MVIS: Supporting Local Sports and Communities – Sponsoring Jacob Spencer and Beyond

At MVIS, we believe that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is more than just a box to tick

it’s an integral part of our identity. We are committed to giving back to the community that supports us, and this philosophy has led us to sponsor our R&D Technician Jacob Spencer.

Championing Local Talent 

By sponsoring Jacob Spencer, we are proud to support grassroots football and provide opportunities for talented athletes to thrive. At the community level, football plays a huge role in fostering companionship, discipline, and physical well-being. Jacob’s passion and drive on the field reflect the values that we uphold at MVIS: commitment, teamwork, and perseverance. 

Through this sponsorship, we aim to ensure that local sports continue to thrive. Cromford and Wirksworth Town FC have been pillars of the local community, bringing people together, and we’re delighted to be a part of that legacy. 

Corporate Social Responsibility: A Core Value 

Our commitment to CSR extends beyond local sports. MVIS has long supported community initiatives, and our sponsorships are just one way we actively engage with causes that matter. For example, our ongoing relationship with Ashgate Hospice is one that’s especially close to our hearts. For years, we’ve contributed to their incredible work, assisting them with signage for key fundraising events such as the Sparkle Walk and sponsoring stars for their annual campaigns. Our team members, like Rob Hinchley, also participate in fundraising activities, like his planned charity skydive to raise funds for this essential cause. Supporting Ashgate Hospice embodies the spirit of care and community that MVIS seeks to foster in every aspect of our work.

Investing in Employee Well-being 

At MVIS, we also place great emphasis on the mental health and well-being of our employees. We understand that a supportive workplace is crucial to personal and professional success, which is why we prioritise a culture of openness and mental health support. When employees are happy and healthy, they are better equipped to give back to the community and thrive in their roles. This holistic approach to well-being not only benefits our team but also aligns with our CSR goals—helping us make a positive impact both internally and externally. 

A Legacy of Sports Sponsorship 

Sponsoring Jacob Spencer isn’t our first foray into supporting athletes. Over the years, MVIS has proudly sponsored local football teams, Car racing and even kickboxers, helping them compete at higher levels. We see sports as a fantastic way to develop resilience, dedication, and teamwork—qualities we value in our business. These sponsorships aren’t just about brand visibility but about strengthening community ties and giving back to those who inspire and energise us.

Looking Ahead 

We are excited to continue supporting Cromford and Wirksworth Town FC and Jacob Spencer in the upcoming season.  

Whether it’s through our ties with Ashgate Hospice, fostering employee well-being, or empowering athletes to chase their dreams, MVIS remains dedicated to making a difference. Our commitment to CSR will continue to guide us as we seek new ways to uplift our community and support those who inspire us. 

At MVIS, we know that our success is only meaningful when we use it to benefit the world around us, and we are proud to keep building stronger, more connected communities through our actions. 

  


Rob Hinchley’s Charity Skydive for Ashgate Hospice 

At MVIS, we’ve always been passionate about supporting our local community, and one of the organisations closest to our hearts is Ashgate Hospice. This year, our Workshop Technician, Rob Hinchley, is taking on an incredible challenge to raise a minimum of £550 for this important cause – by completing a charity skydive! 

Why Ashgate Hospice?   

Ashgate Hospice provides exceptional palliative and end-of-life care to those in need, and MVIS has been proud to partner with them over the years. From providing signage for their Sparkle Walk and High Peak Trail events to sponsoring stars placed outside the hospice in December, we’ve seen first hand the vital work they do for individuals and families during difficult times. 

Now, Rob is stepping up to make a difference in a whole new way—by jumping out of a plane! 

Rob’s Charity Skydive for a Cause 

On the 27th of September, Rob will be taking to the skies in a daring skydive, all in the name of charity. His goal is to raise £550, which will go directly toward helping Ashgate Hospice continue their essential work. Every pound raised will contribute to the care and support of patients facing life-limiting illnesses and their families, ensuring they receive the compassionate care they need. 

