FAYE TOMSON: Finalist
Faye Tomson, the founder and owner of Tomson Consulting and District Eating, has been selected as a finalist in the highly esteemed Women-Led Business of the Year category at The British Business Awards 2023.
This prestigious award acknowledges the exceptional accomplishments of female entrepreneurs and business leaders in establishing and nurturing successful ventures. The judging panel has recognised Faye’s company for its remarkable growth, diverse customer base, and her ability to overcome challenges as a business leader over the past two years.
Faye embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in 2016 when she founded Tomson Consulting, driven by her passion for the field and a deep sense of purpose. Her entry into the industry began after she made the decision, at the age of 26, to pursue a foundation course in Renewable Energy Technology at Cornwall College.
Her fascination with the subject led her to receive scholarships for Energy and Environmental Engineering studies at Leeds University, where she excelled and earned a first-class honours degree. This accomplishment opened the doors to a career that commenced with her involvement in biomass fuel production for a renewables company.
From that point forward, Faye’s career soared to new heights. She assumed the role of an energy manager, developed business plans for heat networks, authored decarbonisation plans for housing associations, and spearheaded an insulation program. Her expertise caught the attention of a company in Scotland, which eagerly recruited her.
For five years, Faye thrived as an Energy and Environmental Engineering Consultant, gaining invaluable experience in resource efficiency audits and carbon management plans. Notably, she played a pivotal role in designing a sterling renewable energy project unveiled by Nicola Sturgeon and contributed to the establishment of the Earls Gate EfW plant in Grangemouth. Her involvement in the Edinburgh heat network project also earned widespread recognition for its exemplary nature within the industry.
However, Faye faced increasing challenges as a woman in a male-dominated business, and her situation became even more precarious when she became a single parent at the age of 30. Balancing the demands of her career and childcare seemed insurmountable, and despite seeking part-time positions, she found it impossible to secure suitable employment. Determined to forge her own path, she ventured into becoming a meditation teacher.
Eventually, Faye secured a position with the Heat Networks Delivery Unit, which offered more favorable hours and allowed her to review feasibility studies and contribute to heat network projects while raising her daughter, Daisy. Despite the improved circumstances, the challenges of juggling a fixed schedule and childcare persisted, prompting Faye to take matters into her own hands.
Motivated by the desire to work in a business that prioritised family and personal life without compromising professionalism, Faye founded Tomson Consulting Ltd. This bold step has proven immensely successful, and her business now employs a team of six individuals who thrive in an inclusive and diverse environment. Notably, Faye even welcomed one of her former bosses—an industry expert in carbon management planning and auditing—into her team, as they embraced the fresh approach her business embodied.
Following the establishment of Tomson Consulting as a respected market presence, Faye’s research on heat networks led to the inception of District Eating in 2019. This innovative venture focuses on utilising waste heat for greenhouse food production, showcasing Faye’s commitment to sustainability and resource optimisation.
By managing her time and priorities, Faye has fostered the growth of her businesses by assembling a team of qualified experts who work harmoniously, offering specialised services across various industries, with a particular emphasis on farming, food supply, and supermarkets. Employees enjoy the flexibility to determine their own working hours, ensuring a balance between personal needs and client projects.
“We are a content and dedicated team that defies outdated notions of restrictive employment patterns. Our flexibility not only enhances outcomes but also provides a more effective service to our clients,” shared Faye.
By establishing new standards for running an engineering business, Faye continues to make remarkable strides toward achieving her professional goals. Her next project, which involves extracting warm water from tin mines in Cornwall, has generated excitement within the industry.
“There is an abundance of opportunities to harness energy that would otherwise go to waste. Running my own company enables me to pursue my professional goals on my terms, free from outdated expectations,” affirms Faye.
Faye remains at the forefront of thought leadership and innovation, actively encouraging other women to follow in her footsteps. She believes that personal commitments, such as starting a family, should not hinder anyone’s active participation in the thrilling realm of engineering.
“These are truly exciting times, and there is no reason why having a family or other personal obligations should impede full engagement in this dynamic field,” she asserts.
Delighted to receive recognition for her role as a female business leader, Faye eagerly anticipates further accolades for other accomplished women in similar positions.
“The industry has been in dire need of change, and I am pleased that positive strides are being acknowledged,” she concludes.
