+44 (0)1622 690978
enquiries@victa-railfreight.com
The Team
Neil Sime
Executive Chairman
Chris joined Victa Railfreight in 1996 and has since developed extensive experience across a range of operational roles. In his current position as National Operations Standards Manager, he is responsible for overseeing rail activities across the business and contributes to various Operations Support initiatives. His deep understanding of rail operations continues to support the company’s focus on safety, performance, and continuous improvement.
Colette Ranford
Training Manager
Colette has extensive experience in rail-related safety, front-line operations and logistics. She holds a NEBOSH National General Certificate, along with vocational training and assessment qualifications. Colette delivers our high-quality rail safety awareness training for clients across the sector.
Chris Barrow
National Operations Manager
Neil has been the head of our business since its inception in 1995 and has 45 years of experience in operations and commercial roles within the rail industry. His innovative and practical approach to rail operations and logistical matters has set a culture within our business, providing great benefit to our customers. Neil is a long standing Non Executive Director of The Railfreight Group and was recognised at their 2025 awards for his Lifetime Achievement.
Julian Worth
Board Member
Julian has a wide range of experience within the rail industry and has served in senior positions both pre privatisation and in the privatised environment. He brings a vast range of skills to the business with particular strengths in strategic, safety, commercial and development assignments.
Debbie Simmons
Managing Director
Debbie was appointed Managing Director in October 2025 following excellent contributions as our Contracts and Resources Manager. With extensive experience in business and people management, Debbie has been a valued member of the senior management team for the past decade, bringing deep insight and expertise to Victa’s operations and leads us into our new chapter.
Rob McKittrick
Safety and Compliance Manager
Rob joined Victa Railfreight in 2017 and is our Safety & Compliance Manager. With over 25 years’ experience, Rob advises on health, safety and welfare, leads internal safety initiatives, and supports external competency services. Rob holds multiple safety and leadership qualifications and represents Victa within industry safety groups.
Pam Smith
Rail Enhancement Training Administrator
As Training Administrator, Pam works closely with customers and training instructors to coordinate the delivery of key training courses, including Rail Safety Awareness, Personal Track Safety, and Rail Site Operations Management. Her organisational skills and customer-focused approach help ensure the smooth and effective delivery of training across the business.
Matt Green
Principal Consultant
Matt brings considerable heritage railway experience and operational expertise to Victa. A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Railway Operators, he leads safety and competence projects across heritage and freight sectors, including the rollout of RFTM tools. Our heritage page demonstrates how his expertise can help your heritage business.
Matt remains an active heritage volunteer, passionate about conservation, education and traditional skills.