Stephen Slessor - who identifies as working class - and has built a stellar career in the water sector - reflects on his own story and explains why he faced unequal treatment as a working class person. In discussion with host Lila, an honest and insightful appraisal is made of where the UK water sector is on class... and what it can do to improve.
Beneath The Surface
Through powerful stories and real-life examples, Beneath The Surface highlights EDI topics in the water sector, sharing personal experiences and best practices that inspire change. It brings attention to the voices of under-represented groups, with a focus on attracting diverse talent and fostering a culture of inclusion.
By connecting senior leaders and rising professionals from different backgrounds, it creates a space where ideas flourish, synergies are built, and the industry moves closer to becoming a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all.
Beneath The Surface is co-hosted by British Water's CEO, Lila Thompson, and Perminder Atwal, HR Business Partner, Xylem UK & Ireland.
Podcast Co-host- Lila Thompson, British Water, CEO
Lila is responsible for British Water’s strategic direction, representing the interests of UK water and wastewater supply chain companies together with wider stakeholders across the sector, through the UK, Technical and International forums. The Water Industry Forum provides challenge-led, independent thought leadership, to tackle the challenges facing the sector. Lila was formerly responsible for British Water’s international services and led business development visits to a range of markets including Saudi Arabia, Libya, Morocco, Russia, Romania, Bulgaria, China, and India. Lila has over 20 years of experience driving business growth, policy development, and stakeholder engagement in a variety of sectors.
Podcast Co-host- Perminder Atwal, HR Business Partner, Xylem UK & Ireland
With 18 years of HR experience spanning manufacturing, engineering, logistics, and now the water industry, Perminder has developed a deep understanding of business and strategy, and her journey has also highlighted the critical role of company culture and psychological safety in driving engagement, business success, innovation, and development. Perminder is passionate about ensuring the accessibility of clean water for all. A trip to India in her early years revealed the harsh reality of limited and unclean water resources, particularly impacting children, which was heartbreaking. This experience fuelled her dedication to helping others and reinforced her commitment to working in a global organisation focused on the social value of water.
