People Spotlight: Brenda Smith

Meet Brenda Smith! Brenda is our ‘go-to’ person for all things billing related.  With over 40 years of service, Brenda has seen some changes over the years! Read our latest employee spotlight…

Hi Brenda, tell us about your career journey

Well let’s say I’ve been in the water industry for a long time! I started out as an Admin Assistant in the Water & Drainage department in Central Regional Council in 1979.  Since then I’ve worked with the same company under its various transformations for over forty years.

There’s never been a dull moment! I’ve enjoyed various roles including purchasing, stock control, accounts payable and billing.  In my early years I managed reception and switchboard.  Our equipment was so archaic that we donated it to the BT Museum (sadly it has now closed…)

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Definitely the variety!  I support teams across Horizons which means no two days are ever the same.  Usually there are tons of things to do but I like to keep busy so the days just fly by.

I also love to organise social events and support local charity projects.

What’s the biggest highlight of your experience so far?

It would have to be the Scottish Water Long Service Awards at the Waldorf Astoria in Edinburgh to celebrate my 40 years of service.   What a brilliant night it was.  I got the chance to meet some familiar faces and have a good yarn about the old days.  It has been a quick four decades and have loved every minute of it.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to socialise with friends and family. I also enjoying knitting as its very relaxing and helps me unwind at the end of a busy day.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

I’ve spent many holidays in Canada and the USA visiting family which I’ve thoroughly enjoyed. But I’d love to visit New Zealand. Did you know its sheep out-number people? Or that you can pay with hobbit money?! Amazing!  I’d also love to see its scenery first hand – I’m sure it’s even more spectacular than in the movies!

If you could take three things to a desert island with you, what would you bring?

I’d take my knitting to keep busy; a thick book to get lost in; and a bottle of red wine or gin to get the party started!

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I used to train twice a week in Karate and got as far as being awarded my brown belt (one belt below black).

What would your perfect Saturday look like?

I’d love to spend the afternoon sitting in a beach bar overlooking the sea with a few cocktails in hand.  There’d be good music in the background, or some hearty entertainment…one can only dream!

Thanks Brenda! You can find our whole People Spotlight series here.