The people behind the packaging - Q&A with Dan Waters
The latest from our series of getting to know the people behind the packaging. Here is a Q&A with our Business Development Manager, Dan Waters.
From sweeping floors during school holidays to managing multimillion-pound accounts across Europe, Dan Waters has grown up with Watershed Packaging in his blood.
From sweeping floors during school holidays to managing multimillion-pound accounts across Europe, Dan Waters has grown up with Watershed Packaging in his blood.
Now a Business Development Manager, Dan blends hands-on grit with global ambition, fuelled by a deep respect for the family business and a competitive edge sharpened on the rugby pitch.
We sat down with Dan to talk brand legacy, relationship building, and why sometimes success means literally jumping in the van.
What are some of the most significant achievements or milestones you've reached in your career so far, especially at Watershed Packaging?
Learning the Business from the Ground Up: Dan’s story with Watershed began long before he entered the world of business development.
“I remember coming into work during school holidays at our old Leeds and Beverley sites, back when we had just three printing presses and were focused mainly on labels and printed film. In those early days, I was sweeping floors, emptying bins, filing paperwork, and even spent one half term just packing boxes.
After university, I returned to our new purpose-built HQ in Leeds and got stuck into everything, from gardening and window washing to painting and decorating. That hands-on experience gave me a deep appreciation for the business from the ground up.”
Once I stepped into a sales role, my goal was to help grow our presence in Europe, drawing on my experience studying in Germany.
Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to some significant milestones:
Expanding our international customer base, particularly in Europe.
Helping grow our shrink sleeve and die-cut lidding divisions.
Building long-term relationships with both emerging brands and established players.
Maintaining a hands-on approach, whether that’s delivering urgent customer orders myself or jumping in to support other teams. Something I believe keeps me grounded and connected to every part of the company.
What strategies do you use to build and maintain strong relationships with clients and partners?
For me, building strong client relationships starts with genuine interest and consistency.
We are a family business, and I try to bring that same personal touch into every interaction, whether it’s a first call with a new client or a long-standing customer I’ve worked with for years.
Every customer has different needs, so I take the time to understand what really matters to them, whether that’s faster turnaround times, more sustainable packaging options, or just having someone they can count on. I try to be flexible and will go the extra mile.
“If that means jumping in the van and delivering stock myself to make sure their line keeps running, then so be it! ”
Little things like that stick with people. I check in regularly, making sure customers have enough stock, checking if there are any new designs on the horizon and updating them on our latest developments. People buy from people, and I think just being approachable, honest, and easy to deal with goes a long way.
Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests? How do you spend your free time?
Sport is a huge part of my life. I currently play for the Great Britain Men’s Open Tag Rugby team, and we’re in training mode for the 2026 World Cup in Australia, which is a massive goal we’re all working toward. When I’m not playing, I’m usually watching, especially Leinster and Ireland rugby. I travel both home and away to see them play whenever I can.
I also love playing golf, I currently play off a 5 handicap and try to travel to play some of the world’s best courses. It’s a great way to meet new people and see new places but also a chance to spend time with family outside of work!
Between training, travel, and sport, there’s always something keeping me active and motivated outside of work.
Would you like to work with Dan or learn more about how Watershed can support your packaging needs? please contact us below.