Spotlight: Engineering Team - New Structure & Managers

Spotlight: Engineering Team – New Structure & Managers

We’ve recently made some changes within the Engineering team, all with one clear goal in mind: to create the best possible environment for our engineers to succeed, grow, and showcase their talents.

What’s new:

• Engineering Team Lead: dedicated focus on day-to-day running of the team, improving support and communication.

• Technical Engineering Leads: recognising technical experts who guide best practice, share knowledge, and represent our skills with clients.

• Engineering Levels 1–3: providing clarity, recognition, and clear progression pathways for all engineers.

These changes bring more structure, clarity, and opportunity, setting the team up to thrive and deliver even greater impact.

Meet the Managers

Simon McGowan – Engineering Team Lead (Derby, North East & Scotland)

• Background: Over 20 years in the water industry, having worked as a hygiene engineer, risk assessor, supervisor, operations manager, regional service manager, and accounts manager.

• Team: Leading 26 engineers across Derby, the North East, and Scotland.

• Focus: Ensuring engineers have the time, training, and equipment needed to deliver the high standards expected by clients.

• Looking ahead: Supporting engineers in achieving their goals, building a strong team culture, and being a voice for their concerns.

• How to connect: Simon has set up a team chat for engineers in his region and can also be reached on 07971 924229 or s.mcgowan@sms-environmental.co.uk.

Gosia – Team Lead, Risk Assessors

• Background: Experienced in leading risk assessors across operational and compliance activities.

• Team: Managing a group of around 20 risk assessors.

• Focus: Strengthening onboarding, ensuring regional coverage, maintaining high-quality assessment documents, and supporting compliance completion.

• Looking ahead: Building a motivated and high-performing team, developing efficient ways of working, and keeping compliance at the core of operations.

• How to connect: Gosia is always happy to connect—message, call, or catch her in the office or on-site.

Sam Hayman – Engineering Team Lead (South, PPM Engineers)

• Background: New to the industry, bringing fresh insight from similar roles in other sectors.

• Team: Leading all PPM engineers across the South.

• Focus: Supporting and guiding the team, ensuring engineers feel valued, and getting to know the team and their work in detail.

• Looking ahead: Building strong relationships, understanding the industry, and helping the team succeed in their roles.

• How to connect: Based in the Harwell office—drop by, send an email, or reach out via IM.