Hi, I’m Lee
I’m Operations Manager at Rabbit Waste Management. I joined the biomass power plant in August 2018 as a technician and have worked my way up through the roles to where I am today. That journey has given me a solid understanding of how each part of the plant operates and what the team needs day to day.
What does your role involve?
The core of my role is making sure the plant runs safely, reliably and in line with all regulations. I oversee performance, ensure we meet environmental standards and work closely with suppliers and contractors to make sure we have everything we need to keep the plant running.
I also spend time supporting the team, helping diagnose and resolve issues, improving processes and looking for ways we can operate more efficiently. A big part of the role is making sure everything works together as it should.
What’s your background?
My background started in the Royal Navy, where I worked as a Marine Engineer. That experience gave me a strong technical foundation, as well as discipline and an operational mindset.
After leaving the Navy, I worked at a local anaerobic digestion facility as both a baler operator and a fitter. That gave me a deeper understanding of waste-to-energy processes before I joined Rabbit and continued to build my experience here.
What do you find most rewarding about the job?
The most rewarding part is seeing the team perform at a high level and continually look for ways to improve. Whether it’s making the most of maintenance periods or refining how we run the plant, there’s always a focus on doing better.
We work closely as a team and there’s a real sense of pride in what we achieve together.
What can be challenging?
Stepping into this role has come with a lot of responsibility and a steep learning curve. I’ve gone from following plans to being responsible for creating and coordinating them, as well as troubleshooting more complex issues.
There’s always something new to learn, and staying open to that is key.
How has Rabbit supported you?
The support across the team has been excellent. Everyone shares knowledge and works together to keep the plant operating at its best.
From early on, I felt that my input was valued. When I first joined, I suggested a modification to improve efficiency on a piece of equipment. That idea was taken seriously and implemented, which showed me that contributions are genuinely listened to here.
What do you pride yourself on?
I take pride in the hard work and determination that have shaped my career so far. I place a strong emphasis on honesty, integrity and accountability.
Creating a supportive and collaborative environment is important to me. When people feel valued and confident, they perform at their best, and that has a direct impact on how well the plant runs.
What are your goals for the next year?
Over the next year, I want to spend more time out on the plant, identifying areas where we can improve processes and reliability.
I’m also focused on strengthening training and development across the team, making sure everyone has the skills and confidence to carry out their roles safely and effectively. Supporting the team and maintaining strong morale will be a big part of that.
Why is Rabbit a great place to work?
It’s the people that make it. The team is welcoming, hardworking and always willing to support each other.
Being part of a family-run business creates a strong sense of belonging. There’s open communication, a positive atmosphere and a real feeling that everyone is working towards the same goal.
