Tributes have been paid to Graham Mayes, chief development officer for SUEZ UK, who passed away suddenly last week.
Mr Mayes joined Suez in the early 90s, and had a career spanning nearly 30 years
Described as a devoted family man, Mr Mayes leaves behind his wife Louise and his three children, Max, Tara and Leo.
Raised in Bury, Greater Manchester, Mr Mayes joined Suez in the early 90’s, initially working on public sector bids. His career with SUEZ went on to span nearly three decades and included roles in legal, operations and business development.
A member of the company’s UK executive committee since 2003 Mr Mayes was described as being “instrumental” in shaping the company Suez is today and guiding it through a “transformative period for the waste industry”.
Mr Mayes’ wife Louise has requested that any donations made in Mr Mayes name are given to Macmillan.
A dedicated just giving page has been set up for anyone wishing to make a donation: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/grahammckennamayes
Popular and respected
Mr Mayes was popular and respected among his colleagues
His portfolio included public sector development and he notably led the successful delivery of seven public private partnership waste infrastructure projects that collectively make a significant contribution to the UK’s shift away from landfill, said a statement from Suez.
“A popular and respected figure throughout the organisation, Mr Mayes’ knowledge and expertise was often sought out by colleagues throughout the business.
He was a trusted mentor and source of support and guidance to many, helping colleagues develop their careers in SUEZ and the wider sector.”
Lifelong friend
Colleague and lifelong friend John Scanlon, chief executive officer for SUEZ recycling and recovery UK said: “I was lucky enough to know Graham for 40 years, growing up together in Manchester and then learning about the waste industry together as our careers developed within the SUEZ family.
“Graham had an amazing intellect and a real thirst to learn new skills and take on board new knowledge. Apart from all the laughter we shared, my enduring memory will be how much he loved to help others, he would willingly give up his time to help anybody in the company, whether professionally or personally, and regardless of their role in the organisation. He will leave a huge gap that will never be filled, inside or outside of SUEZ.”
‘Real privilege’
David Palmer Jones, SUEZ group senior vice president for Northern Europe and Industrial Services said: ‘It was my real privilege to work with Graham during his whole 27 years with SUEZ. I knew Graham as a consummate professional with a huge intellect and knowledge of our industry. He played a central role in the transformation of the UK business over the past eighteen years as part of the management team and his contribution to the development of SUEZ in the UK will always be immeasurable.
“For all those who were fortunate to work with him they benefitted from his genuine care for people and the time he invested in developing their careers. I will of course miss Graham as a close, trusted colleague, but much more his friendship and humour.’
‘Warm and open hearted’
Bill Swan, managing director for BPR Group and former colleague of Graham’s in his early years at SUEZ said: “I met Graham 25 years ago in SUEZ’s then head office over a shoe shop on Egham High Street. Instantly warm and open hearted, it was a real pleasure to work with him.
“Always quick with an amusing story, Graham brought humour and laughter to any occasion. On the ski slopes more speed than style, in the ski bars generous with the drinks and conversation. A loyal friend to me and to so many others, he will be sorely missed.”
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Source: letsrecycle.com Waste Managment
