Name:
Max Parr-Daniels
Job Title:
Project Development Director
Places you’ve worked before:
Prior to joining IDCSL I had a 16 year career within SSE Energy Solutions. Starting in 2008 as an Apprentice Heating Engineer before kicking off my journey within the Utilities industry in Project Management, then Business Development and most recently Project Development roles.
What attracted you to the industry?
After completing my Apprenticeship I had the opportunity to train as an Assistant Project Leader, this was my first role within the Utilities industry and was spent managing the delivery of gas, water and electricity networks within the residential new connections market.
It became clear early on that this industry offered a long-term career, where skills from Project Management were transferable, not just to wider industry roles but also across different technologies and I haven’t looked back since.
What do you enjoy most about your profession?
As a solutions built business I get to work collaboratively with our customers to develop outcomes that align with their requirements. I’m therefore always learning, building strong relationships and there to see projects progress.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I played a lot of tennis growing up and often thought about becoming a tennis coach. I also loved the idea of property development which led me down the Apprenticeship route.
If you could travel back in time and give your younger self career advice, what would it be?
Early on in your career it’s ok to not have everything figured out, take opportunities as they come to you but also create opportunities by networking and not just with those immediately around you. Spend time understanding the challenges people face in their roles and how you might respond to those and most importantly apply yourself consistently.
What’s your biggest career highlight to date?
Each phase of my career has presented different highlights; from learning a skill for life as an Apprentice, to seeing new homes connected as a Project Manager. Within Business Development, each new contract signed in was always exciting and more recently developing complex infrastructure solutions taught me so much across regulatory, cost and programme environments. Now, joining a new IDNO with a talented team and the opportunity to build the business is definitely a highlight of my career to date.
What’s the most valuable thing that gets you through your working day?
People. Success always comes through the collective efforts of the people you work alongside. This is true of colleagues and customers.
Or is it snacks?