Posted on
The Hoggett Bowers 2 Minute Interview: Ian McAulay

Significant storms bringing torrential rain and potential flooding along with strong winds causing power outages/blips which disrupted water treatment works continuity.
Summer water demand. The pandemic has meant people are, quite understandably, now using around 10% more water. Last summer, with high temperatures and no travel overseas we experienced long durations where peak demands which were closer to 30%.
For a very significant number of our staff it’s been little change. We’re a 24/7 business and our essential workers need to be at the treatment works, control centres and out in the field. Personally I’ve had to very substantially cut back my time on operational sites and work much more from home. Now I’m actually looking forward to being able to get back out with the teams.
In short yes. It’s already well underway. Existing tools which were already good have improved further and new ones introduced. At the same time the workforce has become more digitally competent and comfortable. That’s a strong combination driving acceleration and I expect that to continue.
As I noted for many operational colleagues their place of work will not change radically. For others, the change will be bigger. For everyone though we are using technology to give more flexibility to their working day and activities. For example improved collaboration tools help eliminate unnecessary travel and Video/VR means we can bring expertise virtually to sites from anywhere in our operation.
Travel reduction in lockdown for a business like ours has been an easy win and will continue. However as a sector we have committed to achieving Net Zero by 2030 so future plans are bigger and bolder. Greater energy efficiency, including switching to sustainable supply, increased production from our own biosolids resources and moves towards EV are good examples.
I had my hip replaced which has been liberating. I’ve made time to walk the South Downs regularly now which is great for physical and mental wellbeing and that will continue.
My children, who are in their twenties. The last year has been so tough for their generation but listening to their enthusiastic plans to emerge from lockdown has been uplifting. And I’m looking forward to seeing them very soon!
Yes it’s booked. Orkney and Shetland in September. Ideal!
“Having the will to win is nowhere near as important as having the will to prepare to win”. Do the prep.