This year, we’re proud to celebrate a truly special milestone for Omer Erden, our Depot Manager, who marks 25 years of loyal service with Willshee’s.

Omer’s journey with us began back in 2000, when he joined the business at just 21 years old. Having moved to the UK from Turkey in the 1990s with his family, Omer took what he thought would be a temporary job at Willshee’s, working for our founder, Keith Willshee, at the original Burton site, now known as Depot 1.

Over the past quarter of a century, Omer has quite literally done it all. From operating machinery and working across the waste yards, to supporting colleagues and managing day-to-day operations, his hands-on approach and willingness to help have made him a cornerstone of the Willshee’s family. His dedication, reliability, and friendly nature have earned him great respect from everyone who works with him.

Having steadily worked his way up through the business, Omer is now Depot Manager, where his leadership, experience, and calm approach continue to make a big difference. He’s seen Willshee’s evolve from a small local skip hire firm into a multi-site total waste management business – and has been part of that growth every step of the way.

Reflecting on his time with us, Omer says he’s made many great friends through work and that Willshee’s really does feel like one big family. In 2025, he’s taken on a new challenge working from our Swadlincote (Depot 3) Materials Recycling Facility, where he’s bringing his decades of experience to an exciting new environment. He says he’s really enjoying the opportunity to learn new things and contribute in a different way.

Dean Willshee shared his gratitude for Omer’s incredible commitment over the years:

“I want to personally thank Omer for his 25 years’ loyal service to our business, giving us tremendous commitment and hard graft throughout the years. He is a highly regarded and much-loved member of the team, and we are very pleased he is bringing his knowledge and expertise to our materials recycling facility in Swadlincote.”

Congratulations, Omer, on this fantastic milestone – and thank you for your 25 years of dedication, hard work, and friendship.

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