MVIS Hosts Charity Auction to Support Ashgate Hospice

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On the evening of 26th February, MVIS had the honour of hosting a charity auction in support of Ashgate Hospice, raising an incredible £3,000 for the local charity. 

The idea for the auction began in November 2025, when our Commercial and Operations Director, Anne Ashman, and Marketing Executive, Ben Ashman, decided they wanted to do something meaningful to support the hospice after seeing Ashgate’s “Act Now for Ashgate” appeal online. 

Ashgate Hospice has long been a charity close to MVIS’ heart. Over the years we have supported the organisation through signage for events, fundraising initiatives and internal activities, including our annual company bake-off. However, this year the team wanted to start the fundraising calendar with something bigger than ever before. 

Turning an Idea into an Event 

After meeting with the Ashgate team in December, the idea for a charity auction was approved and planning began almost immediately. 

From January through to February, Ben Ashman led the organisation of the event, focusing on securing auction prizes and encouraging people to attend. The process began with outreach to local businesses, many of whom were incredibly generous in donating prizes, experiences and services to support the cause. 

Ben contacted over 250 companies, using email campaigns and direct visits to local businesses across Derbyshire. His journey took him through Buxton, Bakewell, Rowsley and Matlock, meeting business owners and collecting donations along the way. 

One of the key moments during the planning stage was securing the venue. The Remarkable Hare in Matlock kindly offered to host the event, providing the perfect setting for the evening. 

Ashgate Auction Pictures from MVIS

Building the Auction 

As donations began to arrive, the number of auctions lots quickly grew. Within a few weeks, 48 items had been secured. However, following advice from the evening’s auctioneer, Adrian Fidler, the goal was increased to maximise the fundraising potential. 

Ben returned to outreach, travelling across the region again and distributing additional flyers to encourage further support. Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and additional contributions from Adrian himself, the final total reached 67 auction lots. 

Ashgate Auction Auctioneer

Final Preparations 

Just two days before the event, on 24th February, final preparations were underway. Ben spent the day travelling across the region collecting the remaining donations, making stops in Buxton, Bakewell, Ambergate, Derby and Chesterfield to ensure everything was ready for the auction night. 

Ashgate Auction Audience

Ashgate Auction Night 

On 26th February, the doors opened at 7pm, with guests arriving to browse the impressive selection of auction lots. The atmosphere quickly filled with excitement and anticipation as supporters prepared to bid on the generously donated prizes. 

At 7:15pm, the auction officially began. 

Over the next two hours, the room was filled with enthusiastic bidding and incredible generosity from everyone involved. By the end of the evening, the auction had raised over £2,900 through bids and donations alone. 

After counting ticket sales and additional contributions in the following days, the total reached an incredible £3,000 raised for Ashgate Hospice. 

Ashgate Auction Committee

The Journey Behind the Fundraising 

Behind the scenes, the effort that went into making the event possible was remarkable. Over the course of two months: 

  • 250+ companies were contacted 
  • 150+ miles were travelled across the local area 
  • 67 auction lots were secured 
  • £3,000 was raised for Ashgate Hospice 

The event showcased the incredible generosity of the local business community and the dedication of everyone involved in making the evening a success. 

A Word from Anne Ashman 

“The MVIS team really came together again for this event, but no one stood out to me more than Ben Ashman, he was able to organise this event on his own while keeping the MVIS marketing running.

Congratulations to everyone for an amazing event and thank you to all the companies who donated and came out to donate on the evening of the event!”

MVIS Joins Ashgate Hospice for the Ashgate TreeCycle

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At MVIS, we are committed to supporting our community and promoting sustainability. This January, we proudly partnered with Ashgate Hospice for their annual Treecycle initiative. Marketing Executive Ben Ashman and Delivery Technician Adam Brown spent an inspiring day assisting Ashgate in collecting Christmas trees from residents, contributing to this innovative and eco-friendly recycling effort.

Our Ongoing Partnership with Ashgate Hospice

MVIS has a long-standing history of supporting Ashgate Hospice through various initiatives. Over the years, we have volunteered for numerous activities, including hosting movie nights, organising car boot sales, participating in the Treecycle program, and providing sponsorships for Ashgate’s key events. These efforts not only help raise vital funds for the hospice but also strengthen our bond with the local community. We take pride in contributing to Ashgate’s mission and helping them deliver exceptional care and support to those in need.

