Meet the people behind DE&S

Project Controller, Andrew

Why did you choose to pursue a career in DE&S?

I studied Mathematics at university and always been interested in Mathematical Modelling and how it can be used to solve real-world problems and inform decision making. When the opportunity to join the DE&S Cost Analysis and Assurance (CAAS) team arose I jumped at the opportunity to develop my skills in Cost and Schedule modelling, Cost and Schedule Risk Analysis and using Monte Carlo Simulation to inform decision making.

The opportunity to work on a variety of large complex defence projects was intriguing and very appealing.

What does being a Project Controller at DE&S entail?

I’m currently responsible for the management and facilitation of training courses and material to enable the DE&S functions to operate the P3M tool suite as it has been designed and configured to meet the organisation’s needs.

This role involves consulting with multiple stakeholders from DE&S training cells involved in Project Controls, Project Management and the Domain Technical Coaches to develop training and course materials.

Additionally, my role involves identifying and liaising with training establishments, providing funding for P3M training courses and developing new training materials with our external training provider.

What’s the greatest achievement in your role to date?

My greatest achievement to date, is being invited to be a member of a three-year NATO collaboration looking at Risk Analysis of Acquisition Programs best practice.

The study involved developing a collective understanding of risk and related analytical approaches, and identifying the best techniques for conducting Schedule, Cost and Integrated Risk Analysis.

I led the UK input to the study for the Schedule Risk Analysis and Cost-Schedule-Integration techniques. The guidebook was pre-released on the NATO SAS website in September 2017, and is awaiting final review by the editors. The SAS Panel awarded NATO SAS-109 as the best study for the autumn 2017 Panel Business Meeting.

Why would you recommend DE&S to others as a great place to work?

The people in DE&S is what makes it a great place to work.

In my 7 years, I have met some truly inspirational people who are very interesting and knowledgeable. I’m always intrigued by the diverse experiences of my colleagues and the wealth of project knowledge. Everyone brings their own perspective to DE&S projects which brings a unique richness to project delivery.

I believe that the DE&S Transformation journey that we are on will result in clearer, improved process and systems for these great people to develop and exploit their skills in the future.

What are the social benefits of working for DE&S?

I’ve always been a keen sportsman and I can’t speak highly enough of the sporting facilities on offer at DE&S. From the gym and classes, to the indoor sports hall and outdoor tennis courts which are all available to colleagues for a small monthly fee.

I have personally made use of the CSSC subsidises and reduced prices available to partake in events such as Triathlons and Tough Mudder events which is a fantastic benefit. Additionally, the annual DSRA Sports Day at Bath University is always a great opportunity to meet and socialise with new people from different teams.

The flexible working arrangements available are a massive benefit of working for DE&S. It allows us to flex our working patterns around the demands for the assigned role.