The Importance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) 

At MVIS, we believe that businesses play a key role in giving back to the communities they serve. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is about more than just business success; it’s about making a positive impact on society and being a force for good. Through our long-standing partnership with Ashgate Hospice, we’re committed to supporting initiatives that benefit our local area and the people in it. 

By getting involved in charitable events, like Rob’s skydive, and contributing to important causes, we’re showing our dedication to values that go beyond profits. CSR helps strengthen our bonds within the community, improve employee engagement, and foster a culture of compassion and responsibility within the company. It’s a win-win, as we can both support our local hospice and encourage our team to take part in meaningful, life-enriching experiences. 

At MVIS, we know that our actions today can lead to a brighter tomorrow. That’s why we take every opportunity to contribute to causes that truly matter. Rob’s skydive is a perfect example of how we turn our commitment to CSR into action, helping to support the wonderful work of Ashgate Hospice.

How You Can Help 

Rob’s challenge is bold, and we believe he can reach his goal with the help of our amazing community. Whether you can donate a little or a lot, every bit counts. Your generosity will make a real difference to the lives of those Ashgate Hospice supporters. 

Worker in navy polo, stood infront of Skydiver for Charity Skydive

Show Your Support!

Let’s get behind Rob as he takes this leap for Ashgate Hospice! If you’d like to support him, visit his fundraising page and donate. Together, we can help Rob hit his target of £550 and contribute to the incredible work that Ashgate Hospice does every day. 

Thank you for your continued support! 


MVIS: Championing Wellbeing in the Highways Sector

MVIS: Championing Wellbeing in the Highways Sector 

At MVIS, we are committed to more than just creating innovative solutions for traffic management; we are dedicated to the wellbeing of our team. Recently, we proudly participated in our latest “Journey to Wellbeing,” activity.  

The initiative is aimed at improving mental health within the Highways sector.  It has provided a great opportunity to foster a supportive work environment, encourage physical activity, and promote mental wellness amongst our colleagues. 

The Journey to Wellbeing Initiative 

The Highways sector, a 24/7 industry, can be demanding. Often requiring long hours, high levels of concentration, flexibility and the ability to manage stressful situations. Recognising these challenges, the Journey to Wellbeing initiative was established to support those working in the sector. It aims to raise awareness about mental health, provide resources and support, and create a culture that prioritizes the wellbeing of all employees. 

At MVIS, we understand that mental health is as crucial as physical health. That’s why we have 3 Mental Health first aiders and embrace this initiative wholeheartedly, encouraging our team to participate in various activities designed to promote a positive mindset and a healthy lifestyle. 

The Olympics Quiz: A Nod to Our 2012 Legacy 

In keeping with the spirit of the Journey to Wellbeing, we organized an Olympics-themed quiz. This was particularly meaningful for us, as MVIS played a crucial role in traffic management during the London 2012 Olympics. MVIS deployed a 177 VMS on the Olympic Route Network, this ensured smooth transportation for athletes, officials, and fans during the event, and it was a proud moment in our company’s history. 

The quiz was a delightful mix of questions about Olympic history, MVIS’s involvement in the 2012 Games, and general sports trivia. The competition was fierce, but it was Sales Director, Graeme Lee who emerged victorious, clinching the gold medal by answering an impressive 12 out of 15 questions correctly. This was a fun and engaging way to reminisce about our achievements and connect over shared memories. 

Running in Front of Our Vehicle Activated Speed Sign 

In the spirit of physical fitness and friendly competition, we also held a unique event where participants ran in front of our new Vehicle Activated Speed Sign (VASS) to see who could run the fastest. Our VASS technology, which typically alerts drivers to their speed, was repurposed for the day to measure the speed of our runners. 

  

With excitement in the air, our team members took turns sprinting in front of the sign. It was a great way to get everyone moving and have some fun. Marketing Executive Ben Ashman claimed the title of the fastest runner, clocking an impressive 20 mph. The event was not only a test of speed but also a great way to encourage physical activity and camaraderie among our team.  

