Driver hire franchisee in line for national award

Ed Pockney, franchisee at leading transport & logistics recruiter, Driver Hire Uxbridge, is in line for a national award. He’s one of the finalists in the 2019 bfa HSBC Franchise Awards, in the ‘Business Transformation’ category.

His nomination is well deserved. Since buying the franchise in 2014, Ed has made it one of the top twenty performers in the Driver Hire network, with annual turnover well in excess of £1.5m. His target for the year ahead is to move into the top five.

Ed’s had a great start to 2019. He recently collected Driver Hire’s internal training award at the company’s Winter Conference. 

Before becoming a Driver Hire franchisee, Ed spent 28 years working in financial markets around the globe, including New York, Tokyo and London.

Commenting on his awards’ success Ed said: “Whilst it’s my name on the nomination, this award is all about the hard working, motivated and highly diligent five-person team I work alongside. And, of course, Driver Hire, who from day one, have provided support and advice as my turnaround plan developed. It also reflects on my equally talented team of temporary drivers, who are my business ambassadors. Driver Hire Uxbridge’s formula for success is based on close working relationships with our clients and always delivering on both service and promises.”

Chief Executive of the bfa, Pip Wilkins, added: “Ed relished taking on his first franchise for Driver Hire, and through investing in his staff and upskilling, has made the Uxbridge territory one of the highest performers. His focus on client relationships has clearly paid dividends.”

Andrew Brattesani, Head of Franchising, HSBC said: “Ed has transformed this business with an intelligent and innovative turnaround strategy and really taking care of his team. His business has gone from one of the worst performing in the Driver Hire network to one of the best.”

Ed now has to meet the awards’ judges where he will take further questions about his business before going forward to the finals in Birmingham in June where the winner will be announced at a gala dinner.