What I do

My job title is Chief Operating Officer and that involves a bit of everything. I support the report writing process, going out to sites to either inspect them or carry out sampling and surveys. Being a business owner means that I get involved with all the administration as well.

Hear more about Joe's role by watching the video below...

How I became a technician

At high school I took science and PE, went to sixth form and did AS-levels, then dropped out after that as I didn’t enjoy it. I did Business at AS-level and my dad has always owned his own business. I worked with my dad for a while where I picked up a lot of stuff over time about running a business – I really wish they taught this in schools.

My brother did a degree in Environmental Science and wanted to pursue a career as an Environmental Consultant or Scientist. He found that the jobs available wanted experience, or they were either only in the office or too much on site. Having a business background myself, I recommended we try setting up a business offering surveys. That’s how we got started and it has grown from there.

A typical day in my
working life

If I am in the office, I spend time responding to emails and calls first thing in the morning. For the rest of the day, I do support writing for reports and follow up on morning enquiries.

If I am going to a site, I like to go first thing in the morning, around 7am. I will do whatever is needed on site – that might involve taking photos and making notes; it might involve sampling, which could also involve getting contractors with a drilling rig on site; it might just be me with a shovel, sampling probe or water scoop.

I’ll usually be back by mid-afternoon, and then I respond to the emails and queries that have built up during the day. Before I finish for the day, I need to make sure the admin from all the other site visits is completed.

A little more about
my everyday role

What I love most about my job

The variety! I work for domestic clients so someone might want an extension at the back of their house and, as part of the planning permission, they will need a flood risk assessment. I also work for local authorities, government, and companies, including on really interesting projects such as ports or oil depots. We have worked with ZSL London Zoo and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

The most exciting thing I’ve achieved so far in my job

We were able to donate to the World Land Trust. We have planted 515 trees with the donations – it's nice to be able to do that. And the fact that we now get so many regular clients is an indication that we are good at what we do.

The next steps in my career journey

Continue to build the business! We are actually expanding, and I will give anyone a chance if they are capable and willing to learn. We are getting a new office soon and employing more people.

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