A Commitment to Wellbeing 

At MVIS, we believe that a healthy mind and body are key to a happy and productive life. Our participation in the Journey to Wellbeing initiative is just one example of our commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture. We are proud to support our team members in their journey towards better mental health and overall wellbeing. 

As we continue to innovate and provide cutting-edge solutions for traffic management, we remain dedicated to promoting a work environment that values and supports the wellbeing of every individual. Together, we are building a brighter, healthier future for the Highways sector and beyond. 


The Incredible Journey of Our Ice Scrapers: From Hillhead Quarry Show to the World 

Hillhead Quarry Show: The Beginning of an Epic Voyage 

It all began when we had left over ice scrapers from previous trade shows. We took them to the Hillhead Quarry Show in 2022, the sun was blazing but our Ice Scrapers captured the attention of the show’s visitors. Known for their challenging terrain and unpredictable weather, they presented the ideal talking point.  

When deciding on marketing material for the 2024 show the Ice Scraper was an immediate choice. The positive feedback we received was overwhelming, setting the stage for their worldwide distribution. 

A Global Expedition: Where Have Our Ice Scrapers Been? 

We are asking you to send us images of the ice scrapers in your current location, to see how far they have travelled. We had visitors to the stand to discuss our Intelligent Quarry Systems from as far afield as India and Chile, all taking one of the MVIS (Mobile Visual Information System) ice scrapers with them.  

The Impact: Beyond Clearing Ice 

Their journey is not just about geographical reach—it is also about the impact they have had on safety and convenience for drivers worldwide. By providing a simple yet effective solution to a frequent problem, we have helped countless people navigate winter weather with greater ease and confidence. 

MVIS Promotional Ice Scrapers, Cloths and Keyrings

Conclusion 

From the rugged terrains of Hillhead Quarry to the icy roads of cities worldwide, our Promotional Mobile Visual Information System’s Ice Scrapers have travelled an impressive distance. Their journey is a testament to their quality, durability, and the trust our customers place in us. Here there are too many more miles and frost-free mornings ahead! 


Alleviating Anxiety on our Roads

In today’s fast-paced world, the daily commute or road journey can be a significant source of stress, tension, and anxiety for many individuals.

The uncertainty of traffic conditions, roadworks, and unexpected delays can trigger worry and frustration, affecting our mental well-being. However, there is a solution that not only provides essential information but also helps alleviate anxiety and reduce stress levels: variable message signs (VMS).

Our portable signs displaying real-time information on road conditions and journey times have a surprising impact on the mental strain experienced by road users. In this blog, we will explore how VMS can benefit mental health by reducing stress, tension, frustration, and worry, and how they contribute to a more positive and anxiety-free driving experience.

The Detrimental Effects of Stress and Worry

Stress and worry take a toll on our mental and physical health. The constant anticipation of traffic congestion, unexpected roadworks, or delays can create a sense of helplessness and exacerbate anxiety. Studies have shown that chronic stress contributes to a range of health issues, including high blood pressure, insomnia, reduced cognitive function, and even depression. Therefore, finding effective ways to minimise stress and worry during road journeys is crucial for promoting mental well-being.


Stress-Relief: Real Time Information

Variable message signs play a vital role in reducing anxiety by providing road users with up-to-date, real-time information. These signs display essential details regarding road conditions, alternate routes, and expected journey times, allowing drivers to make informed decisions and plan their journeys more effectively. By knowing what lies ahead, road users can mentally prepare for potential delays, reducing the element of surprise and the resulting stress.


Alleviating Anxiety

The fear of the unknown is a common source of anxiety, and this applies to road users as well. The ‘what ifs’ that accompany a journey can cause significant stress and worry. However, VMS products provide a solution to this problem. By displaying vital information these signs address the uncertainty that often plagues drivers. They act as a reassuring guide, eliminating the need to imagine worst-case scenarios and allowing road users to focus on the present moment.


