HR Lead Named Mentor of the Year at Women in Utilities Awards
A Senior Human Resources Manager at Lanes Group has been named Mentor of the Year at the Women in Utilities Awards, which celebrate the contributions of women across the UK’s utilities sector.
Naz Khanom, Head of People for Lanes Group’s Thames Water service contract, received the award at a ceremony held in London on Friday, 27th June.
Lanes Group was nominated in five categories at the awards, which span the water, gas, and electricity industries.
Award judges heard how Naz has proven to be a skilled and committed mentor, “skyrocketing” the wellbeing and capability of one colleague over the past 12 months, while also providing outstanding support to others through informal mentoring.
Her success demonstrates how listening, caring, and offering honest, expert advice can transform the career opportunities of women in the water industry.
Naz has championed the creation of a mentoring programme across Lanes Group and is also an active member of Women at Lanes, a company-wide networking group.
Danielle Le Breton, Human Resources Director at Lanes Group, said:
“Naz richly deserved this award. She naturally goes out of her way to help others and has made a real difference to the lives and careers of those she has mentored over the years—both women and
men.
She sets a great example of the approach we’re encouraging at Lanes Group. I’m also hugely pleased for the individuals and teams who were shortlisted for other Women in Utilities Awards this year.
It shows we have the energy, skills, and desire to make Lanes Group a great place to work for all.”
Naz, who leads a team supporting over 1,000 people, said:
“I’m humbled to receive this award. I’m proud to be part of a team that invests in people development and mentorship.
Our leaders walk the talk, and it’s amazing to see the positive impact this has on our colleagues. The people I’ve mentored have been inspiring—it’s a privilege to support them in any way I can.”
Naz Khanom’s Six Mentoring Principles:
- Set and monitor clear goals.
- Actively listen first.
- Create a safe and caring space for the mentee.
- Be transparent and honest—mentoring only works if mentors are prepared to give potentially tough advice, and mentees are willing to listen.
- Make time and be persistent.
- Offer wider opportunities that help achieve the agreed goals.
The Women in Utilities Awards, organised by Utility Week magazine, recognise the achievements of individuals and organisations supporting and championing women across all areas of the utilities sector.
Women at Lanes was shortlisted for the Women’s Network of the Year Award. Established in 2024, the group supports female colleagues while developing a long-term strategy to create meaningful, sustainable change across the business.
Other Lanes Group finalists included:
Helen Jones, Regional Manager on the Thames Water contract, finalist for the High-Viz Award for field workers, recognised for her outstanding leadership.
James Brewer, Learning and Development Specialist, shortlisted for the Allyship Award for his role in launching Women at Lanes, including workshops, mentoring, and training resources.
The Lanes Menopause Group, one of the first Women at Lanes initiatives, shortlisted for EDI Project of the Year. Its champions are supporting colleagues across the business and developing training and practical assistance to address menopause-related challenges.