What Is Treecycle?

Treecycle is a fantastic initiative organised  by Ashgate Hospice. Residents sign up to have their Christmas trees collected after the festive season by donating £15 to the hospice. This donation not only supports the incredible work of Ashgate but also ensures the trees are put to good use. Once collected, the trees are processed into biomass fuel—a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for tree disposal.

man in a silver coat and navy jumper, standing next to a van in front of a Christmas tree. He is ashgate volunteering

How Does It Work?

Participants register their trees with Ashgate Hospice, and a dedicated team of volunteers, including Ben and Adam, collect them. These trees are then processed into biomass fuel, a renewable energy source that captures the carbon stored in the trees, preventing harmful gases from being released into the atmosphere. This year, over 1,000 trees were collected, showcasing the incredible support from the community.

Why Biomass Fuel?

Christmas trees, like all plants, absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis as they grow, helping to improve air quality. However, when trees are discarded and begin to decompose, they release carbon dioxide and trace amounts of methane—a greenhouse gas 21 times more potent than carbon dioxide. By converting these trees into biomass fuel, we prevent these emissions from entering the atmosphere while creating a valuable source of renewable energy.

two men in front of a van filled with christmas trees, one wearing high vis and the other wearing a silver coats and navy jacket, they are ashgate volunteering

A Day of Giving Back

Ben Ashman and Adam Brown were delighted to be part of this meaningful project. Guided by a collection list from Ashgate Hospice, they spent the day visiting homes, picking up trees, and connecting with members of the local community. Their efforts, combined with those of Ashgate’s dedicated volunteers, ensured a smooth and efficient collection process, contributing to a greener and more sustainable outcome for the festive season.

Making an Impact Together

The Ashgate Treecycle initiative is a shining example of how small actions can create a significant impact. By participating in Treecycle, residents not only supported vital hospice care services but also championed sustainable practices. We are incredibly proud to have been part of this impactful day and to help raise awareness about renewable energy and eco-friendly solutions.

At MVIS, we remain dedicated to projects that align with our core values of community engagement and environmental responsibility. A heartfelt thank-you to Ashgate Hospice for allowing us to be part of this year’s Treecycle and to everyone who contributed to its success. Together, we’re making a difference—one tree at a time.

Van in front of Christmas Trees, with navy blue overlay and the words 'Read More About Treecycle Here'. the image is linked to ashgate volunteering

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

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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 

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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

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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. 

World Environment Day: Taking Action for a Sustainable Future

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This year is the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day, Led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) since 1973.

Why Should You Celebrate World Environment Day

Celebrating World Environment Day is essential as nature is in emergency mode, every century we get closer and closer to more extreme Global Warming Conditions. if we do not halve Greenhouse Gas Emissions by halve, we will be victim of the worse global warming effects ever by 2030.

Air Pollution beyond safe guidelines will increase by over 50%, meaning we will have to implement safety guidelines when going grocery shopping or out on activities.

The amount of plastic waste in oceans will have tripled by 2040. leading into the theme of this years awareness day which is…

Solutions to Plastic Pollution

More than 400 million tonnes of plastic is in production yearly. Most of which is single use. Of this large amount on 10% is recycled.

Most of the plastics end their life in lakes, rivers and oceans. Estimated at 19-23 million tonnes, approximately the weight of the Eiffel Tower.

With plastics in lakes and rivers we not only need to think of the wildlife, but also consider Microplastics. Humans consume up to 50,000 plastic particles annually. Harming human health and pollute our beautiful natural landscapes.

How MVIS Contributes

Being ISO 14001 Certified since 2016 we have been lowering our Carbon Emissions for 8 years. We have been able to implement different ways of of ensuring our workshop is not giving off carbon emissions.

All Workshop staff have been trained to ‘reduce, re-use and recycle’ old units and repair them so there is no unnecessary waste of metals, plastics or wiring.

We also use WEEE Collections to dispose of components that have reached the end of their. Disposing of them ethically.

Read our ‘Sustainability in the Workshop’ blog to see how we stay sustainable.

How Can You Help?