Reducing Frustration

Delays and unexpected road incidents can quickly lead to frustration and tension. Traffic congestion, detours, or unclear directions can trigger emotions that are detrimental to mental health. Variable message signs mitigate these negative emotions by keeping drivers informed and aware of the situation at hand. By providing accurate and timely updates, VMS help drivers anticipate and understand the causes of delays.

One major additional benefit is the one our roadworkers can experience. A calmer driver is less likely to subject roadworkers to a torrent of abuse – something roadworkers sadly face on an increasing basis.

MVIS Sales Director Graeme Lee said:

“There are some really important elements to portable VMS that we believe are overlooked. In a world where stresses are high enough, we don’t want a road network filled with anxious, angry drivers -it isn’t good for anyone. Journey time information is so important to drivers and enables them to adapt as they travel. With the common integration of Bluetooth into cars now for telephone use, an informed driver can keep in touch if required to advise of any changes to their journey and subsequently, their plans.”


Ashgate Hospice: The Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility

MVIS has been working with Ashgate Hospice for many years now, over this time we have proven useful to Ashgate, raising money through Car Boot Sales, Bake Offs, and Sponsorship of Ashgate Events.

Why do MVIS do it?

There are multiple reasons a company will help charities, such as Ashgate Hospice, with sponsorship or money raising events. The obvious being the good feeling of helping a small charitable organisation, raising money for them helps them to continue their charity work and pay staff members, so charity work continues.

The other reason being to improve a companies Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Being a company that collaborates with charity often, we have been able to spread our charitable word through Blogs, Social Posts, and Website Uploads. In doing so, we have been able to give our company a positive image. Meaning we have a positive Business Reputation, improved Brand Recognition and a greater ability to attract Talent and Retain Staff.

How MVIS has helped Ashgate Hospice

There are many different ways in which we have helped the team at Ashgate. From continuous participation in the Treecycle, to hosting a Movie Afternoon for the team.

Other ways in which we have helped include:

  • Sparkle Walk – MVIS sponsors the Ashgate Sparkle Walk yearly. A walk throughout Chesterfield, during the night wearing pink light up ears. This year look out for MVIS staff members taking part during the walk.
  • High Peak Trail – A walk through the beautiful Derbyshire countryside to help raise money for the charity. MVIS’ Staff Juliette Wright and Anne Ashman took part this year.
  • Movie Afternoon – Before Christmas the MVIS team visit the Hospice and serve hot chocolate, tea and coffees to the volunteers. Helping them relax and unwind before Christmas.
  • Car boot Sale – Over a few weeks the MVIS team donated some of their old items to the Car Boot sale pile. In doing so we were able to take them to the Tansley Car Boot sale with all the proceeds going to Ashgate Hospice.
  • TreeCycle – Each year two MVIS team members take our service van. Helping the Ashgate team to collect Christmas Trees from houses and turn them into biofuel.
  • Bake Off –  We give staff the opportunity to pretend that they are on the hit TV Show, The Great British Bake Off. Having them bring their bakes in over the weeks in a tournament to see who is our Star Baker. Currently being Jacob Spencer, 3 Years Running.

Why Should CSR Be Implemented

Corporate Social Responsibility has many benefits to your company. If you are not already implementing a CSR campaign. you should for these reasons:

  • Better brand recognition.
  • Positive business reputation.
  • Increased sales and customer loyalty.
  • Operational costs savings.
  • Better financial performance.
  • Greater ability to attract talent and retain staff.
  • Organisational growth.
  • Easier access to capital.

To Conclude

MVIS has been implementing CSR into circulation for years. Doing this has ensured we have a positive image to customers old and new. Having a positive social image is helping us in our business, as people want to work with companies helping Charities.

We have also been able to highlight our achievements and explain how they are helping the Hospice move itself forward and ensure that staff and patients are happy.

So we have been able to help our business while helping others.


