A SEVERN TRENT project manager based in Frankley is making waves in the world of bodybuilding after being crowned Mr Universe in Venice.
Super-dedicated Matt Needham, aged 28, was crowned champion after representing Team GB at WABBA International’s amateur Mr Universe in November 2024.
Matt, said: “It was a really emotional moment when I won, as my parents, brother, sister and my girlfriend Sarah were all there to support me.
“I’d dedicated all of my spare time for that moment, some days I was in the gym for 4.30am before later starting work. I’d be training every day of the week.
“But it was still a surprise to win, as the competition was so tough.”
Matt started out as a graduate at Severn Trent almost seven years ago. He said: “It was the perfect job for me after university where I had taken Business Studies.
“I wanted an exciting and clear career path and the scheme gave me that.”
During his career at Severn Trent, Matt has worked as project manager in bioresources and on plans for a new pure water reservoir in Frankley, Birmingham, where he is currently based.
His hard work saw him promoted to senior project manager last year and he is currently overseeing a number of key investment projects in the region.
Bodybuilding runs in the family as dad Roger used to pump iron and trained Matt and his older brother Ash – who has also won British titles – from their teens.
Years of dedication came to fruition in September last year when he won the British Championships and qualified for Venice.
Matt, from Wombourne, near Wolverhampton, said: “I’m as passionate about my job as I am bodybuilding.
“And you actually need many of the same attributes for the sport as you do for project managing – including hard work, dedication, and teamwork.”
Matt is looking to build on amateur success by training for the professional Mr Olympia circuit in 2026/27 and beyond – but says his workmates are keeping his feet firmly on the ground.
“I’ve had a bit of gentle ribbing about being Mr Universe, but I love that,” he added
