Senior Environmental Chemist, David, has adeptly adapted his role at Igne from analytical testing to environmental consultancy.  He brings an exceptional breadth of experience in the geo-environmental space to benefit our clients - who can range from small developers to global multinationals.  And now, despite having faced down more UKAS accreditations than you can shake a stick at, he is steeling himself for the impenetrable glare of the staff spotlight.

We hear you’ve been here a while – how long has it really been?

Well, I joined what was Terra Tek in 2005 – before transitioning to work for the team formerly known as DTS Raeburn in 2023.  Therefore, I’ve been with what is now Igne for almost 20 years.

And in that time your role has changed a lot, is that right?
 
Yes, I am now part of the geo-environmental services team, led by Afam Obinwa, based in Walsall – but prior to that I was part of the chemical testing team.  Nowadays, our team conducts due diligence audits, geological and hydrogeological studies, environmental monitoring, pre-development risk assessment and ground investigations including in relation to coal mining and preparation of relevant interpretive reports.  We also prepare site remediation strategies, undertake verification of remediation and prepare associated certification reports.

Show off!  Tell us more…

My colleagues are a multi-talented group of professionals from different backgrounds including geologists, civil and geotechnical engineers and geo-environmentalists; and now they have me, an environmental chemist!  We all bring different expertise to address our clients' needs.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is the continuous learning and skill development, allowing me to apply my knowledge to deliver effective solutions and recommendations for our clients.

Our work often involves assessing brownfield sites - that means previously developed land that may be contaminated by whatever was undertaken previously.  Before construction can begin, we conduct a number of studies and physical ground investigations to characterise the site's condition.

This process helps determine the level of geo-environmental risk and development constraints posed by the site.  For example, we can assess the pollution levels in soil and groundwater, infiltration characteristics of the soil and drainage feasibility, and identify whether any remediation is required before successful construction can begin.

That’s an incredibly broad service - where do you actually start?

Well, desk studies and preliminary risk assessments (PRA) are an essential first part of our undertakings.  They involve reviewing historical records, maps, and undertaking site walkovers and inspections to identify potential contamination sources for example.

A good example of what can be covered would be as encountered at a recent project site in Ramsgate.  We discovered records indicating the presence of Anglo-Saxon and Roman burial grounds, necessitating an archaeologist's involvement during the trial pitting. 

We also knew there were potential UXO (unexploded ordnance) risks due to the site's proximity to a former airfield used during WWI and WWII.  Additionally, on this site an ecological assessment was required to ensure the protection of wildlife such as lizards and other protected species.

So, as you can tell, planning our investigations carefully is crucial – because you can’t dig over an entire development site.  You must target the right areas based on extensive research to give a full understanding of the site’s suitability for required construction and development.

What do you do if you discover a site is contaminated?

We can develop the remediation strategies and implementation plans, or we might bring in specialists to address specific concerns like UXO for example.  Ultimately, we can take the project to completion and it’s our comprehensive reports, which may include data from other experts, that ensure our clients make informed decisions about their projects.

As one Igne, we often have any additional expertise required in house – from topographical and utility survey teams to materials testing experts and explosive ordnance disposal teams.  This means we’re streamlined in process giving clients valuable cost and time saving efficiencies.

Who inspired you to pursue the career you have today?

My parents.  Through their hard work and dedication in running a small family business distributing car parts to shops, garages and later direct to the consumer, their commitment to making the business successful instilled in me a strong work ethic and a desire to maximise opportunities.

I was involved in the family business from an early age, doing everything from van driving to accounting and customer service.  This all taught me the importance of adaptability, problem-solving, and customer focus, which I carry into my professional career today.

What advice would you give someone who wants to follow in your career footsteps?

In addition to having a strong work ethic, it’s essential to develop a keen interest in your field.  Passion for the subject will motivate you to learn, join professional bodies, and stay engaged with your profession.

Enjoying what you do will naturally lead to professional growth and opportunities.  And never be scared to explore new opportunities; you’re never too old to learn, adapt or even pivot into a new field.