Being Sustainable With Solar Powered Products

Sustainability has been at the forefront for us as a company for a decade now, and as a result, we’ve been reflecting back on over ten years of commitment to being sustainable. As well as offering products that are solar powered, we’ve also taken action in helping to reduce our own environmental impact

The very nature of our products has a strong environmental focus and they’re all designed to be energy efficient. Over the last 12 years, we have improved our unit’s batteries and solar panels in line with the latest innovations in their respective technologies. By using tilting and more efficient solar panels, it has resulted in improved run times and fewer battery changes, which means fewer journeys need to be made.

Our solar powered range of products offer an alternative to fixed solutions that draw power from the grid. They do not need to rely on external energy supply and therefore are highly portable and can be deployed in locations where fixed solutions can’t be. The applications that our products can be used for can also help promote an environmentally conscious way of thinking. The VMS-A and VMS-C can be used to spread messages that can influence driver or pedestrian behaviour, such as reminding drivers not to leave their engine running idle or encouraging people not to litter.

The fact we specialise in solar power enables us to offer our environmentally friendly products to organisations looking to minimise their own carbon footprint and environmental impact. Our data collection solutions can help Local Authorities and other groups determine levels of traffic and their speed, which can then help them make environmental decisions on issues like air pollution. 

To help cut down on the carbon footprint of our service, we have taken action in reducing the amount of fuel that we use. Our custom-built beavertail vehicle allows us to deploy 3 x VMS-A units, 2 x VMS-C units, or 2 x Solar IP units in one delivery. By being able to transport multiple units in one single trip, it minimises our fuel consumption and time on the roads.  

It has never been more important to be acting in ways that promote sustainability and general care for the environment, but this is something that we have been doing consistently for over a decade. Whilst we’re proud to be an environmentally responsible company, having a ‘green’ focus isn’t just embodied in our products but in our actions too. As is the MVIS way, we will always constantly be searching for ways to be more sustainable and reduce our footprint even further. 

Anne Ashman, Group Commercial and Operations Director comments, “There is always room for improvement when it comes to reducing our carbon footprint and we have taken measures and joined initiatives to help achieve this. MVIS has remained committed to giving back to the environment for 12 years now and will continue to work towards a sustainable future.”

For more information about MVIS environmental policies, please see the ‘Environment’ section on our Safety Hub.


Mental Health Awareness Week 2024

This week (13 – 19 May) sees the return of Mental Health Awareness Week for 2024. With this year’s focus being on Movement. Since 2001 the Mental Health Foundation has shone the spotlight on mental health across the UK. Each year, they encourage millions of people to take part, from schools and further education, private & public sectors as well as families and individuals.  

 Here at MVIS we go the extra mile to ensure that we protect the mental health and wellbeing of staff with our monthly Journey to Wellbeing tasks. Working in an industry that suffers from high suicide rates, it is of vital importance that we stay one step ahead when it comes to mental health. The initiative, which was introduced by National Highways back in 2023 has seen the team take part in a host of different tasks with the aim of improving mental health by communicating and working as a team. Each year National Highways releases a yearly planner to follow with tasks which we have adapted to best suit our workforce and to increase communication. These include: Game Show style challenges, quizzes and even outdoor team games such as Rounders and Cricket. 

 Over the years, we have taken several steps to safeguard our team’s well-being and mental health. One of the things we’ve done to support our team is by giving them access to 3 qualified mental health first aiders. Our mental health first aiders are Rebecca Prince Purchasing – Supervisor, Jon Larkins, our Midlands and Northern Hub Manager and our Commercial and Operations Director, Anne Ashman 

 Along with these measures, the MVIS team also have access to the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), an anonymous advice and support service offered by Peninsula where staff are able to access structured counselling should it ever be needed. If you feel that you may need advice or support on your mental health, some helpful links will be included below.  

