After a fantastic 2023, Aura is pleased to share the following new role appointments within our Rail Division.
Ben McCulloch has accepted a new position within the company as National Account Manager. With over 20 years in the industry, Ben brings a wealth of experience to his new role.
Ben started out as a graphics installer in 2003 before progressing to Team Leader, Senior Team Leader and Project Manager. Over his impressive 10-year tenure as Project Manager, Ben demonstrated dedication to continuous development. From completing courses such as Prince2 and IOSHH Managing Safety to managing all manner of rail projects and PTS licenced work from repairs and refurbishments to full exterior wraps, fleet debrands and rebrands. This proven track record positions Ben perfectly to continue to service the industry and nurture customer relationships as National Account Manager for Aura.
Ben says, “Working with the planning and practical aspects Aura carry out, has really helped support me in understanding how jobs are carried out at every level. It’s given me the confidence and knowledge discussing in-depth works with customers now, at the front end of the process.
I look forward to leveraging my experience to strengthen relationships and foster growth within the rail sector at Aura.”
Aura is also pleased to announce John Bekalo’s promotion from National Account Manager to Head of Sales for Rail, and Nicola McGuire’s new role as Customer Engagement Manager. John is tasked with growing and developing our rail sector business, whilst taking management responsibility of the wider rail team.
John has collectively worked at Aura for over 10 years, starting in installations administration, through to sales where he’s dedicated the last 5 years prior to his promotion.
John says, “I’m excited to continue to work with our customers and partners in the supply chain, developing in my role and supporting the industry.”
As Customer Engagement Manager, Nicola’s focus is building and maintaining lasting customer relationships, being the primary point of contact between the Aura rail team and our customers.
Nicola and John will attend all key rail events and networking opportunities on behalf of Aura whilst determining business development opportunities and relationships.
Nicola is also the Women in Rail East Midlands regional chair and together with her committee organises career development, health and wellbeing, mentoring and social events for Women in Rail members in the East Midlands region and beyond. She is also STEM Ambassador and is passionate about encouraging the next generation to engage in STEM subjects at school to inspire them to work towards a career in the rail industry.
Craig Illingworth has been promoted to Senior Project Manager for Rail, with a remit to establish a standard process complete with supporting metrics across all of our market sectors.
Adrian Depledge is now Project Manager for Rail using his skills to advise the sales team at the front end of the projects, with his in-depth knowledge of paint and the rail industry.
Aura’s Rail division is assisted by Rail Internal Account Managers Kathryn Lewis, Shirley Wicks and Luke Hockings, who’s industry experience amounts to over 55 years.
Tim Locke, Director of Rail Division, continues to support the Rail team with his expertise in the industry.
We look forward to the continued success and collaborative opportunities these appointments will bring to Aura and the rail sector.
