Recruitment
“Having joined the Van Elle Group as POS/Compliance Manager in the company's infancy, Richard has been instrumental in building the specialist on-track rail business, Van Elle Rail, into the market leader it is today. Although not the largest contractor by turnover, project success, client satisfaction, reputation, reliability, safety and investment in plant remain unchallenged.
Richards responsibilities involve him taking a lead role in the specification of new plant. His approach to working with suppliers to develop kit capable of addressing the requirements of modern projects has, not only, greatly benefited Van Elle but the industry as a whole. As a result, the fleet includes 2 of the worlds only 4 tracked Colmar RRVs, the only 3 Movax telescopic soil drills in the UK, we were the first UK based company to import Predator trailers and we have in-house rail capabilities greater than any other Ground Engineering contractor.
Still in only the second full year of operating on-track, Richard, with the assistance of both the safety and quality teams, has been required to write and implement the relevant procedures to ensure we are the best in all aspects of rail work. Not only has this led to us becoming a Plant Operating Scheme (POS) provider with the maximum star rating but a Network Rail Principal Contractors Licence (PCL) holder. Under Richards guidance, Van Elle Rail has been audited on a number of occasions by clients and we are regularly praised for our systems and processes which ensure the safety and efficiency of our operations. His wealth of experience has resulted in him having many industry contacts and coupled with his understanding of the rail environment, has meant that the company has benefited from his hands-on approach to recruitment. For this reason, we have a very low staff turnover rate and Van Elle now has more than 120 full-time PTS trained members of staff.
His years as an RRV driver, crane controller, plant instructor and his safety back ground places him in the perfect position to fully understand the challenges faced on projects as well as the capabilities and requirements of the plant being used. His involvement in managing large, challenging projects has also built on our reputation as the UKs premium supplier of ground engineered solutions whether on-track or off.
On top of all this Richard is a proud family man, a thoroughly nice guy to work with and a fountain of knowledge who always makes time for his colleagues.“
“He is top man!“
“Richard and his team at Van Elle have bent over backwards to help us with the delivery of a difficult and challenging project. They have always been proactive in their dealings with us.“
“Richard has helped in the development Van Elle's thriving rail division with his expert rail plant knowledge.
He is nicknamed 'Arfur' within the Office as he get's things completed in half the time!!!“
“I have nominated Richard and his team at Van Elle Rail because of the professional way they go about their business and meeting the tight deadlines set by each job. Richard is a credit to the Van Elle Rail Team!“
“Richard was our first point of contact at Van Elle Rail and I can only say good things about him. He is full of industry knowledge and advice that has enabled us to make the correct decisions to deliver the best possible trailer for Van Elle Rail. Never say never attitude and always available for a chat and very accommodating no matter how busy he may be. Outstanding individual.“
“He is a very enthusiastic and a very capable professional in all aspects of rail and contract management and has personally been of great assistance and support over the last 24 months.“
“I have not meet Richard but talk with him on the phone. Always willing to help should I have any questions. Great chap.“
“Very helpful person. Nothing is a problem when talking with Richard.“
“Thanks for a great evening.”
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