Women in Rail - Arriva Rail London

At Arriva Rail London, we recognise the vital role that women play in shaping the future of rail transportation and strive to ensure that everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to grow and develop. From driving innovation to fostering inclusivity, women bring diverse perspectives and unparalleled expertise to every aspect of our operations.

As part of our talent acquisition strategy, we utilise the Women in Rail job board with the goal of changing the perception of the rail industry, to make it more attractive and accessible to women.

Find out more about just some of the brilliant women who keep our network running for thousands of passengers every day.

Elizabeth Umoke, Head of Revenue Protection and Security

Elizabeth Umoke, head of revenue protection and security, won the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Individual Award at the Women in Rail Awards 2023.

Alongside her very busy role within the business, Elizabeth led ARL’s EDI agenda for the three years, working closely with external partners to establish best practice for EDI within the company and the wider Arriva Group, with the goal to have an impact on the industry as a whole.

Violeta Caloianu, Train Presentation Supervisor

“I supervise around 20 traincare colleagues on the route between Stratford and Euston. I enjoy being out and about, but also the challenge of learning new skills, especially people management and using technology.

“I’ve always been confident but also enjoy learning new things, and colleagues and managers have always encouraged me. My advice to anyone wanting to build a career at ARL is that support is always available if you ask. There are also opportunities to take on new roles if you want them – especially if you are persistent and willing to challenge yourself.”

Rohini Maistry, Revenue Protection Inspector

“I’ve been with ARL for ten years, previously working as a conductor. I became a revenue protection inspector because the shift patterns suited my work-life balance well.

“We get the chance to travel up and down the network chatting to customers and meeting their kids; time goes past very fast in this role. It’s exciting that when I get up in the morning, I have no idea how my day will turn out – it’s always different.”

Sophia Kolokotroni, Operations Manager

“I look after the North area, overseeing drivers and the driver management team and ensuring that we have resources in place, with the right competencies.

“It’s frontline teams who are often closest to the key issues, and who know how to fix them. It’s part of my role to empower them to do this.

“I enjoy helping people build their careers, and making sure they’ve got what they need to succeed. I know from my own experience that there are opportunities for everyone at ARL, and they have a good record of promoting from within.”

Grace-Anne Stephenson, Station Assistant Dispatch

“The role is much more than dispatching trains. Whenever customers ask me for assistance, I will always help as best I can.

“We can be guides if they are lost, counsellors and even carers if they are unwell. I always put myself in their shoes and ask myself how I would want to be treated?”

“For me, working with customers is just a natural part of my character. I enjoy being around people and I love the job.”