At CWE, we’re proud to be part of the UK rail industry. We believe it’s a great place to work and that our friendly team showcases the best of the sector. In this series, Life at CWE, we’ll be providing a glimpse into the life of our staff. We hope this will give readers a sense of the work our brilliant people do and the diverse range of talents and skills that make up the world of rail engineering.
This month, we sit down with our Head of Commercial, Ricky Ravenhill who walks us through a day in his life, from bid to build.
What is your role at CWE, and what does a typical day look like for you?
As Head of Commercial at CWE, I’m responsible for overseeing the commercial strategy of the business — everything from contracts and cost management through to client relationships and future opportunities. No two days are ever the same, which is something I really enjoy. A typical day might include meetings with clients or project teams, reviewing commercial performance, supporting bids, and collaborating with colleagues across the business to make sure we’re delivering safely, efficiently, and sustainably.
What do you enjoy about your job?
I really enjoy the people side of the role; I enjoy been out on the road and visiting clients. Rail is a collaborative industry, and I love the social and networking aspects of the job — building strong relationships with clients, partners, and colleagues. Working with different teams and personalities keeps things interesting and makes every project feel unique.
What do you find most rewarding about your job?
The most rewarding part is seeing projects succeed from start to finish and knowing I’ve played a part in that journey. Supporting teams, solving problems, and helping the business grow — while contributing to our success— it gives a real sense of purpose.
What advice would you give to an apprentice just starting out?
Be curious, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to get involved. Everyone starts somewhere, and the rail industry is full of people who are happy to share their knowledge. Take opportunities when they come, build relationships, and remember that learning on the job is just as important as what you learn in the classroom.
Tell me something interesting about yourself!
I spent 18 years as a professional footballer representing clubs such as Doncaster Rovers and Bradford City, amongst others and thoroughly enjoyed that part of my life. When I finally left in 2015, I then got myself a bachelor’s degree before joining the “real world” and embracing the rail industry. Even though my professional footballer days are behind me, I’m still involved in the sport; I am on the coaching team for a semi-professional team which still gives me my football fix!
