Meet Barney Brooks, Operations Administrator

Barney joined TJ Waste in February as an Operations Administrator and is enjoying learning all about the waste industry. Outside of work Barney is an avid football fan and plays five-a-side once a week. He also enjoys live music, Formula 1 and MotoGP.

What does your role involve?

I manage TJ Waste’s fleet, which involves keeping on top of any defects identified on the vehicles and getting them booked in for repairs in order to keep the fleet safe. I’m responsible for ordering in any parts required for the vehicles, as well as uniform for the drivers. I also schedule tasks for the drivers on a daily basis and undertake data entry to keep the system up-to-date.

What’s your career background?

I joined the RAF as a driver when I was 18, and during my time in service I undertook a wide range of roles. I did three tours – to the Falklands, South California and Qatar – each four months in length. It was extremely interesting and it allowed me to experience different places and learn new things.

I was in a fleet management role in Qatar in 2023 and continued working on the fleet management side for the next two years. This gave me a wealth of very relevant experience including booking vehicles for repair, planning and scheduling jobs, and keeping track of who was and wasn’t entitled to drive certain vehicles.

Those roles inspired me to pursue a similar career in a civilian capacity, and led to me applying for this job at TJ. I had the core skills needed to do the role and I’m now transferring those skills and adapting them by learning about the waste industry and TJ as a company.

What support has TJ provided you with since joining?

I’ve felt very supported by the team here from day one; they do all they can to assist me, even if it’s not really their area. I’m currently learning all the systems and procedures, and getting my head around the different ways of doing things! Everyone is really helpful and always willing to help, which is nice.

What are the most interesting parts of your role?

Learning about all the different types of waste that we handle, how it is processed and what happens to it after it arrives at our Materials Recovery Facilities.

And the most challenging aspects?

Right now, I’d say it’s learning all the different companies that we deal with, such as which companies do which repairs and ensuring that I get the different types of repairs booked in with the correct companies, and in a timely fashion.  

What skills / qualities do you pride yourself on? 

Communication is definitely key for me – in my role, it’s important that everyone understands what’s expected of them and of me. I like to think I’m a sociable and approachable person, and I want all the drivers to be comfortable with me, and happy to tell me about any issues they have so that I can get them resolved quickly and easily.

What are your aims for 2025?

My goal for the year is to become a fully competent member of the team, to keep expanding my knowledge and learn as much about the business and industry as possible.

Why is TJ a great place to work?

The atmosphere here is great; it’s got that family business feel. Everyone has been very welcoming and I’ve felt like a valued member of the team from day one.

Find out more about TJ Waste and discover the services we offer…