 Anne Ashman said, “The mental health of our team is one of our top priorities and these initiatives provide the ideal opportunity for them to have a break and spend some time together. Here at MVIS we have been working with our staff for a long time now on ways we can best safeguard their mental health and wellbeing, which has helped us build the support system we have in place today.” 

 

Get help and support:  

 


Ben Takes Product Showcase On The Road

Man in blue coat stood next to a Variable Message Sign in a Quarry


For over a decade, MVIS have been delivering portable, solar powered ITS Solutions that offer users access to proven safety products that can enhance the safety of your quarry, landfill, or construction work site.

Our solutions provide effective answers to many safety concerns in a quarry construction or work site. We offer trailer based, solar powered Intelligent Quarry Safety Solutions (IQSS) products such as portable variable message signs (VMS), portable CCTV, and data collection solutions that are secure, adaptable, and cost effective.

Introducing Ben

Ben has recently transitioned into the role of Sales and Marketing Executive. A move which reflects MVIS’ dedication to nurturing talent from within. Ben previously held a marketing role within the company, but his multifaceted skillset and exceptional people skills have proven instrumental in fostering great relationships at events throughout 2023 / 24, sufficiently so that Group CEO, Pat Musgrave, was thoroughly impressed with his sales aptitude at various events & shows, and immediately green-lighted the new role.

Having lived near MVIS Midland Hub all his life, Ben knows the area well. Knowing which Quarries in his local area need help with their traffic management and general site safety. He is more than happy to put boots to the ground and visit sites to see if they need any consultation as to where traffic management can be improved or to demonstrate what our products can do. Ben’s 2024 diary is beginning to fill up fast with enquiries from both quarry and landfill site owners, keen to speak with him and to see products showcased at their site as part of MVIS’ Platinum Level Service.

Commenting on Ben’s appointment, Pat said:

“We are thrilled to have Ben step into the position of Sales and Marketing Executive. His work here so far has been fantastic and, coupled with his interpersonal skills, we’ve now seen first-hand over the last 12 months that he’s the ideal person to be a face associated with MVIS to our ever-growing client base across the Quarrying sector. We believe that Ben’s customer-centric approach will play a pivotal role in his success in the role.”

Ben added:

“I am very excited about taking on this role and I am ready for the challenge. It has been a great three years working with MVIS and I am ready to take on this exciting role and start a new chapter whilst at this company.

“I’ve really enjoyed engaging with our client base so far, and the opportunity to showcase who we are and what we do to new people at events throughout the last 12 months has been really enjoyable. I look forward to seeing more faces on the road in the run-up to Hillhead 2024 and beyond.”

If you would like Ben & the team to visit your site for an in-depth demonstration you can contact him at ben.ashman@m-vis.co.uk or 07585 256831 for an initial consultation to better understand your needs & desires.


The Wonderful Women within MVIS.

On the back of International Women’s Day, we got to thinking how the ladies at MVIS make each day work. 

Our talented group of women are the driving force of this company. Working in most areas to ensure the company runs correctly, everyone goes home safe, and our Products are up to standard, delivered on time, and well maintained.

The MVIS ladies are not limited to the office, you can often find them across all areas of the company.

Here are some of the amazing women at the core of MVIS:

Anne Ashman, Commercial and Operations Director:

As the companies only original member from the initial start-up, and working at MVIS for almost 13 years now, Anne has been the driving force behind all the accreditations, policies, process, building of the team and general management of MVIS.  Pushing the company forward to new and better opportunities, working with all departments and individuals alike to ensure they always have the resources needed to fulfil their roles.

When she is not in the office planning for the future on projects or supporting the team, she is happy travelling across the UK to one of the 3 strategic hubs.  She can be found working at trade shows, such as Highways at the NEC, liaising with old and new customers, or even on site auditing the delivery team to ensure they meet the platinum level service she expects of every member of her team.

