As we celebrate 50 Years of Innovation at Power Adhesives, we are sitting down and talking with some of our brilliant team as part of our People of Power Adhesives Series. You can read our first instalment here.
Second up is Kirsty Butler, Lead Cleaner. Kirsty’s career at Power Adhesives started with a part-time job but her career has flourished. During our chat we discuss her progression and the supportive culture at Power Adhesives.
How did your journey with Power Adhesives begin?
I actually started out in a part-time cleaning role. I was just looking for something flexible at the time, but it didn’t take long before I was offered more responsibility. My managers were happy with how I worked and noticed I had a natural leadership style, probably helped by my previous experience managing a team of six. So, I was promoted to lead cleaner. I enjoy a challenge, so I was more than happy to step up.
What made you choose to stay with the company for so long?
Honestly, it’s the people and the environment. Everyone here is friendly, and it’s close to home, which is a real bonus. I’ve built great relationships across different teams, and the company really does feel family-orientated. There’s a good work/life balance too, which makes a huge difference when you’ve got a family of your own.
How has your role evolved over the years?
It’s grown alongside me, really. I started off just doing cleaning, then became the lead cleaner for a team of three after about three years. I’m now also a first aider, and my responsibilities have expanded to include ordering materials through our ERP system and dealing with suppliers. It’s a great mix, I still have independent tasks, but I also get to work closely with my team and other departments.
How would you describe the company culture in three words?
Friendly. Supportive. People-first.
What’s one innovation or project you’ve worked on that you’re most proud of?
Definitely helping with the switch to more sustainable cleaning products. It wasn’t just a quick swap, we spent about six months trialling different options to find the ones that worked best.
We’ve also introduced a new bin system across the company to improve recycling and separate food waste more effectively. I help monitor how it’s all working, both for my own team and for other departments. It’s great to be involved in something that’s making a positive impact.
How does Power Adhesives stay ahead in the industry?
I think the people-first approach makes a big difference. When you look after your staff, you keep experienced people who know the company inside out. That kind of stability and knowledge base helps the business keep moving forward.
How have you seen technology or processes change since you started?
There’s been a real shift towards being more eco-conscious. Most of the cleaning products we use now are more sustainable, and the business is clearly investing in greener solutions, including in the products it manufactures. It’s nice to see the company making real changes, not just ticking boxes.
What do you enjoy most about working with your team?
We’ve got a great dynamic. Everyone gets along and is always willing to help each other out. It’s a really supportive team, and we all work to our strengths, which keeps things running smoothly.
Are there any mentors or colleagues who’ve made a big impact on your career?
Yes, Chloe Wordsworth, Personnel & Operations Support Manager, has been brilliant. She helped me settle into the lead cleaning role and is always there when I need a bit of advice. She’s great at problem-solving and always quick to respond, which makes a huge difference when you’re trying to get something sorted.
Where do you see Power Adhesives in the next 5–10 years?
I hope it stays true to its people-first values, that’s what makes it such a great place to work. I’m also really looking forward to seeing how the biodegradable adhesives and other sustainable product developments take shape. It feels like we’re heading in the right direction, and I’m excited to be part of it.
Keep your eye out for more People of Power Adhesives blogs in the future as we continue our 50 Years of Innovation celebrations.
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