New coal HQ and coal appointment

Following on-going business growth within the coal sector, rail freight haulier First GBRf has opened a new coal headquarters in Doncaster and created a new role as Head of Coal within its operation.

The new office will home the coal planning and roster team, making it First GBRf’s official coal headquarters.

John Smith, Managing Director at First GBRf said: “We are really excited about the opening of our new office in the heart of the UK’s coal operation.It will not only add to our existing facilities in the Port of Tyne and PetePeterborough, but also because of its location, management of our coal business will now become local to the customer, allowing us to further strengthen our relationships with coal suppliers and users.”

Over the last six months First GBRf has not only increased payload per wagon, but also train lengths for coal customers, EdF Energy, British Energy and Drax Power. By working closely with suppliers it has been able to maximise fill at loading slots to enable wagons to carry higher tonnage, giving customers the best value possible from First GBRf coal services.

Taking on the new role as Head of Coal will be First GBRf’s contract manager Phil Webster. Having worked in the railway industry for over 30 years Webster will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the post, with previous roles including head of customer service for the coal division at EWS and prior to that various positions within the coal sector for British Rail.

Webster said: “I have worked within the coal market for more than fifteen years so for me this is something of a homecoming.  I am really exciting about the opportunities ahead and I am looking forward to working closely with our suppliers to further improve our coal operation.”

Source: Transportweekly