Train operator ‘recognised for excellence’

Train operator ‘recognised for excellence’

Northern Rail is celebrating having achieved five star level accreditation in the ‘Recognised for Excellence’ programme. Five stars is the highest award achievable and Northern Rail is only the eighteenth company in the UK to receive this level of accreditation.

The prestigious accolade comes hot on the heels of the SSP Train Operator of the Year award Northern received at this month’s Rail Business Awards, marking a successful start to 2011 for the UK’s largest rail operator.

‘Recognised for Excellence’ is part of the European Foundation for Quality Management’s levels of excellence programme and is designed for companies on their way to organisational excellence. The programme is based on an external analysis of an organisation’s overall performance and achievements and helps the organisation focus on what is important for its future.

Ian Bevan, Managing Director, Northern Rail said: “We’re delighted to have achieved a five star rating in the Recognised for Excellence programme. It rewards our commitment to embedding quality standards across our organisation, and this award is recognition of our continued drive to improve the service we offer our customers and the way we do our business.

“The fact we are among only a small number of organisations in Europe who have achieved this excellence rating is a major accolade and a testament to the dedication of all our employees.”

Joe Goasdoué, Chief Executive, British Quality Foundation, added: “Being awarded Recognised for Excellence at the highest level - Five Star - is a major distinction for any organisation.

“Northern Rail has demonstrated that it is committed to achieving superior levels of performance throughout the company and thoroughly deserves this recognition. We will do everything we can to support Northern Rail as they continue their excellence journey.”