Saranne Postans, Director at C3 Communications, has carved a unique path through the nuclear sector, from fission to fusion and back again. Her career in communications and stakeholder engagement illustrates how varied experiences can lead to impactful roles in the industry, particularly in emerging sectors and new ventures.

Saranne’s career has definitely not been conventional! Panicked into finding a job after university, she started out as a graduate trainee in retail, but soon realised that this path was not the one for her.

Encouraged by her husband, a journalist, she transitioned into public relations, starting out at a consultancy in Southampton. It was here that she discovered her passion for meaningful work, moving from managing high-profile national lottery winners to roles in gas safety and the probation service.

Her entry into the nuclear sector came unexpectedly when she applied for a position at Oldbury Power Station - the first dedicated communications officer employed on site. This role, combined with her personal connection to the industry - her father worked for the Central Electricity Generating Board (CEGB) - sparked her interest and commitment to the nuclear field.

Over the years, Saranne’s career in the nuclear sector evolved significantly. She progressed from communications officer at Oldbury to Head of Communications at Magnox (now Nuclear Restoration Services). After taking voluntary redundancy from Magnox after seven years with the organisation, Saranne trained as an executive coach before joining Horizon Nuclear Power. At Horizon, she played an important role in managing communications for the development of a new power station on Anglesey in North Wales.

When the Horizon project was suspended Saranne joined the UK Atomic Energy Authority’s STEP programme, the first dedicated member of the communications team, working towards the development of a prototype fusion energy power plant. One of the key early projects on STEP was the selection of a site for the plant, which will be the West Burton site in Bassetlaw, North Nottinghamshire. This work enabled her to expand her stakeholder engagement experience, building relationships with the community and stakeholders from across local, regional and national government.

In the last year, Saranne and her co-founder and business partner have launched C3 Communications, a consultancy focused on communications and stakeholder engagement for major infrastructure projects.

Saranne's main current client is Newcleo, a pan-European advanced nuclear technology company. Her role is to support the UK siting process, working with engineers, commercial teams and stakeholders to determine and secure suitable sites for development.

Saranne’s experience reflects a broader trend in the nuclear sector: significant investments in early career opportunities and diverse skill sets. She notes the sector's evolving nature, with increasing investments in graduate schemes and a broader range of roles beyond traditional nuclear physics. The industry's dynamic environment offers numerous opportunities for professionals with diverse backgrounds.

Saranne thinks that one of the most positive things about working in the nuclear sector is the strong sense of community. She has appreciated the supportive networks and the way professionals from various backgrounds come together. Despite challenges, such as the suspension of the Horizon project, she has witnessed many colleagues successfully transition to new roles, demonstrating the sector’s resilient and supportive nature.

For those considering a career in the nuclear sector, Saranne advises diving in and networking extensively. She emphasises the importance of reaching out to industry professionals, leveraging LinkedIn, and utilising university networks.

Saranne believes that there is a place for everyone in nuclear and would encourage anyone to explore how their skills may be transferable and applicable to the sector. She would also encourage people with an interest in joining the industry to engage with local nuclear communities to gain insights and build connections.

Saranne Postans' journey from retail to nuclear showcases the diverse routes to entry to the sector. Her story highlights the importance of adaptability, networking, and finding a role that aligns with personal interests and values.

As the nuclear industry continues to grow and evolve, Saranne's experience demonstrates that you don’t need to be a nuclear physicist to enjoy a fulfilling career in the sector. Anyone with transferable skills can find a place in nuclear.