George Barker speaks to Wayne Johnson, the founder of the WJ Group, about his recent win of the Highways Fellowship Award at the inaugural Highways Champions Awards.
There are few people in the history of highways who have had more impact than Wayne Johnson, founder of WJ Group, the UK's leading road marking company. An industry titan, he has changed the shape of the sector forever through his character and vision but also, and perhaps most of all, through his constant focus on that famous company motto: 'Think Exceptional'.
‘For me, you know, it's pretty special,' he explained. ‘I feel honoured to be chosen, but really, it's dedicated to my team. I'm stood here today representing them. So this is all about my team, and I'm really proud.'
Mr Johnson's proudest achievement is 'growing a business over 40 years and all the hard work that involves'.
‘We've gone from two people to 800, and so really to sort of have that recognition from my industry peers is really special. I think I'm an example of what you can do in the highway sector if you make the highways your career choice. Everything's there to be gained, and it's a great career, and [there is] lots of opportunity, especially if you have an entrepreneurial spirit, and there are plenty of ways of creating a business and creating value.'
Mr Johnson finished by extending his thanks to all those that supported him in his highways journey.
‘I would like to thank all my team, board of directors, everybody that's been there from the beginning, right the way through, the people that have retired have helped me and just really, really want to thank all my team for making this a special day.'
