Long Serving Managers Promoted

Business Manager Chris Speed

First Eastern Counties has seen the promotion of two of its long-serving existing managers.

Chris Speed has worked for First Bus for 15 years, starting as a bus driver for the Company following in his father’s footsteps. Chris quickly moved in to operations, and more recently was employed by First as Norwich Depot Operations Manager.

His new role as Business Manager will see him working closely with local management at depot level, providing support and encouragement on developing new ideas and progressing the existing operation.
Speaking about his new appointment, Chris said: "I am thrilled to be given this opportunity in Norfolk and Suffolk. This new role has been created within our structure to ensure the local management team are given enough support when we look to grow our Company.
“I will be working closely with our team in Ipswich at first, and I am excited to get started."

Fleet Engineer Mark Reynolds

Mark Reynolds has been appointed as Fleet Engineer for Eastern Counties. Mark started working as an apprentice for Great Yarmouth Transport in 1990.

Following First Bus' acquisition, he has been employed as Depot Manager for Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth, managing both operation and engineering functions.

Mark said: "My new role means I am responsible for all First Eastern Counties sites being engineering compliant, while delivering our Better Journeys for Life commitment and delivering our engineering efficiencies."

David Squire, Interim Managing Director for First Bus in Eastern Counties said: "Both Chris and Mark have a fantastic track record with our Company, and a great working relationship with our operational and engineering teams. The new Business Manager and Fleet Engineer roles will ensure First Eastern Counties always delivers on their commitment to customers, and shows we are forever looking at ways to grow and develop our business."

Chris will report to Eastern Counties General Manager Hugo Forster, and Mark will report directly to Interim Managing Director David Squire.