Ann-Marie joined Keeler in October 2023 as part of the HFL (Halma Future Leader) program.

Previously stationed at Cranford Controls, Ann-Marie has gained experience in a variety of companies, across a variety of department functions. She joined Keeler for 6-months, supporting key sustainability projects including reducing the carbon impact of power supplies we put into the market, sustainable packaging and enhancing the efficiency of our energy usage in our UK, Windsor office.

How did you hear about the HFL program and what attracted you to it?

I first learned about the program from a friend who works as an Engineer at one of Halma’s companies. Having just moved to the UK from Kenya in 2022, I was eager to explore job opportunities after finishing my Masters in Survey Methods for Social Research.

He mentioned that the program offers experience in four different functions across four businesses in various locations over two years. This was fully supported from a training perspective offering development sessions on various business topics aimed at preparing participants for a business Director role within five years. This sounded like an exciting and challenging opportunity, so I spent weeks lurking on the Halma website waiting for the applications to open – and as they say, the rest is history!

What industries/departments have you gained experience in so far?

I have worked in two companies so far and I’m preparing to transition to my third. At my first role with Cranford Controls, a fire safety company, I focused on Digital Marketing to enhance the company’s online presence. This position served as an excellent entry into the graduate scheme, and I found working with the Managing Director, an alumnus of the HFL Scheme, particularly rewarding.

I then moved to Keeler to work on various sustainability projects to help transform the business in line with their vision. Here I gained a practical experience of working for a larger company as Keeler is a big, global brand with lots of people who I have enjoyed working with. I have also gained a lot of knowledge about sustainability, and I am now even considering a career in sustainability post program.

What projects have you worked on at Keeler and how do these tie into the brand’s sustainability objectives?

Keeler has been actively pursuing greater sustainability in its operations. Through a structured six-stream approach, the company has identified key areas for reducing its carbon footprint including energy, waste management and recycling, people and business, products, transport and supply chain and packaging.

Within this framework, my focus was on two critical aspects: packaging and product sustainability. Packaging has been a significant priority for Keeler, and I’ve been deeply involved in exploring solutions to minimise plastic waste sent to landfills. Collaborating closely with our supply chain team and packaging suppliers, we’ve made considerable strides in finding viable alternatives.

In addition, I’ve been working to integrate sustainability into Keeler’s New Product Development (NPD) process. It’s been eye-opening to learn that over 80% of a product’s environmental impact stems from decisions made during its development. By embedding sustainable practices from the outset, we’re ensuring that our products have a positive impact throughout their lifecycle. It’s exciting to see Keeler’s commitment to developing more sustainable products.

What projects have you found the most rewarding?

That’s like asking a parent to pick their favourite child – pretty tough! Each project I’ve worked on has been fulfilling in its own way.

When I was working on integrating sustainability into NPD, I led a workshop with a team that had colleagues from different departments. It was my first time running a workshop, but we had some really good discussions, and everyone was enthusiastic about sustainability afterwards.

I also really enjoyed working on redesigning our packaging. It gave me a whole new perspective on packaging and the design process behind it – something I never thought much about before. It was also a great opportunity for me to work with the Design Engineers at Keeler who are very smart and inspirational, so working with them was such an honour.

What has been your favourite part of this program? 

I have enjoyed so many aspects of the program. Firstly, the change of scenery that comes with each placement as I have already experienced four different areas of the UK within two years: Essex, Hampshire, Berkshire, and Newcastle for my 1^st module. In all of these places, I’ve met some great people who have really helped me integrate into the UK culture.

I have also enjoyed getting to work with different functions in different industries. Halma companies manufacture technology that makes such a difference in the world. Being part of this process has been very fulfilling for me. I sleep better at night knowing that I work for companies that are not only driven by profit, but are also making a positive impact.

What learnings have you taken from this overall experience so far?

I have learned about how to be more intentional in my career path. The HFL modules, meetings with my HFL program team, and the 1-to-1 sessions I get with my placement managers have been great opportunities for career reflection. I am also getting a lot better at seeking and receiving career feedback.

I have also adopted an agile working style having made an impact in each company within a short time. Each HFL placement lasts six months and during this time you learn about the company, its products and the industry, all while driving your projects and making sure you achieve company objectives.

Has the scheme changed your perception on your chosen career and industry?

Yes, it definitely has. Even though my current field is quite different from what I studied, I feel really fulfilled. I’ve broadened my horizons compared to when I first started in terms of location and industry as Halma has many companies and offices all over the world. Plus, I never even thought about working in sustainability before this program, but now, it’s something I’m seriously considering.

What key memory will you take away from your time working with Keeler?

I will always appreciate how supportive a lot of my colleagues were in helping me run my projects. The people at Keeler are genuinely nice people who are happy to support, redirect and consult with. Teamwork is a major theme at Keeler and there’s no doubt that their support was vital in meeting my project objectives.

Plus, I don’t remember exactly when this happened, but eventually, I was able to walk through Keeler’s offices without getting lost. And that is when I knew that I belonged. So, this is a memory that will stay with me.

Is there anyone at Keeler you’d like to thank in particular?

I’m grateful to so many people as my projects crossed over several departments. I would like to personally thank my Project Manager, Jeremy Whiting, Project Sponsor, Chris McCord, Operations Director, Leon Forest, Karen, Andrew and Lenka in Supply Chain, the R&D team, the Design Engineers, everyone on the shop floor, Marketing, Product Management and the Sales team to name but a few – the full list is endless!

A big shout out to everyone in the Windsor office for always ensuring an endless supply of sugar in form of chocolates, sweets, and cookies. As a sweet tooth, this was a an added bonus!

What advice would you give to anyone looking to take part in the HFL scheme?

For anyone looking to take part in the HFL scheme, I would absolutely advocate this without hesitation. The interview process is great experience in itself, helping to provide further insight into who you are as a person, and the placements broaden your horizon as a professional. From my experience, the program participants are the nicest people to work with and the whole program will set you up for personal and career success.

If you’d like to discover more about Halma’s Future Leaders scheme, please click here