What qualifications do you have?
BSc (Hons) Zoology.
How did you get into ecology/environmental work?
Growing up in a rural area, I spent the majority of my time outside, exploring the local fields, streams and woodlands. That interest in the outdoors inspired a strong connection with the natural environment, which drove my educational and early career choices.
I studied Zoology at the University of Bristol, and spent time as a research assistant working on aquatic habitats. Leaving University, I wanted to pursue an environmental career, and was fortunate to secure a place at Thomson as a field surveyor and then on the graduate training scheme to become an Ecologist. I latterly became the Technical Manager at Thomson, managing sales activity for the business.
I moved over to work as a National Director in a more policy-oriented role in the rural sector, before returning to Thomson after 11 years as the Director of Business Development.
When did you join Thomson EC?
Originally in May 2007 and then again in November 2022
How many years of relevant industry experience do you have?
18.
Can you describe your position at Thomson EC? What does a typical day look like?
My role covers the pre-contract side of Thomson’s business, alongside my team we cover marketing, business development, sales estimating, bid preparation and contract / commercial due diligence. The role is really varied, so a typical day can be anything from development of marketing plans, liaising with clients about upcoming project needs to reviewing contracts or doing project handovers to our operational teams. The work is diverse, spanning our terrestrial and water ecology team, marine lab, arboricultural consultancy, GIS consultancy and habitats contracting business which means there are always opportunities to learn and develop.
Are there any relevant subject matters you are passionate about?
Customer service! We are here to offer clients a right first-time solution. My team and the wider business are very client focussed. Whether that is supporting clients to define a scope of works for an upcoming scheme or ensuring that commissioned projects are delivered on time, on budget and to a high quality standard, we focus on helping clients achieve their business goals in a pragmatic manner.
What is your proudest achievement/career highlight at Thomson?
There is a huge sense of achievement when my team and the wider technical teams come together to develop a bid for a major project which we then secure. It’s a real demonstration of the ‘One Thomson’ ethos.
Do you have any hobbies and interests outside work?
Being outside! It doesn’t really matter what I’m doing. Outside of work I can generally be found walking my dogs.
Why should individuals/organisations choose to work with Thomson EC?
The values. Respect, Integrity, Support, Excellence. For many organisations, values can be words written in a staff handbook or on the wall in a meeting room. At Thomson colleagues live the values, and so the culture and feel of the organisation is strong. I often describe to people that when I returned after 11 years away from the business, it still felt very much the same as when I left.
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