Breaking Barriers in Wastewater: Hannah Wicks on Leadership and Empowerment
Before joining Willow Pumps, Hannah spent a decade exporting drainage and plumbing products worldwide. In 2014, she joined Willow Pumps as a Contracts Administrator for the supply and installation division. Two years later, Hannah transitioned into the Service division, taking on key account management. This role allowed her to build strong customer relationships and onboard several major accounts, contributing to the company’s growth. In 2023, Hannah stepped into her current position as Head of Service & Operations, leading their team and driving operational excellence.
What challenges did you face as a woman in your career, and how did you overcome them?
Hannah tells us ‘Gender stereotyping has been the biggest challenge. It’s still uncommon for women to take hands-on roles in the wastewater industry, and my technical knowledge has been questioned more times than I can count’. There have been instances where Hannah has provided the same information as a male colleague, yet the validation was given to them instead. Hannah offers the stance she likes to take. ‘Confidence. I stand firm in my expertise and let my work speak for itself. I also love getting out on-site with my team, I’ve been known to get covered in the ‘nasty stuff’ right alongside them!’
Who or what has inspired you along the way?
‘I’ve been fortunate to have incredibly supportive managers who recognised my strengths and encouraged me to push further in my career. A strong support network has been instrumental in my development, giving me the confidence to step up and take on leadership roles’.
What is a moment or achievement you are particularly proud of in your career?
Hannah shares that becoming the first female member of the senior management team was a defining moment. Not only was it a personal milestone, but it also allowed her to advocate for other female colleagues at a leadership level. Representation matters, and she takes pride in ensuring women’s voices are heard in decision-making spaces.
How do you feel your work has contributed to changing the landscape for women in your industry?
In a traditionally male-dominated field, Hannah has actively mentored and supported other women, helping them navigate challenges, build confidence, and develop their skills.
Willow Pumps now employs three highly skilled female pump engineers working alongside their male colleagues, proof that talent and capability are not defined by gender. These achievements are steps toward breaking down industry stereotypes and fostering inclusivity.
What advice would you give to women looking to rise to leadership positions in this field?
Hannah offers some straight talking advice that she hopes will inspire others ‘Set a long-term goal and then break it down into smaller, achievable milestones. Stay determined and focused on hitting each one. Growth and leadership take time, but consistency and resilience will get you where you want to be.’
What does ‘success’ mean to you, both professionally and personally?
For Hannah, ‘success is about continuous learning, developing my expertise, and excelling in my field. But it’s also about balance ensuring I have the time to enjoy life outside of work while continuing to grow professionally’.
What’s the most powerful lesson you’ve learned in your career?
Hannah has learned that success is never a solo effort, it’s a team game. A strong, motivated, and committed team makes even the toughest challenges possible to overcome. ‘The best results come when responsibilities and opportunities are shared’.
Hannah is confident the future is promising for women in the industry, but progress doesn’t happen without effort. It’s important to keep pushing for greater representation, leadership opportunities, and equal recognition. ‘Women supporting women will be the key to shaping a more inclusive industry.’
Hannah strongly believes in open collaboration, networking, and mentorship, these are the foundations for a stronger, more diverse workforce. Willow Pumps now employs three highly skilled female pump engineers working alongside their male colleagues, ‘proof that talent and capability are not defined by gender’
‘Together, we can redefine what leadership looks like in our field’.
‘Set a long-term goal and then break it down into smaller, achievable milestones. Stay determined and focused on hitting each one. Growth and leadership take time, but consistency and resilience will get you where you want to be.’
‘Women supporting women will be the key to shaping a more inclusive industry.’
Hannah Wicks, Head of Service & Operations at Willow Pumps
