Rising Stars: Will Finlay, laboratory project manager, South East Water

This week we profile Will Finlay, laboratory project manager with South East Water and one of the Institute of water’s Rising Stars of 2016.

What was your first job?

I worked for a restaurant as a pot washer.

How did you come to join your company?

I started working for South East Water as a temporary employee in the laboratory and after being with the company for a couple of months they created a full-time position for me.

How long have you been with them?

I have been with South East Water for 12 years now.

What has been your best achievement since joining?

As the laboratory project manager, I oversaw the complete laboratory relocation and transfer of methods. I was part of a project team responsible for the design of the new water testing facility. This was completed with no break in UKAS accreditation, meaning that service continuity was maintained for all sample analysis.

What preconception about your company did you find was most wrong?

I was very surprised with the vast range of different areas of the business and the different skill sets within South East Water.

Who would play you in the film of your life?

Johnny Depp, as he has played some very different and interesting roles.

What’s your favourite film and TV programme?

Pulp Fiction (film); Match of the Day (TV).

What would you do if you ruled the world?

I would make wholesome water and free healthcare available for all, and also have a football world cup every year.

What’s your favourite joke?

A man comes to Mrs Smith’s door and says: “There’s been an accident at the brewery. Your husband fell into a vat of beer and drowned.”

Mrs. Smith wails: “Oh, the poor man! He never had a chance!”

The man says: “I don’t know about that. He got out three times to go to the bathroom.”

Do you have a message for the industry?

Regulatory water analysis is central to ensuring that tap water continues to be of the highest standard. It is important that everyone in the water industry appreciates the high levels of competency behind this testing as we strive to comply with the demands set by our regulators.

There is currently a lot of emphasis in the industry on continuous professional development, better known as CPD, which I think is great. We should embrace all the available support around us in order to reach our full potential.

Find out more about the Institute of Water’s Rising Stars programme at: www.institureofwater.org.uk/rising-stars/