his ability to build effective working relations and operate successfully in a team. Entirely of his own initiative, Liam has taken it on himself to train new starters, taking many under his wing, and instructing them on different competencies. This has enhanced their confidence and made them feel more secure doing jobs alone.

Strong interpersonal skills

Liam has a strong and genuine desire to help others. When a colleague was on long-term sick leave, Liam telephoned and visited him regularly at his home to give support.

Community spirit

Liam is a member of the company’s engagement committee, a voluntary initiative. Last year, he undertook the Three Peaks challenge and organised coffee mornings for Macmillan, Stadler’s charity of the year, at all Stadler’s UK sites which raised £750. He is arranging another round of coffee mornings this month. Liam is determined to raise more than £1,000.

Testimonial

Paul Patrick, Managing Director, Stadler Rail Service UK

“A young leader who demonstrates all of the attributes we strive for in our business. He has also undertaken leadership training in order to underpin the knowledge he has gained from his experience. Definitely one to watch for the future of our business.”“