She is quiet often working with R&D on new product ideas, you would be surprised how many products start from Anne & Tom Hooton’s (R&D manager) drawings on a white board.  Anne may even be in the workshop working on our Solar Powered Solutions when a helping hand is needed, these are just a few of the areas she covers.  Also, as our qualified Transport Manager she oversees the fleet with Clair Tranter, head of customer relations.

Juliette Wright and Donna Cree, Sales Team

If you have ever called the MVIS office and been greeted by a pleasant voice at the end of the phone or made an enquiry through sales@m-vis.co.uk and had very quick response, you have, most likely been in contact with Juliette or Donna.

Sales and Business Development Executive Juliette has been visiting companies working on new business and developing relationships further with MVIS customers, Juliette never shies away from a site visit or from a meeting with clients at their offices.

Sales Support Admin, Donna has also visited site with our dedicated drivers, an initiative for all members of staff to understand the importance of safety delivering to roadsides.

Clair Tranter and April Flaherty, Customer Relations

Behind every one of our great delivery team are Customer Relations. Keeping the vehicles on the road, planning the deliveries, repairs of units and supporting all our customers with technical enquiries, relocations and Health & safety paperwork are amongst just a few of their daily tasks, but most of all they are there supporting the drivers on the road.

Clair and April are no strangers to visiting site, both have accompanied a driver to deliver a unit as part of the training initiative.

Clair spent two days in Cobham Delivering with the teams at our Southern Hub.  She regularly supports Anne with the transport management, overseeing getting all vehicles into the garages in a timely manner that ensures we have the resources needed on the road for deliveries to our customers, working on FORS and training all the delivery and workshop team.  She is our resident expert on our delivery system, working closely on health & safety after recently passing her IOSH managing safely to assist the delivery team with all RAMS.

April works on the planning of repairs and servicing of all units to ensure they are working correctly when out on site. Working closely with the workshop team, organising their daily tasks, ensuring stock is available for any repairs needed or for newly built units that are sold.

Mizzy Watson, R & D Assistant

Mizzy was promoted into the R&D team due to her technical knowledge of our ITS products.  She is a regular in the workshop testing new products or helping the workshop team with her knowledge of our products, training team members on the systems and even fixing products to keep them at the expected MVIS standard. 

She is a great help on the technical folders of all our products, ensuring all new products being developed are tested to the correct standards, and supplying the correct information for all the companies departments, to help support getting the units out to site.

One of our crowning achievements at MVIS is the dedication to inclusivity and ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities to shine and excel in different areas. We do not limit one person to one area, we are proud of our lovely lady’s commitment to MVIS and helping out on the roads, either from a desk or on the road network.


10 years of Tom: A Decade of Dedication and Innovation

Tom Hooton, MVIS’ Research & Development Manager recently celebrated a significant milestone in his career, marking 10 years of dedicated service to the company.
Tom’s journey at MVIS Ltd is a testament to his unwavering commitment, exceptional work ethic, and passion for the company’s mission and values. Tom’s tenure at MVIS began in 2014 when he joined the company as a maintenance and delivery driver. Tom quickly distinguished himself through his exemplary skills, dedication, and understanding of the company’s products and objectives. Over the years, he has ascended through various roles within the company, climbing the ranks and leaving a mark along the way.

Reflecting on his progression within the company, Tom said: “After transitioning from technical support to Research & Development Manager, I like to believe that I have grown alongside the company. When I first joined, MVIS Ltd was still in its infancy, and it has been incredibly rewarding to witness and contribute to its growth and evolution. I take immense pride in my role, knowing that I play a pivotal part in developing the innovative solutions that define MVIS Ltd.”

Anne Ashman, Group Commercial and Operations Director at MVIS Ltd, recalls her initial encounter with Tom and his subsequent rise within the company.
“In 2014, when I offered Tom a role as a maintenance & delivery driver, I quickly realised that his skill set and dedication were invaluable assets that would contribute significantly to the company’s growth.

“Having had the privilege of working alongside Tom for the past decade, I am delighted to witness his well-deserved recognition. Tom’s commitment to excellence, coupled with his willingness to support colleagues and customers alike, has been instrumental in shaping both our products and our company culture.”