You mention that your role has fundamentally changed at Igne; tell us more…

Transitioning from analytical testing to geo-environmental services was a significant challenge for me.  After 15 years of lab work, where I knew the job inside out, I had to retrain and shift my focus to fieldwork, data interpretation, and client recommendations.

The transition required a new mindset - instead of analysing samples, I now collect them and interpret their broader environmental impact.

However, my previous experience gave me an advantage in understanding analytical results and contextualising findings within the bigger picture.  My background and former role bring significant client benefits and have really added value to the team.

What about a triumph or a career highlight?

Achieving Chartered Chemist (CChem) status and successfully navigating UKAS audits have been significant highlights.  

What is it about UKAS?  We see many colleagues quivering when the acronym is mentioned!

UKAS audits are rigorous, similar to an Ofsted inspection in education, where assessors scrutinise all the work you have done over the past year.

Oh no, that does not sound like fun!

Well, initially, I did find audits were nerve-wracking, but in time I realised every single one is a hugely valuable learning experience.  Consider the auditors as mentors, they share best practices and help everyone they assess improve processes.

Over time, I gained confidence in handling audits and implementing recommendations that enhance services, and this is the advice I’d give all colleagues who still go through the UKAS process.  It is actually a positive opportunity to learn and improve and delight in all the things you’ve done right.

After 20 years, how on earth do you stay motivated?

The team in Walsall is a fantastic group to work with, many of whom I have known for years. We have a friendly and collaborative work environment, with a bit of football rivalry and banter thrown in.  The supportive nature of the team is motivating, knowing that there's always someone available to provide guidance when needed.

And after a long, lonely day on site, you can always rely on the team to back you up if you need any help completing a task – or to act as a sounding board for ideas.

You have achieved so much within your various roles at Igne, but which accomplishments are you most proud of?

Graduating from Nottingham Trent University with a 2:1 Hons degree in Chemistry with Environmental Systems and Monitoring was a proud moment.  My degree included a placement in Orléans, France, where I conducted my dissertation on the phase transitions of synthetic clay.

Being the only English student in the lab was initially daunting, but the experience helped me develop independence and adaptability.  It was my first time traveling alone, and the placement significantly boosted my confidence and technical knowledge.

And how have you grown within your role at Igne?

I’ve had to significantly expand my skills, moving from environmental testing to geo-environmental services!  I’m now aiming to achieve Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) status to further enhance my professional standing.  At every single step of the way I have been supported and encouraged by colleagues – and I’d say that’s just one of the positives that sets this company apart.  The focus on training, support and career growth is exceptional.

So, what does the future hold for Igne?

Igne is experiencing exciting growth; and for us in the geo-environmental space, with our new office in Warrington, led by Graeme Fearn, we’re looking forward to increasing our nationwide presence and reach.

We’re continuously expanding our capabilities, providing high-quality services across the UK, and adding value for our clients through innovation and expertise – and I know the focus is very much on maintaining the momentum of growth and success.

Now tell us something about you that most people don’t know.

During a year of traveling after university, I had a close encounter with a redback spider while working in a bush camp in Western Australia.  One day, on my way to the shower block, I felt something tickling under my T-shirt, only to discover a redback spider.  

Staying calm, I flicked it away, knowing that a sting would have required an air ambulance due to our remote location.

When I returned to my tent, I had a look under the bed next to me, where I hung my towel, only to discover its spider web that I had been sleeping next to for the last few weeks!  When I told the bush camp owner, he said, ‘typical whinging pom, worried about spiders…’ good times!

That is frankly horrific …

I survived.  And my travels literally took me across the world - Thailand, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Los Angeles.  Three friends and I worked in various jobs like fruit picking and even packing golf clubs to fund our adventures.  These experiences taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of stepping outside my comfort zone.

And who are you today?

A former runner of marathons, an ongoing supporter of West Bromwich Albion, and a dedicated dad to two daughters, and partner to Beth.  The kids keep me very busy with their many after school activities.  They are seven and nearly nine, they swim, play netball and go to Brownies.  But perhaps the best thing they do is junior tennis – it’s a dedicated daddy daughter activity with all the dads enjoying a quick pint in the bar while they practice.

It sounds like David has his work life balance well adjusted! 

Stay tuned for more staff spotlight confessions.