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An Exeter woman is celebrating after being recognised for her dedication to the utilities industry, and as a female role model who’s delivering outstanding work in operations within the field.

Exeter’s Louise Alfaresi, a Compliance First Line Manager at Wales & West Utilities, scooped the coveted ‘Hi Vis’ award at Utility Week’s Women in Utilities Awards in London. The awards, now in their second year, are run by the Women's Utilities Network (WUN), in partnership with Utility Week, and are a pioneering tribute to the remarkable achievements of women in the utilities sector, and the organisations and individuals that champion them.

Louise, age 53, has risen within the industry, from starting out as an Administrative Assistant in 1991, to now working as a Compliance First Line Manager, overseeing over 200 gas engineers across the south west of England.

In winning the award, Louise was recognised for her outstanding work in field operations and for championing innovative safety and wellbeing initiatives to support women across the business, as well as supporting and working within the local community. Her tireless work within the field has seen her chair the first Women’s Inclusion Network and advocate for women in ‘STEM’ careers. Whilst she’s also successfully implemented a company-wide Menopause Policy and given a large amount of time to charitable giving and community engagement, making her a true leader and mentor for the next generation. 

Louise was named the winner at a ceremony in London, whilst Wales & West Utilities was also shortlisted in the EDI Initiative of the Year category.

Louise said:

This award means a huge amount to me. Wales & West Utilities has allowed me to combine my role with my passion for charity and community support initiatives.

To be recognised by my peers in the industry is fantastic, and I hope to continue to flourish, whilst encouraging more women to join the industry.

Bethan Jones, Head of People & Engagement at Wales & West Utilities, said:

Louise’s dedication to championing and supporting women in our business, across the energy sector, and in the communities we serve is truly inspiring.

We are incredibly proud of her ongoing dedication, making a positive difference to the working experience of our female workforce and having a real impact for those most in need in the community.

Wales & West Utilities, the gas emergency and pipeline service, brings energy to 7.5m people across the south west of England and Wales. If you smell gas, or suspect the presence of carbon monoxide, call us on 0800 111 999 straight away, and our engineers will be there to help any time of day or night.