Sarah Coleman

Past Graduate Environmental

Started at Yorkshire Water in 1998

I lead a team of 23 technical specialists who provide support to operations. This support is really important to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.  In addition we develop and implement capital asset improvements, minimising risk to operations, and ensure an effective sewer network by working with developers and contract partners and by undertaking proactive network inspections.

Post scheme, I managed waste water Research & Development projects and became Yorkshire Waters technical specialist on the nutrient removal processes. I then took the role of Asset Planner on the capital programme managing a small team prioritising risk and making business cases for investment. I then had a great opportunity for a two year secondment working on a change programme.

Then on to my current role, I was recruited into cross-business Research & Development and a technically oriented role, therefore I received an excellent grounding in Sewage Treatment Works processes, as well as brief stints in other teams across Yorkshire Water giving me an all round understanding of business pressures and drivers.

There is no lack of opportunities and plenty of different roles to try but you've got to be in it to win it!