New marketing manager recruited for Cotswold line
THE Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway (G/WR) has marked its 40th anniversary year by appointing its first paid marketing manager.
Catherine Johnson, BSc (Hons), CIM, of Solihull, is only the eighth employee within the heritage line, which is run by an army of 950 volunteers and achieves a healthy £2 million turnover.
Catherine has previously held marketing management or director positions within industry, the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce. Latterly, having gained her Post Graduate Certificate in Education at Worcester University, she has been teaching in Solihull and Coventry. At present she is reporting to Janet Gough, the railway’s volunteer resources director and acting marketing director, following the recent resignation of Graham Radband for family reasons.
Janet said: “As we emerge from a series of lockdowns which have significantly curtailed the railway’s business, the board has taken the opportunity to rethink the railway’s management structure.
“It is clear marketing is a crucial discipline that needs professional input to help grow our railway’s business into the future.”
Catherine said: “My first task is to audit the range of marketing and communications activities on the railway and recommend a marketing plan which co-ordinates these and firmly places the G/WR in the top echelon of the Cotswolds tourism market.
“Our railway is well placed to become top-of-mind for families looking for an enjoyable day out.
“I’m really impressed with the railway and all that it has achieved over four decades – and almost entirely by volunteers. It’s a truly astonishing story that needs to be told.
“People who visit our railway also spend money at other attractions, support local businesses such as shops, pubs, restaurants, B&Bs and hotels.
“As our railway develops, so does the local economy. Our growth will play a vital part in helping the region to recover from the coronavirus pandemic by attracting new as well as returning visitors.”