Infrastructure support services provider SWGR is aiming to spearhead future safety innovations in the industry after appointing the former Nexus Head of Health, Safety, Training, Quality and Environment as its Head of HSQE.

Mike Bennett has more than 35 years of experience in the rail industry, working across many operational and safety roles in the industry. Mike has been involved in many projects over his career to streamline processes which improves safety from an operations perspective by implementing practical improvements.

Mike joins the business as Head of HSQE during a time of exciting opportunities for SWGR across the country.

SWGR has continued to innovate when it comes to safety through its Safe Together initiative, which has improved access to health and mental wellbeing services for all colleagues, as well as digitalising processes which aim to reduce the potential for accidents and incidents. On top of this, through a WorkSafe App, SWGR is able to audit more effectively to ensure it is implementing and monitoring safety practices as much as it can.

Mike said: “I have spent a lot of time in the rail industry – it is a sector I am passionate about, and I have loved working in it for years. I was looking at winding down my career, but when the SWGR team spoke to me about the opportunity that was available, it was something I could not turn down.

“This business is forward-thinking and progressive when it comes to safety. It has some very strong management systems in place and I am excited to do my part in making sure they work effectively.

“In our line of work, there is always the risk for an accident or incident. However, SWGR is a business about doing the right thing, and doing it well. I am looking forward to being part of this fantastic team.”

Raj Sinha, Group Managing Director for SWGR, said: “Mike’s experience in the sector is significant and his work with Nexus has been brilliant.

“Safety is our major priority in this business and we wanted someone in this position that not only has the experience to do the job well, but someone that has a forward-thinking mentality and helps to innovate and create new ways of being safer and ensuring everyone gets home safely every day.

“We are delighted to have Mike on board as we make sure that we are all Safe Together.”