Transformative Strategy Delivers Impact with Veolia

Veolia was facing multiple industry challenges, including the increasing volume of recycling and waste generated by urban populations; handling increasingly complex and diverse waste streams; addressing persistent workforce skills shortages and adapting to evolving sustainability regulations and targets.  

A critical challenge was the intense cross-industry competition for skilled workers, especially HGV drivers who are essential to Veolia's operations. 

This situation was particularly concerning given the demographic trends in the UK’s HGV labour category, where more than 50% of drivers were aged over 50. An impending succession crisis is coming, as this workforce approaches retirement age. 

To limit the HGV skills shortage, a strong focus was put on transitioning HGV contingent workers into permanent positions. This was successful, with 40% of all temp to perm conversions in an HGV driver role. As a result, there was a significant reduction in the need for contingent drivers.  

As an innovative industry leader, Veolia requires not only conventional expertise but also emerging competencies, particularly in sustainability-focused areas. There is significant demand for future-orientated 'green skills,' including expertise in niche areas such as renewable energy technologies, environmental management systems, carbon footprint analysis and more. This reflects the company's commitment to leading in environmental sustainability and adaptation to evolving industry needs. 

As the UK leader in resource management, Veolia provides a comprehensive range of waste, water and energy management services designed to build the circular economy and protect the environment. These are all extremely dynamic areas, and we need to be able to keep pace with initiatives that are continually evolving in scope and have agile sustainability targets.