Tom’s impact at MVIS Ltd extends beyond his technical expertise; he is widely admired for his willingness to go above and beyond to assist customers and colleagues alike. His efforts have earned him the respect of his colleagues, culminating in his recent recognition as the recipient of the company’s employee of the year award.
Commenting on the accolade, Anne added:

“It gives me great pleasure to present Tom with our recognition award at Christmas. The fact that Tom’s name emerged repeatedly during the staff voting process is a testament to the profound impact he has had on our organisation.
As MVIS Ltd continues to innovate and expand its range of cutting-edge solutions, Tom remains at the forefront of driving technological advancements and delivering unparalleled value to customers.


IWD2024: Spotlight on Anne Ashman – The View from the Top

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day 2024, it’s rather apt to shine a spotlight on women who are breaking barriers and making significant strides in what could be conceived as traditionally male-dominated industries.

One such trailblazer is Anne Ashman, Group Commercial & Operations Director of MVIS, a leading provider of Portable VMS signs & Intelligent Transport Solutions.

Anne’s journey doesn’t just highlight personal achievement, but also underscores the progress being made in the highways industry towards gender equality and inclusivity. It also showcases MVIS as the inclusive company it is, putting ‘the best person for the job’ as the only criteria on the list for employment & progression opportunities.

Here we take a look at Anne’s career path with MVIS, her time in the highways sector, what brought Anne to where she is today, as well as some of the challenges faced and hurdles overcome on the route.


A Journey of Growth and Leadership

With over a decade of service at MVIS, Anne’s journey is a testament to her commitment, resilience, and leadership qualities.

Starting from the role of Office Manager within the company in 2012, Anne has steadily progressed through the ranks. Her journey exemplifies the opportunities for growth and advancement available to women in the sector, and at MVIS in particular.

The highways industry has historically been perceived as a male-dominated sector. However, the landscape is shifting, with an ever-growing female presence across a range of roles – from operative to boardroom level.

Anne’s leadership role at MVIS highlights this shift, and the company has a further female presence within its workforce to the tune of 35% percent – showcasing the continued opportunities available to females in the sector via a career with MVIS.

With ‘the best person for the job’ the ultimate goal, more women are welcomed not just into the sector in general, but into leadership positions within MVIS.


The Importance of Female Leadership

The presence of female role models like Anne is not only essential for promoting gender equality but also for driving innovation, and adding diverse perspectives within organisations.

As Anne continues to lead by example at MVIS, she contributes to the company’s success and reinforces the importance of female leadership in driving organisational growth and sustainability.

This ‘on the ground’ skillset is in addition to highlighting to females both in, and interested in entering the highways industry that it is a career path that brings opportunity for growth and progression.


A Brighter Future

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, Anne’s journey serves as a reminder of the progress being made towards gender equality in the highways industry and beyond.

With more women like Anne assuming leadership roles, the future looks brighter and more inclusive than ever before. As we continue to champion diversity and empower women in the workplace, we pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous industry for all.

We spoke to Anne about being a female leader in a sector typically seen as male dominated, as well as some of the challenges faced, as well as crucially how they were overcome.

Anne told us:

“The sector is certainly a different landscape to the one I entered in 2012, with the number of females drastically increased. Take a look around an industry event or exhibition in 2024 and there’s almost a 50/50 split of males and females in the room. In 2012, women were very much a minority there.

Whilst working in the Highways Sector, I have had opportunities that I may not have had in other industries. Yes, I was a female in a male industry, but as someone who has always believed in equality and a role being filled by the right person, not a gender, then this didn’t bother me.

What I did do was take all the opportunities offered that has allowed me to move to the role I am now in. My list of qualifications and skills is endless, this is what I want others to read, it’s about hard work and grabbing the opportunities you are offered. Whether your female, non-binary, or male, you only gain by putting in the hard work and not being discouraged by being who you are”.