Abu Siddeeq

Said the following about Paul McGunnigle-White:

“I’m nominating Paul for this award because he exemplifies all the right behaviours for someone who is truly trying to drive inclusivity within the railway, and not for any personal glory or gain.

What I admire the most about Paul is his humility in acknowledging where he doesn’t have knowledge on a subject or characteristic and he’s not beyond asking questions to learn more about it – because it supports a greater cause, issue or colleague. Paul has formed some really strong relationships with colleagues from across c2c, frontline through to Exec and this has helped him to deliver some real change and to raise some challenging conversations that will ultimately help to take the organisation forward. Paul has also been recognised by his industry peers who have given him extra opportunities which not only boost Paul’s own profile, and confidence but also firmly put c2c on the map as a progressive organisation that is aiming to better itself. This includes most recently chairing an industry Exec panel where he presented a session on driving inclusivity across the industry and the role of Exec members within organisations – this was a challenging conversation and one which was made easier by Paul’s personable and warm style.

Paul is also a key and respected member of the EDI Charter group, which has over 200 signatory organisations and was kicked off jointly between Women in Rail and the Railway Industry Association.

Recently, at a senior leadership conference, Paul helped develop an excellent session for all managers to take part in – around Deaf awareness. A video was developed and shared throughout the company too and on social media and it received huge endorsement. Paul was also instrumental in helping c2c to celebrate the role of the railway in the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush at Tilbury Docks, 75 years earlier. It was a wonderful opportunity for the railway to recognise its part in history and for the community to embrace the national-level event that occurred on the railway. As part of these celebrations, Paul interviewed a member of the local community who had arrived as part of the Windrush generation – it was a moving and powerful conversation which was a testament to Paul’s passion for the subject.

Something which makes Paul and the role he does quite unique is that he is balancing up his EDI role with his substantive role, which is that of company Treasurer, within the Finance function. This additional challenge is something which Paul revels in and he is never caught short on either of his positions.

Paul wants to make c2c and the Railway a better and more inclusive place to work and he is going about it the right way – finding engagement, support and sponsorship from all levels and challenging where he recognises shortfalls. Paul deserves to be shortlisted and to win this award for all the hard work, passion, time and effort he puts in.“