Oxford Bus Company intern Adam keeps it in the family

Adam Marsden, a transport management student at Aston University in Birmingham, will combine the next year planning bus routes with driving as part of his one-year placement.

The 20-year-old joins Oxford Bus Company as a Network Coordinator three years after his uncle, Paul Marsden, retired following 30 years of service driving buses on Oxfordshire’s roads.

Adam’s internship will see him work in the planning department working across Oxford Bus Company, Thames Travel, Carousel and City Sightseeing Oxford services.

The Oxford resident said being able to provide customers with the best possible service by solving problems quickly has helped him develop a strong understanding of working effectively within a team.

“No two days are the same at Oxford Bus Company,” said Adam. “My uncle Paul worked here for a very long time driving on the 300 Park & Ride service and enjoyed every day of his job, it’s easy to understand why.

“Tackling fresh challenges each day in a fast-paced but friendly environment really makes me want to work in route planning when I’m older. I enjoy the challenges we are set and trying to source the most efficient ways of completing tasks.

“Making small improvements to our countywide and regional services to improve customer satisfaction is what the role is all about. This means every day presents a new challenge and its why I enjoy my role most.”

Adam is the second intern that Oxford Bus Company has offered development opportunities to.

Glenn DeSousa also joined the company this summer as a Graduate Trainee following his previous internship after he completed the same degree that Adam is currently studying. Glenn hopes that his experience will lead to a long and successful management career within the transport industry.

Internships allow students to gain relevant skills in their sector of interest and establish strong industry contacts while being paid for it. Adam said developing his knowledge of working in a professional environment and his role’s flexibility are what attracted him to Oxford Bus Company.

“I knew from my uncle that Oxford Bus Company would be a great place to develop,” said Adam. “They really care about the people who work for them.

“I feel very fortunate to combine my working hours with the planning team and driving routes many of our customers depend on.

“Being out in the community serving Oxfordshire’s roads has really helped me understand what is required to make our services even more enjoyable and reliable. Customer satisfaction is so important in the transport sector, which is why engaging with people who use our services is so important. It’s definitely made me realise a career in transport planning is something I want to pursue.”

Phil Southall, Oxford Bus Company Managing Director said: “Our internship programme is an excellent way for students and graduates to gain experience and for us as a company to attract and recruit young talented people who are the future of the industry.”