#N4L: David S Says…

-part of the N4L Series; celebrating Learning at Work Week-

It’s my great pleasure to introduce David Smith…

About David

I am a Technical Director with an international multidisciplinary consultancy.  I have over 25 years’ experience of research and consultancy supporting sustainable resource and environmental management.

What networked for learning means to me

Throughout our lives we all build networks of friends and like-minded people who help recognize and validate our actions, including professional networks of colleagues we know and trust.  Throughout my career I’ve been lucky enough to have had several ‘mentors’ who’s wisdom through both words and actions has stuck with me long after I’ve left university and my first job.

I frequently didn’t fully recognize (or acknowledge) their basic decency, generosity of spirit and ability at the time.  With the benefit of a twenty five year career in environmental consultancy, I now do.

Whilst it’s important to do something you enjoy and find rewarding, I’ve always been most successful when I’m working with people I like and trust.  It’s easier to work well as a team when you recognize each others’ strengths and can make the most of them.

My personal learning insights

My role at work is to devise, manage, deliver and audit a wide range of projects, undertaking research, producing guidance, solutions and advice for clients.  Doing something that motivates you is critical to long term career ‘success’.  You’re never going to realise your potential if you’re not personally interested in what you do.

The sustainability sector continues to develop rapidly, as a result there is always something new to learn and apply – which keeps the work interesting and rewarding.