As part of this month’s focus on the people behind the issues, we’re highlighting those whose daily work drives real environmental change. We have been in conversations with Nicole, Southern Water’s Head of Strategic Partnerships in the Clean Rivers and Seas Taskforce, about her work to reduce storm overflows and improve the health of our waterways.
What problem is the Taskforce most urgently trying to solve right now?
We’re focused on sustainably reducing storm overflows, improving bathing water quality, and providing accurate, real-time environmental data for the public. Accountability is really important, which is why we want to be transparent on progress, enabling communities to see what work we are doing and when.
For readers less familiar with your role — what does “Head of Strategic Partnerships” actually involve?
A lot of my role is working with internal and external partners to find the right solutions to water challenges. That might mean introducing green spaces that boost biodiversity and reduce flooding. No two days are ever the same, and much of my time goes into keeping people believing that we can achieve more than we think possible.
What’s one misconception about river and coastal water quality that you’d like to correct?
Many assume reducing storm overflows alone will solve everything, but water quality is affected by a web of factors. If we don’t take a holistic approach, we risk fixing one issue while ignoring others. Every contributing factor needs to be tackled together.
Partnerships are a buzzword in the sector. What does a real partnership look like to you?
It starts with honest, transparent conversations that build trust. No one has all the answers, but together, we can make big strides. Partnerships also depend on genuine relationships. You have to understand the person behind the role, stay open-minded, and believe in the possibility of success.
What’s one shift happening in the water industry that people aren’t talking about enough?
The scale of recruitment! We’re seeing fresh energy and ideas enter the industry like never before. It’s exciting to watch more people, your friends, neighbours, and community becoming part of the solution.
What innovation excites you most right now?
Emerging technologies that let us monitor water quality in real time are game-changing. I’m also intrigued by the changing regulatory landscape, that could transform how we manage and protect our water resources.
What originally drew you to the water sector?
I actually came to it through frustration, I saw a BBC news piece about a storm overflow near my home and was shocked it could happen. A job in the team tackling overflows came up a month later, and I thought, “why not play my part?” Four years on, I still feel as energised to be helping improve the environment and proud of the work the team are doing.
How do you stay motivated when the public and political spotlight is intense?
You have to believe what you’re doing matters. Some days it’s difficult, especially when people assume you don’t care, the truth is we care deeply. On those days, taking a step back, listening, engaging in honest conversations, and remembering why you do it helps you keep going.
Any recommendations for your colleagues in the sector?
Two great podcasts are Waterfall by CCW and WUN4All from Women in Utilities. But I’d also say — balance is vital. I love The Rest is Entertainment, or just an easy-read book now and then to switch the brain off!
If you could change one thing about the sector overnight, what would it be?
I’d encourage everyone to embrace change and calculated risk. We can’t keep saying, “this is how we’ve always done it”. Challenges are hard — they always will be — but belief in progress is what will drive us toward a better future for our rivers and seas.
If you want to discuss this interview or the water sector in greater detail, please contact Jordan Rowse, Account Director at Copper Consultancy.