Name:  Dan Reast

Job title: Depot & Commercial Manager, Wye Valley Metals

Time spent in metal recycling: 5 years

1. What does your job involve?
Working for a successful local family business my role is very varied. My normal day consists of running the Depot and managing customer accounts. Some days I’m out in the yard working the Non-Ferrous scale or loading out material for sale. Other days I may be running the weighbridge (although my

suppliers always complain I’m not as pretty as the normal weighbridge staff!) No two days are the same and I must be adaptable. I may be in my overalls in the morning and in the afternoon in my shirt at a meeting with a supplier. As a manager in scrap metal there is always things to do and get involved with.

2. What is the hardest part of your job?
Keeping everyone happy. It's not always possible, but when you manage staff and suppliers it can be a very thin line where, at times, you need to put the needs of the business first. I also make sure I have happy and productive staff, and ensure suppliers get the attention and service they deserve. A bottle of port at Christmas usually helps too!

3. What three things help you to do your job better?

One is enjoying what I do.  Someone once told me if you don’t enjoy your job then why be there, and it makes sense, When I wake up in the morning I want to go to work and be successful.

Second is having the right team around me, The right people make for a much more productive and efficient day at work. When I am out on the road I need to be confident that my team know what they are doing and that the depot can run without me having to be onsite.

Thirdly, it is having direct access to Directors, which enables me to get decisions made quickly, allowing work to flow without hold ups or delays.

4. What are you most proud of in your career?

I’m proud to be in the position I am in today through hard work and determination. I didn't finish college or take a degree but have made it to a position of responsibility by keeping my head down and doing my best. I’m also proud to be able to operate a 30 tonne scrap handler, boys and their toys as they say!

5. What is the best advice you have ever received?

Don’t trust anyone. It may sound harsh but it is sound advice from a man I have a lot of respect for. Working in this industry I’ve seen many things that have surprised me and you have to keep your wits about you.

6. What one thing would we never guess about you?

I’m allergic to cats!