Meet the CHSA secretary

Briefly describe your role and what a typical week looks like?

Typical is probably the one word I’d say doesn’t apply!

I’m often triaging queries, identifying what’s urgent, what’s important, and who’s best placed to respond. Sometimes that’s about connecting people. Sometimes it’s gently steering away enquiries that are not CHSA-related.

I keep a close eye on everything that’s going on behind the scenes – making sure progress is made, deadlines met, and nothing falls through the cracks. I’m also a bit of an ‘eyes and ears’for the Chair, flagging anything important they might not yet be aware of – a slightly Yes Minister-style role at times!

In any given week, I could be:

• Responding to members and prospective members
• Managing the membership process with the Membership Secretary
• Updating and maintaining the membership database
• Evolving the back office to improve our efficiency
• Supporting key projects, AGMs, working groups, and Council meetings
• Organising and managing meetings. Finding dates everyone can do is always a challenge
• Preparing the papers, taking minutes, and chasing actions.

So yes … no two weeks are ever the same.

What attracted you to the CHSA?

I’ve spent my career working with membership and not-for-profit organisations, so it was a natural fit. The CHSA is doing genuinely important work that makes a difference, and it was an opportunity to use that experience in a meaningful way.

What do you love most about your role?

It’s incredibly satisfying when all the moving parts come together – when information is gathered, responses agreed, and a project can move forward. A lot of the work involves coordinating with Council or working group members who are juggling busy day jobs. Knowing when to gently nudge is key.

Why are the Accreditation Schemes so important?

They involve physical audit visits – and that really matters. Many accreditations rely on paperwork, but the Inspector goes into members and checks their products and processes. It’s about ‘holding feet to the flames’ and making sure standards are genuinely met.

What might members not realise about the work behind the Schemes?

Quite how much goes on behind the scenes.

The Schemes are under constant review to make sure they stay relevant and fit for purpose. Updating standards and technical regulations is an ongoing, detailed process … it can feel a bit like painting the Forth Bridge!

We’ve also been developing clearer resources for members to make navigating the complexity of the Schemes as straightforward as possible.

How has the industry changed since you joined?

I became Secretary in March 2020 – just as the pandemic hit – so it was a baptism of fire.

There was an immediate need for fast, accurate communication and regular updates. At the same time, we were setting up the Chemical Manufacturer Accreditation Scheme, so it was a crucial moment for reinforcing standards and sharing that ‘buyer beware’ message.

What do you enjoy most about working with CHSA members?

The people. There are so many friendly, committed individuals – often running businesses or holding senior roles – who give their time and energy to the Association. It’s a real pleasure to support them, and even nicer when you get to ‘put a face to an email’ at events like the Ball.

If you had to describe the CHSA in three words?

Necessary. Worthwhile. Rewarding.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Going to auctions … which can be dangerous! I often come away with things I hadn’t planned to buy and then have absolutely no space for them. They sometimes end up going straight back into another auction.

One memorable purchase was an enormous wooden donkey – big enough to rival the Trojan Horse. Not my wisest investment, but one of the funniest … the whole auction room burst out laughing when I won it!

If you weren’t doing this role, what might you be doing?

Spending far too much time at auction houses.

What might surprise people about you?

I’ve done welding and blacksmithing courses – and made some pretty good pieces! I just haven’t quite found the time to take it further … yet.

How do you like to unwind?

A wine tasting – or enjoying the results of a previous one!

Finally, what message would you like to share with CHSA members?

A lot of your fellow members – many in senior roles – give a significant amount of their time voluntarily to support the Association. They care deeply about the CHSA, its members, and the wider industry, and are committed to ensuring it continues to grow and raise standards.

For more information, visit http://www.chsa.co.uk/

Tel: 0800 243 919