The Parking Australia Awards 2017 named James English, Ace Parking Group Director as the winner of Individual Excellence in Parking.  This was an incredible acknowledgement to James for his contribution to the industry.

This prestigious Award celebrates the achievements of an individual in both facilities and innovation throughout the parking sector.  The Award also aims to highlight the industry’s commitment to raising the standards of the current parking industry.

With over 23 years’ experience in the parking industry, James has developed a deep understanding of the key issues and drivers relating to excellent service delivery.  He has successfully applied his operational and methodical approach to many projects he has undertaken in both public and private sectors of the industry.

He has developed his flexible skills with Ace Parking, mastering every aspect of the business to develop a framework which has allowed the company to grow rapidly, yet sustainably.  With insight into all different methods of operation, design, consultation, technology and marketing.  He has also developed a new client and customer base as well as sourcing reliable equipment and suppliers to support the company’s growth.  James has ensured that Ace Parking is not tied to a specific equipment supplier.  This has given him an outstanding knowledge of various parking technology available in the market and has allowed James to consult with clients about the best equipment for their car park.

James lives and breathes the parking industry. It is not unusual to see him assisting with the installation of a parking equipment or changing the rates on a sign on a rainy night.  Some people may find this strange for a Managing Director, but not when parking is in your blood and you care so much about the business.

James is also an active member of Parking Australia, Victoria Police Car Park Operator Forum, Committee member of Melbourne Airport’s Landside Operations,  Committee Member of the Australian Operators Scheme and newly elected Director on the Board of Parking Australia.

His work with charities and community groups both in Australia and abroad set him apart from his fellow nominees, travelling overseas on self-funded travel to work in orphanages and building projects.

In July, this year James embarked on a self-funded Social Venture Program to Thailand. Helping some of the most impoverished people in the world.

To participate in this Program, he was required to fund his own travel, meals and accommodation. With an initial funding goal of $2,000, James quickly passed is fundraising goals. The money raised contributed towards the community projects he worked on during his journey.

During the program, James explored diversity with compassion, sensitivity and develop the ability to create meaningful and lasting change. The Community Programs he was involved in, included ‘Khlong Toei Slums’ of Bangkok where a house was demolished and a brand new home rebuilt, ‘Home Hug Orphanage’ and ‘Sirom’ in Yasothon.

Other charities that Ace Parking support at James’ direction includes:
• Starlight Children’s Foundation
• RSPCA Million Paws Walk
• Peter Mac Cancer Foundation

James won the Award for Individual Excellence in Parking when he demonstrated that he is a leader in the industry and a strategic thinker.  He makes a difference and assists in implementing Ace Parking’s vision.  His positive approach to business clearly enhances the parking industry and its people.

We congratulate James English at Ace Parking for being recognised at this year’s Parking Australia Awards as the winner in the category of Individual Excellence in Parking.