Meet the Team - James Butterworth

Our Operations Assistant James Butterworth truly is a rising star in rail freight.

James joined the Victa team in 2022 during his university placement, in the third year of his Transport Management degree at Aston University. This placement was a pivotal step in his career, offering him a varied and hands-on experience across multiple areas of rail freight operations.

During his placement year, James demonstrated excellence across a range of roles. As a rail logistics operative and train shunter, he gained valuable hands-on operational expertise and in his role as an assistant roster clerk, he contributed to workforce planning and improved operational efficiency. Additionally, James has supported us through marketing and social media activities.

From joining our team James quickly impressed his colleagues with his adaptability, enthusiasm, and dedication to learning. Under the mentorship of Executive Chairman Neil Sime and Managing Director, Debbie Simmons, James has gained a well-rounded introduction to the rail freight industry.

After graduating from Aston University with First Class Honours in BSc Transport Management in July 2024, where he was awarded The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport National Prize, James took up his full-time position at Victa Railfreight as an operations assistant the following October.

In this role, he has various responsibilities, including supporting operations and assisting with roster planning and co-ordination. His role has also allowed him to gain valuable practical experience across the company’s southern operations, such as the Port of Tilbury and various sites in London, including Neasden.

James has also become an active member of professional bodies including The Chartered Institute of Railway Operators and The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, regularly attending meetings when he can. These memberships allow him to expand his knowledge and network within the industry.

In 2025 James was runner up in the Young Rail Professional category at the Rail Freight Group Awards.

James remains deeply committed to advancing his career in rail freight and has set clear ambitions for the future. He aims to fulfil his lifelong dream of becoming a train driver while also gaining a comprehensive understanding of both the operational and commercial aspects of the rail freight industry.

Additionally, he is eager to explore the intricate logistics of global freight movement, particularly the seamless journey of goods from origin to destination.

James attributes his professional growth to the supportive environment at Victa Railfreight, which promotes a family-oriented culture where colleagues genuinely know and support one another. This close-knit team dynamic has been instrumental in creating a sense of belonging and collaboration.

James said: “I am proud to be part of the Victa Railfreight team. The company has allowed me to benefit from varied opportunities in the industry and its strong leadership, and supportive workforce have played a pivotal role in my career development.

“When I first joined Victa, I was based in Manchester where I grew up and spent many shifts working at Dove Holes in the Peak District and Tinsley Yard in South Yorkshire. Moving from Manchester to London was a big step, but the Victa family has really looked after me. It’s a great place to work that places great emphasis on supporting its team and encouraging career aspirations.”

James exemplifies the future of rail freight: he is passionate, driven, and deeply committed to making a difference. His journey highlights the value of industry placements, mentorship, and a clear focus on career development — we’re excited to support him on his career path.