Colleague Spotlight: Rachel Ashby, Group Environmental Co-Ordinator
What is your role at The Tibbetts Group?
“I’m the Group Environmental Co-Ordinator, which in essence means providing robust and accurate support in the administration of the Tibbetts Group’s Environmental Management System.
“I lead the Group’s ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) initiatives on a day-to-day basis. This involves conducting site audits and tracking environmental data. We record our business miles, energy usage, waste quantities and how this is disposed of, and more.”
How long have you worked at The Tibbetts Group?
“My third work anniversary will be in April.”
What encouraged you to go into this career?
“I find environmental issues fascinating; we have to act now to protect the future for others.
“I completed a course about Understanding Environmental Sustainability, which was very interesting, and I have knowledge from a previous role at an environmental consultancy.
“I had worked in HR for over 20 years, but was excited at the opportunity of becoming Group Environmental Co-Ordinator once the role became available. The Tibbetts Group are really good at giving individuals the chance to move around the company and try new roles for career growth.”
Are there any significant projects which you are currently working on?
“Our carbon footprint is a major focus, identifying opportunities to improve year-on-year. One significant example is our offices and warehouses’ transition to 100% green energy.
“I’ve also recently enjoyed delivering an education programme around all our divisions, focusing on waste management.”
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
“I do lots of walking – great for relaxing and clearing the mind – as well as cycling, at the moment. When not being energetic, I love reading and knitting; I knit for charity.”
Do you have a particularly interesting hobby?
“I’ve enjoyed doing the Moonwalk in London three times in a bra and tutu, raising money for breast cancer awareness. The last time I did that was around eight or nine years ago. My friend and I raised around £1000 for that, at the time.”
Do you follow a sports team?
“No, although I do keep up to date on Oxford United as my dad has supported them for over 60 years. I also love Darts and Cricket – 20/20 and The Hundred, rather than test cricket.”
What is your favourite film or television genre?
“We often have sport on TV, and I did enjoy watching Happy Valley. The Holiday is my favourite film, but I don’t sit down in front of the TV very often.”
What’s your favourite holiday destination?
“We spend around five weeks of the year in the Lake District. As soon as we get off the M6 and onto the A66, the shoulders start to relax, and the pace of life tends to slow down.”
What’s something that you’ve always wanted to try or learn?
“I’ve always wanted to run; I’ve done several 5Ks, but it’s not something which I’ve kept up with due to recurring back and hip issues.
“I also enjoy learning; it’s always good to learn something new!”