In Profile - Duncan Millar

Duncan Millar - Landfill Site Manager

Duncan graduated from University of Dundee with a degree in Environmental Management and joined CWM in summer 2007.

"I had worked within the waste industry before joining CWM but had no relevant experience of operating a landfill site when I joined the company. Previously I had worked in recycling for a short time with Midlothian Council. The training opportunities here are excellent, and the company believes in investing in staff, so there are a lot of courses offered. I have just gained a COTC (Certificate of Technical Competence) in Non-Hazardous Landfill. This qualification is achieved by doing the job and building an evidence portfolio."

From day to day, Duncan is responsible for the operations of the Hespin Wood Landfill site, ensuring the site operates within the limits of its Environmental permit, and he is also responsible for the welfare and safety of the 13 personnel who report to directly to him. Surprisingly, it is the weather that plays the larger part in this, as the landfill operation has to change according to the ever-varying Cumbrian conditions.

"We always have to be aware of the weather. It has an impact on where we can landfill, and whether we tip in the cell or the litter net. The wind can create unnecessary litter, and heavy rain can cause surface water problems."

As you can see, unlike office-bound managers, Duncan wears a hard-hat, hi-vis jacket and steel-toe boots.

"I have to be very reactive to what happens on site, if we need sort something out, or deal with a staff issue, and there's a lot of variety. I do have meetings to attend, but I am also out on site through the day, getting muddy, talking to people."

Duncan believes the key to success of the landfill operation lies in good communications:

"Good communications are vital here. You definitely need to be motivated and have the ability to communicate well."

Duncan Millar can be indirectly contacted at:
enquiries@cumbriawaste.co.uk
Tel: (01228) 822100

(Interview December 2008)