We introduce Operations Assistant David Parkes to help you learn more about his new role at Nant and the wealth of experience he brings to the business.
How long have you worked at Nant? I joined in March 2023.
What are the main responsibilities in your role?
I’ve only recently joined Nant, so at the moment my job is to learn as much as I can about each department and see if I can utilise my skills and experience to improve the way things work. I will be working both in the office and out and about at client sites, carrying out risk assessments and looking at all the processes.
What jobs did you have before you joined Nant?
I’ve been working in the water industry for 10 years and have joined Nant from Dakro Environmental, where I spent six years. I’ve done a bit of everything in the sector. My previous job roles have included administrator, operations manager, contract manager, water hygiene engineer, legionella risk assessor and plumber.
What experience, qualifications or training will you be drawing upon in your new role?
I’ve got experience across the board in the water industry, so I’m hoping to bring that to this position to help improve the business. In terms of qualifications, I’ve got all the usual ones you need to work in the sector, including a legionella risk assessment qualification. I’ve just completed an ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management) course too. I’m a member of the Water Management Society.
What do you enjoy about working at Nant?
Working at Nant has been brilliant so far. Everyone I’ve met has been friendly and helpful, and I’ve had a good laugh with the team. They’re all really knowledgeable about water safety. The business is very innovative and forward-thinking with its use of technology, and I like the idea of improvement through innovation.
What work-related accomplishment in your career to date are you most proud of?
One achievement for me has been gaining an understanding of the HSG274 technical guidance on Legionnaires’ disease and other government guidelines, because this has helped me become a member of the Water Management Society and get to the position I’m in now. I’m also proud of the fact that I’ve been able to travel the world for work. Previously I helped set up an office in Frankfurt, Germany.
What is the best bit of advice you would give somebody starting out at Nant or in the water industry?
Be friendly, be open and be prepared to learn. You never know what this might lead to. I got into the water industry by accident, but the more I learnt about it, the more invested I became in it. It was a whole sector I never knew existed.
What are your interests outside of work?
I enjoy spending time with my wife and dog, and I also like travelling. I’m a keen home brewer and enjoy both brewing and drinking ales.
Tell us something nobody would know about you.
I have a lot of tattoos. Apart from my hands and head, pretty much everything is covered. It’s why I wear long-sleeved shirts!
