Longest-serving Logistics UK VIS engineer retires

Joining the organisation in 1989, Mick’s technical expertise, professionalism and excellence are reflective of the service VIS, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, provides its customers.

To commemorate almost 37 years spent working for the organisation, Mick shared with Logistics Magazine his responsibilities, major achievements and what he’s most looking forward to in retirement.

Could you talk about your background and history?

My journey in engineering began at Gateshead Technical College, where I studied from 1976 to 1982. During this time, I completed a motor vehicle apprenticeship with Steetley Brick, gaining hands-on experience.

I held roles with Marsden Freight and Bell Trucks (owned by Mercedes) before joining the Freight Transport Association (now Logistics UK) in August 1989 as Area Engineer for the north west of England.

What do VIS engineers do for Logistics UK?

VIS plays a crucial role in providing Logistics UK’s independent, impartial and accredited inspection services. VIS engineers ensure all inspections are carried out accurately, consistently and with complete impartiality.

Some of the work we do involves conducting independent inspections nationwide on a variety of assets including heavy and light commercial vehicles, trailers and passenger-carrying vehicles. We also assess compliance against current industry standards and give operators clear insights to support their maintenance planning and regulatory compliance.

Can you outline your job role and main responsibilities?

As a Senior VIS Engineer, my time is split between leading a regional team of inspection engineers and delivering inspection services. I’m responsible for managing resources, monitoring our performance, maintaining high levels of service, providing pastoral and technical support and ensuring engineers are competent and compliant with standards.

I’ve also supported recruitment, team meetings, been part of regional operations and deputised for senior managers where needed.

What have been your major achievements?

I’ve gained a range of professional skills, qualifications and accreditations spanning vehicle engineering, compliance, lifting operations, training and auditing.

This includes:

• ADR Driver Licence and ADR 1 Inspection.
• AET (Award in Education and Training).
• ALLMI Crane Licence.
• A wide portfolio of audit experience, including BT, IRTE Workshop, Novuna, SLP, VM checks, and Weight checks.

• Certifications in DEFRA, and multiple IRTEC Assessor roles.

• LOLER qualifications across crane, tail lift, and winch operations.

• Specialist technician training, including Liquid Fuel (SLP) and Electric/Hybrid Vehicles (Level 3).

• Vehicle expertise spanning HGV, PSV, EOL (HGV), Electric Milk Floats, and Driver Walk-Around Procedures.

• Transport Manager CPC.

What will you miss the most about working for Logistics UK, and what are you looking forward to in retirement?

I’ll miss the opportunity to visit different locations and interact with new people every day. There’s a strong sense of teamwork and camaraderie at Logistics UK that I’ve enjoyed with my team and fellow engineers.

I’m looking forward to spending more time doing the things I love, which include caravanning, mountain biking, and taking long walks with my dog. It’ll give me the chance to spend more quality time with my wife, Viv, and visit my two grown-up children.

Logistics UK would like to thank Mick for his dedication, expertise and contributions over the years, and wish him the best in retirement.

Logistics UK is currently looking for talented engineers to join its team, for those interested in applying please visit our careers page: https://apply.workable.com/logistics-uk/