The Stephensons of Essex managing director and ALBUM Chair has been awarded an MBE in the Kings’ Birthday Honours List for services to transport
Bill Hiron, Chair of ALBUM (the Association of Local Bus Managers) since 2018 and Managing Director of Stephensons of Essex, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List for services to passenger transport.
Bill’s career in the bus industry spans nearly 40 years. He has been a fervent advocate for the sector, playing a key role in representing the interests of local bus operators at a national level. During his tenure as Chair of ALBUM, Bill has championed initiatives to improve passenger experience, promote the environmental benefits of bus travel, and navigate the challenges faced by the industry throughout the pandemic.
New Vice Chair of ALBUM and Managing Director of Nottingham City Transport David Astill said: “We are not surprised at all to see Bill receive an MBE for services to passenger transport. The industry has seen many changes and challenges over the period of Bill’s time as Chair, and he has led ALBUM with professionalism and focus, offering insight for our membership on matters ranging from accessibility to fare capping, and to the ongoing recovery post-pandemic which has seen many of our members struggle to get back on track with driver recruitment and passenger recovery.”
David added: “Bill has dedicated much of his time to engaging with policymakers to ensure that small to medium operators have a voice. His focus is on achieving results rather than seeking recognition, so this is so well deserved. From all of us at ALBUM, we are grateful to have Bill as our Chair.”
Responding to the news, Bill said: “I am incredibly grateful for the honour of being awarded an MBE. This recognition would not have been possible without the support of many of my colleagues over the years. I am particularly thankful to the dedicated team at Stephensons of Essex and the wider ALBUM membership for their unwavering support to me and their commitment to providing essential passenger transport services.”
