Emily Bussey from Bristol takes top spot in Environmental Sector’s Young Talent Awards
The Awards programme recognises rising stars from across the environmental sector who demonstrate professional excellence, drive innovation or make a positive impact within their organisations and communities. From an initial 11 shortlisted colleagues from SUEZ, 8 were named winners on the day, with 2 being named within the top 3 for their exceptional contributions, leadership qualities and commitment to advancing sustainability and resource management.
Emily, who was new to the industry when she joined SUEZ in January 2025, was recognised for her contributions in supporting people from disadvantaged background into the sector. Her passion stems from an early career in recruitment formatting CVs and a genuine desire to support people who face barriers that have nothing to do with their ability, work ethic or potential. As Emily advanced in her career in high level technical recruitment, she utilised her knowledge during volunteer sessions at a local youth centre and began to embed her passion to support young people and care leavers into employment within her own work.
Within 18 months at SUEZ, Emily has led projects supporting young women in the care system in the South West into employment, and scaled a programme hiring offenders Released on Temporary Licence (ROTL) from 8 to 29 placements, including 10 candidates into one site in the first year alone. In 2025, she supported a total of 128 individuals with CV writing, coaching and structured guidance, alongside 126 placements into key operational and leadership roles. And her ambition doesn’t stop here, with her future goals focused on scaling projects to reach more people and make an even bigger impact!
Accepting her award, Emily said: “It’s a huge honour to be recognised by the industry for doing a job I feel really passionate about. Our sector offers exciting career opportunities with meaningful work and pathways to develop, and I’m thrilled to be able to use my skillset to create a genuine positive impact at a grass roots level within communities. I wholeheartedly believe that employers have a responsibility to society to offer entry level roles which are truly accessible.”
Dr Tracey Leghorn, Chief Business Services Officer for SUEZ in the UK, said: "Emily embodies the values that underpin SUEZ's approach to people and inclusion. Her passion and determination to support everyone to succeed has already made a meaningful difference to hundreds of people and I am incredibly proud to see her recognised as one of the environmental sector's brightest young professionals."