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Ice Watch provides a complete range of forecasting, gritting and snow clearing services for a variety of public and private sector clients.
David Spooner Contract Manager
Name: David Spooner
Job title: Contract Manager
Month and year started at Ice Watch/idverde: October 2022
Can you tell me a little bit about yourself and your background?
I went to college and qualified as an electrical engineer, I gained an apprenticeship and worked for an electrical installation company for 5 years. My Stepfather owned a plumbing and heating merchants, and I was persuaded to join the business, learning all aspects of plumbing and heating. I soon became knowledgeable in all these fields and was customer service based to help the trade and public.
At this point I decided I wanted to do something different and went self-employed and started a grounds maintenance company and general handyman for many years. During this time, I was also a special police officer for Suffolk constabulary. Away from work I like to spend time with my family, get out in my Audi for a nice long drive!
What is a typical day like for you in your role at Ice Watch?
I joined idverde in 2022 as Operations Manager. A role I had not done before but with my experience knew I could undertake. A typical day is different between summer and winter – summer is very much speaking to the operators, networking and site visits.
Winter is more hands on, making sure routes are planned out for the operators, helping the operators with their equipment and being the first point of contact for the operations department.
A passion for people and understanding of their background helps with this role, getting to know the subcontractors and their main day-to-day jobs help build a relationship and communication is key. Being open and honest helps, everything run smoothly, where mistakes and problems can be dealt with immediately, but the goal Is to reduce mistakes and solve problems before they occur.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out in your field or pursuing a similar passion?
If you are starting out in this role my advice would be to know your subcontractors and your limitations. If you promise something, do it. If you say something, stick to it. Building the trust and respect of your subcontractors is a two-way street. Working together means smooth running, and don’t be afraid to deliver bad news as I guarantee they would rather know than not know, and don’t ring them first thing in the morning!
Please contact our friendly team today on 0800 232 1994 or contact us here via our website.