With a wealth of experience in the waste management sector, Susan Purnell plays a leading role at Willshee’s. As Commercial and Technical Manager, she is involved in a wide range of areas across the business, from managing the commercial team to overseeing compliance and handling complex waste streams. In this Q&A, we get an insight into Sue’s career journey, her day-to-day responsibilities, and what she finds most rewarding about working in the industry.

Q: Can you describe your current role? What does a typical day look like for you?

A: I oversee the Commercial Team and directly manage some of our largest customers. My role also involves assisting with compliance, particularly in relation to waste-in processes, and managing hazardous, chemical, liquid and other complex waste streams.

Beyond that, I work closely with our teams across the business, including Transport and Depots, SHEQ, Sales, Accounts and Marketing, to provide support and guidance wherever needed. While most of my work revolves around waste and recycling, there’s never a dull moment, and I find myself involved in all sorts of projects.

There really isn’t a ‘typical’ day in my role. One phone call or email can completely change the course of my day, bringing new challenges and opportunities to solve.

Q: How did you start in the waste management industry, and what has your career journey been like?

A: My journey started in a very different field! At secondary school, I knew I didn’t want to take A-levels, so I applied for a YTS position in a laboratory at Burton Hospital, where I tested medicines. This led to a BTEC in Science, followed by a role in food testing and an HNC in Chemistry.

I later moved to a role at Derby University, testing medicines for shelf life, while completing my Chemistry degree.

I was working as a Site Chemist when I first encountered the waste industry. I managed a project to empty and clean two industrial waste pits, which involved working with a specialist waste company. That experience piqued my interest, and when I was later approached about a Chemist role at an oil-water treatment facility, I jumped at the opportunity.

Since then, I’ve worked across various areas of waste management, gaining my WAMITAB CoTC Level 4 in hazardous waste transfer and treatment, becoming a Technical Assessor, and later qualifying as an IEMA auditor and Chartered Waste Manager. I worked as a National Account Manager for a paper mill before joining Willshee’s in 2018. I’ve had a varied journey, but it has given me a deep understanding of the industry.

Q: What do you find most rewarding about working at Willshee’s and in the waste management industry?

A: The variety of work is something I truly enjoy. Every customer is different, and so are their waste and recycling needs. One day I could be visiting a food manufacturer, the next a brewery or distribution centre. It’s fascinating to see how different industries operate and to help them streamline their waste processes.

I also find it incredibly rewarding when a customer, industry peer, or colleague reaches out with a challenge, and I can help find a solution. Being part of that problem-solving process is what makes this job so fulfilling.

Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your role, and how do you overcome them?

A: One of the biggest challenges is that there just aren’t enough hours in the day! With so many aspects of the business to support, prioritisation is key. I stay organised by focusing on what’s most urgent and ensuring I have a great team around me to help tackle the workload. Collaboration is essential in a fast-moving industry like ours.

Q: What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

A: I love learning new skills! Between finishing my degree and the Covid lockdown, I always took evening classes. One of my favourite courses was three years of British Sign Language – it was a fantastic experience.

Join Sue at the Women in Recycling Conference

Sue will be attending the Women in Recycling conference at The Belfry Hotel & Resort on Friday, 7 March. If you’re attending, be sure to connect with her to discuss the latest industry insights and innovations!

For more information on how Willshee’s can support your business, visit https://www.willshees.co.uk/

Back