Team Announcement: Committed Focus, New Structure…Continued Excellence!
With industry changes and government reforms adding complexity, the OPC remains committed to supporting rail operators with expert psychology services, data-driven insights, and tailored solutions. We’ll support clients to discover potential, drive performance, develop leadership and enhance operational excellence contributing to a more resilient rail sector. To further strengthen our client services for 2025 and beyond, we've refined our team structure.
Laura Hedley: Leading Consultancy and Talent Services
With over 15 years at the OPC, Laura Hedley specialises in the psychology of safety and people at work. As Head of Consultancy and Talent Services, Laura leads a team focused on talent management and client engagement.
"I'm excited to collaborate with our skilled team of psychologists and consultants to deliver tailored solutions that enhance safety across people, leaders, and cultures. Capitalising on our rich safety-critical data and insights, we aim to have ‘intelligence-led’ conversations that drive tangible improvements for individuals and organisations."
David Holloway: Driving Innovation in Products & Digital Services
David Holloway has been at OPC Assessment for nearly 20 years. As Head of Products & Digital Services, David will spearhead enhancements to our digital portfolio, including the Candela™ testing platform and new assessment tools to meet client needs and enhance recruitment efficiencies.
"Candela™ offers a smart, intuitive solution to quickly and efficiently identify top candidates. Our Business Psychologists combine psychology and data science expertise to deliver tailored and informed recruitment support. We’ll continue to focus on improving workflows, user experience and candidate support."
Jo Lawrence & Dr Stephen Fletcher: Strategic Leadership
As Joint Chief Executives, Jo Lawrence and Dr Stephen Fletcher will guide the OPC’s and OPC Assessment’s strategic direction. They’ll prioritise deepening industry and client partnerships, key stakeholder engagement, as well as global client support in rail, transport, and engineering sectors.
Focus Areas for 2025
| Fairness in Recruitment |
“Fair selection processes are key for attracting and retaining top talent,” Jo Lawrence said. “Using data-driven insights, the OPC is committed to help guide the industry’s push for inclusive and effective recruitment strategies.” |
| Non-Technical Skills (NTS) in Safety-Critical Roles |
Integrating NTS alongside technical competencies is crucial for safety-critical roles. “NTS can serve as leading indicators supporting safer operations and playing a vital role in predictive safety management.” Dr Fletcher explained, “They can help identify employees at risk of an incident and equip them to perform more effectively.” |
| Leadership Development |
Leadership development will also be a priority for 2025. “Identifying future leaders is vital for resilient organisations,” Laura Hedley said. “Investing in roles like Driver Managers will help clients develop adaptive leaders ready for future challenges.” |
Contact our friendly team to discover our tailored recruitment and safety solutions, along with our innovative assessment tools.