Word Worker press release:
A new operations manager is in the driving seat at Swindon transport company Akcess.
Richard Fudge is now running day-to-day operations at the not-for-profit, community interest company, which provides school transport and transport for wheelchair users and elderly people with mobility problems.
As well as overseeing operations for Akcess CIC, he is responsible for operations within its sister company, Akcess Medical, which provides non-emergency patient transport services (NEPTS) in Swindon, Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire.
A former soldier, Yorkshire-born Richard served in the British Army for 22 years, reaching the rank of Regimental Careers Warrant Officer. He had started his service career as a driver and before he came out was doing a role similar to his operations manager position at Akcess.
On leaving the Army, he took an operations manager role at a smaller transport company, before joining Akcess.
Supporting him in the operations team at Akcess are Allister Monaghan, who looks after Akcess CIC, and Emma Kennedy, who looks after Akcess Medical.
“I am really enjoying working at Akcess. It’s the best thing I’ve done since leaving the Army,” he said. “It’s a big operation, with lots to do.”
Akcess has more than 100 vehicles, over 100 staff and operates nearly 100 school contracts for Swindon, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire councils, as well as day centre transport contracts for Swindon.
At least two-thirds of its vehicles have wheelchair access, more than any other transport company in Wiltshire.
Mark Kennedy, Akcess operations director, said: “Richard is perfect for the role. With all the training he has had in the Forces he has the skillset and knowledge we need to ensure our transport operation runs smoothly.”
For more information, visit Akcess or call 01793 855550.