  • One important yet easy conscious change you can make is being more mindful about how you dispose of your waste. Especially your plastics.
  • Taking part in litter picks with your local communities or councils also help – Clearing the floor of plastics that are potentially dangerous to humans and wildlife alike.
  • Join the #BeatPlasticPollution Movement – Meaning you can Access more information and actions you cnan carry out to contribute.
  • Sharing Environment Based Social Media Content – Sharing content to raise awareness such as UNEP’s LinkedIn or this blog.

Making more mindful decisions in your business or your day to day life will continue to help UNEP and the World Environment Day Committee lower Carbon Emissions and Plastic that people are discarding everyday. As well as monitoring how much plastic and emissions there are.

Implementing practices like MVIS has, helped us lower our emissions and continue to be a sustainable company.

Mental Health Awareness Week 2024

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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:  

 

MVIS Team Up With AGF

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MVIS have been working closely with events organisers for over a decade. With our solutions becoming a pivotal element to Festival line-ups and playing a key role in the safety of some of the biggest events this country has seen over the last 12 years, by delivering VMS (Variable Message Signs) and CCTV. Our portable, solar powered solutions having been developed by our in-house Research and Development Team.

As we continue our journey towards becoming carbon neutral, we also strive to help other businesses achieve their own targets. With the help of our Environmental Sensor, we have helped organisers monitor their impact on the environment. In keeping with our initiative to help other businesses, we have become a member of ‘A Greener Future’. A not-for-profit organisation working to help venues and events become more sustainable and reduce environmental impacts.

Becoming a member of this group ensures that we will continue to help make Events and Venues environmentally sustainable helping companies improve their carbon footprint. Our signs are Solar Powered, and our batteries are recharged at our Hubs across the UK. As a result, there is no wastage on batteries. The relevance? We can supply our signs knowing that whilst they are on hire, they are not causing harm to the environment.

Working with a company like AGF means we can ensure that our environmentally friendly initiative can continue into new and exciting events across the UK. With our strategically located hubs up and down the UK, being a full-fledged member means we can connect with organisers of Events and helping to ensure that they are well supported in their quest to becoming carbon neutral.

The Wonderful Women within MVIS.

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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

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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

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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”.

MVIS Staff Spread Festive Cheer at Ashgate Hospice

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Members of our team recently headed over to Ashgate Hospice in Chesterfield to spread some Festive cheer, by serving some of the unsung heroes who give up their time and support to ensure that the hospice is a friendly and welcoming environment all year round.

The hospice is a local charity that provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care to patients with a life-limiting illness and their families across North Derbyshire. Ashgate Hospice is not an NHS hospice and all the care that it provides is free of charge. In order to continue providing care when people need it most, Ashgate relies heavily on fundraising and community support from local businesses like us.

The team were on hand throughout the day to serve hot drinks including festive hot chocolate and non-alcoholic mulled punch along with a selection of Christmassy sweet treats of mince pies and chocolate Yule log. All home-made by the generous staff at our MVIS head office. Guests, patients, staff and volunteers were also able to take time out of their day and enjoy the Christmas classic ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ shown on the big screen as the Day Hospice was transformed in to a cinema room especially for the event. MVIS work throughout the year on various projects, finding new and exciting ways to raise funds for Ashgate Hospice including charity walks and a 10 week long, in-house Bake-Off competition where all bakes are sold with all profits going straight to the charity.

Jon Larkin – MVIS North Delivery Supervisor: “It’s always important to give something back to the local community. Whether that be time or support in other ways. It’s a pleasure to come to the Hospice and see the amazing work that takes place every single day and the wonderful people that make it all possible. The hospice is a vital part of the local community, many of us know people who have benefitted from the incredible work Ashgate do and to support such an amazing cause right on your doorstep gives us all immense pride”.

David Storer- Ashgate Hospice Events Organiser: “A massive thank you to you guys for coming over and providing all that stuff, as well as providing the cinema set up. The hot chocolates went down a storm with staff from across the hospice. Can I also just say thank you from all of us here for everything else you do for us throughout the year. From Bake-Off sales to the VMS you provide for us, it is all very much appreciated and the GIK, money you raise, and sponsorship of next years High Peak Trail, really does make a huge difference”.

To find out more about Ashgate Hospice and how you can make a difference this Christmas, just click the link: shorturl.at/EGSU8

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