The people behind the wheel: Andreas Schorling’s story, FlixBus UK

Can you tell us about your role at FlixBus?

As Managing Director of FlixBus UK, my role began in 2019, initially to scope out the market in preparation for Flix’s arrival. I then began building a team.

As you can imagine, timing this alongside a global pandemic wasn’t easy, but we were determined to make it a success, and we officially launched in 2021.

Fast-forward to 2023, we are now in a phase of phenomenal growth, doubling our network compared to 2022. Using Flix’s clear vision, I oversee our growth strategy, the team and the execution of our work, which ultimately aims to fulfil our mission to build the largest coach network in the country and drive the transformation to sustainable travel.

What inspired you to seek a career in the transport industry?

A solid transport system is a fundamental element of a well-functioning economy, which had initially motivated me to move into the sector. Then, Flix’s mission and values around the democratisation of transport, with sustainability at its core, also resonated with me. I’ve been lucky to travel for much of my life – I spent several years in Italy growing up, studied in Sweden, backpacked across the world after university, and worked in Russia, Nigeria, Rwanda and the Netherlands, before settling in London 10 years ago.

I believe that travel broadens the mind, builds connections and offers new ways of thinking – everyone deserves to experience these things.

Have you experienced any challenges in your role and, if yes, how have you overcome them?

Credit: FlixBus

Flix is thriving in 42 countries – launching in Chile in 2023 – with India to come in 2024! We’ve found that every market has specific opportunities and challenges. For the UK, establishing a brand in a mature coach industry was unique compared to most other regions. It meant that we had to bring a fresh perspective to a well-developed sector. We took a bold approach, positioning ourselves as disruptors of the status quo and proactively communicating our growth story, mission and values to every stakeholder.

Has a career in transport changed your perception of the industry as a whole?

Being a part of the UK coach industry has opened my eyes to the vast number of small and medium – and often family-owned – operators who work incredibly hard to deliver high-quality services to passengers, often in challenging conditions. For example, while some modes of transport stop during the festive period, the coach sector continues operating 365 days a year.

I am inspired by the partners on our network, each of whom has shown dedication to advancing transport for the UK.

What would be the top three highlights of your career in the industry to date?

Officially launching FlixBus in the UK is a hugely memorable moment for me – I’ll never forget seeing that first green vehicle pulling into Victoria Coach Station. It felt like the start of something special.

In the past two years, we’ve launched many things that I’m deeply proud of: international routes, cross-country services and a dedicated Scottish network. Through these times, I have made special memories with my Flix team. We make sure to celebrate the successes together, motivating us to continue growing and building.

Finally, winning Best Bus Service at the National Transport Awards, and Going For Growth at the UK Bus Awards in 2023 has been the icing on the cake of a tremendous journey so far. I often say, this is just the beginning, and there are many more highlights to come.

Credit: FlixBus

What key pieces of advice would you give to someone interested in a career in transport?

My advice to anyone before selecting a career path is to develop self-awareness, to truly understand who you are and where you want to go; from there, you can set out your long-term ambition. Read, read, read – I truly believe that this is the best way to educate and better yourself. And, finally, once you’ve determined your goal, show up every single day to make it happen.

In terms of transport careers, developments in technology and data analytics will play a key role in transforming the sector. Flix is the category leader, disrupting the long-distance travel market as a result of our focus on developing cutting-edge software and digital platforms. Take note of the technological solutions that are delivering transport and consider how these will advance in the future.

The final recommendation for any kind of transport role is to make the effort to be around the people using and delivering your transport service. I put aside regular time to be in London’s Victoria Coach Station, working a shift with our excellent team of agents, speaking to drivers and meeting passengers. Staying connected to the services unearths the details that turn a good journey into a great one and also serves as a reminder of why we do what we do.

In an ideal world, what do you hope the future of public transport will look like?

Affordable, sustainable and reliable – for everyone, everywhere, to travel the world.