Honours degree in Zoology, Member of the Institute of Biology and a chartered biologist. Started my career as a technical officer in the then British Rail Disinfestation Section. Later ran the Southern office of the BR Pest Control Unit. In the late 1980s was responsible for contracting out pest control throughout BR and contract supervision. Was appointed Executive Director of the BPCA in 1988.
How
did you first come to be involved in pest control?
Pest control provided the best opportunity to use my degree in a practical way (other than teaching). I specialised in Entomology during my 3rd year with a pest control career in mind
What
is your favourite aspect of the pest control industry?
The variety and thefact that there are relatively few pest control problems which cannot be solved with a little application and ingenuity.
Least
favourite aspect of the pest control industry?
The public perception of pest control as a low tech 'craft'
What
is the biggest challenge you have faced in your career?
To advance the interests of members of the BPCA
What
advice would you give to anyone thinking of a career in pest
control?
It is a varied and interesting career. Don't ever think you know everything and don't ever stop learning. Do not be oblivious to new ideas. Be prepared to be a psychologist as well as a pest controller. Try and understand your customer's point of view and also the view of those who do not share your opinions. Think very carefully about the responsibility of having to kill animals. Always look around you and consider the possible implications of your actions
What
motivates and drives you?
To find new ways to forward the interests of BPCA members
Do
you have any remaining or unfulfilled ambitions? What are
they?
Yes.....!
Has
the industry changed much during your career? How?
Yes, enormously! Changes have been led by legislation and have 'professionalised' the industry during the last 10 - 15 years.
