Black Isle man employed by Stagecoach is up for national award for his role as Inverness Bus Station controller in the Highlands
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A LOYAL Stagecoach employee from the Black Isle has been recognised for the critical role he plays in keeping a major bus station moving.
Stevie Ross, from Kilcoybrae near Tore, has worked for Stagecoach for 27 years, initially starting his career with the company as a driver.
Following a spell in London supporting the Stagecoach contract delivering transport for the London Olympics in 2012, he became bus station controller in Inverness. Now he has made the final of the Scottish Transport Awards.
Mr Ross is among eight finalists in the frontline employee of the year category.
His role is key, particularly during the busy tourist season which can involve an extra 2000 people passing through the station each day.
Mr Ross navigates language barriers and offers advice to visitors. His organisational duties also encapsulate keeping visitors well informed in the station, and minimising the impact on local bus users during spells of increased demand. Despite all that, he was taken aback that his efforts could be rewarded on a national stage.
“I was really surprised to hear I made the final,” he said. “I’m just one part of a great team here in Inverness and everyone plays a really important role in keeping the services running well across Inverness and the Highlands.”
The awards last recognised a Highland team member in 2016 when Sammy Torrance,
of Inverness, was recognised for keeping the city moving after a city-centre fire which caused huge disruption to bus services.
David Beaton, managing director for Stagecoach Bluebird, said: “I’m really proud to have Stevie in our Highlands team.
“His commitment and dedication to his job has kept Inverness bus station running smoothly with any day-to-day challenges thrown his way. It is fantastic to see him recognised at the Scottish Transport Awards and whatever happens on the night, he will remain a star in our eyes.”
The awards ceremony takes place in Glasgow on September 24.
