Interview with Mary-Jane Pettit, CEO of Pioneer FM

Mary-Jane Pettit, founder and CEO of Pioneer FM, shares her experiences, insights, and lessons learned in the cleaning industry. From her early days inspired by family to navigating a business during a pandemic, Mary-Jane offers a mix of wisdom and humour as she reflects on the evolution of cleaning services.

What inspired you to get involved in the cleaning industry?

"I fell into it, really. My mum was a cleaning operative, and I needed to earn money. One thing led to another, and here we are."

How has the cleaning industry changed during your career?

"I remember when we were called cleaners and paid in brown envelopes. I didn’t know what COSHH was or a microfibre cloth! Bleach was the chemical of choice, there was no PPE, and our hands were red raw by the end of a shift. Floors across the UK were beautifully maintained back then—buffing machines were king! Smoking was even allowed on-site, which sounds crazy now.

It was a simpler time. We all socialised before shifts, had a cup of tea and a chat, and there was a strict three-strikes-and-you’re-out rule. If you didn’t show up for work, you were gone. Nowadays, it’s all about innovation, compliance, and efficiency. We’re not in Kansas anymore!"

What trends do you see shaping the future of cleaning services?

"Definitely cobotics and smart buildings. Technology is transforming the way we work, and it’s only going to accelerate."

What’s the most challenging cleaning task your team has ever faced?

"Being the first cleaning company in the UK to deep clean government buildings during COVID. We provided hygiene stewards across the UK for HMRC and mobilised the IBF lorry parks—all while navigating a global pandemic. It was intense but incredibly rewarding."

How do you ensure sustainability in your cleaning operations?

"Sustainability is at the forefront of everything we do. We operate an all-electric fleet, use eco-friendly or chemical-free cleaning methods, rely on battery-operated machines, and provide bamboo uniforms. It’s all part of our commitment to the planet."

What’s the most valuable leadership lesson you’ve learned?

"Stick to your core business and don’t stretch yourself too thin. Focus and consistency are key."

How do you keep your team motivated in such a physically demanding industry?

"Pay the real living wage or above. Recognise hard work and reward it. This job is tough, and people deserve fair compensation and appreciation."

What advice would you give yourself if you could go back in time?

"I’d tell myself to found my company ten years earlier!"

How do you balance innovation and tradition in the cleaning industry?

"Cleaning is one of the oldest professions in the world, and that won’t change. What we can do is use technology to make it more efficient and effective while respecting the roots of the industry."

What’s the strangest thing you’ve cleaned?

"A submarine hatch!"

What’s your go-to cleaning hack for everyday life?

"Vinegar, baking soda (not together!), and lemon. They’re natural, effective, and versatile—I’ve even considered using them on my commercial sites."

What’s one misconception about the cleaning industry you’d like to clear up?

"That it’s easy and that cleaning companies make a fortune. Many clients don’t realise how tight our margins are. After paying the real living wage, covering insurance, equipment, uniforms, and management costs, there’s not much left. It’s not as simple as it looks!"

What’s your favourite part of running a cleaning company?

"The people. Every day is different, and I love the challenges and opportunities that come with this industry."

What’s the most surprising feedback you’ve received from a client?

"Being thanked for actually cleaning their site. It seems basic, but it shows how much expectations matter."

What’s a cleaning myth you’d like to debunk?

"Don’t mix vinegar and baking soda—they cancel each other out and don’t clean effectively together!"

If cleaning were a competitive sport, what category would you dominate in?

"All of them!"

If you weren’t in the cleaning industry, what career path would you choose?

"Maybe a lawyer, surgeon, or even an artist. Whatever it was, I’d have been busy!"