Lee Dando's journey from rig co-ordinator
to SOCOTEC director

From joining as a Rig Co-ordinator in 2017 to becoming Field Operations Director earlier this year, Lee Dando's journey exemplifies how SOCOTEC invests in its people, and gives opportunities for growth, as we found out by exploring Lee’s journey with him…

With over 35 years in the industry, Lee brought substantial experience when he joined SOCOTEC in 2017. Starting at age 17 in the drilling sector, Lee had witnessed the evolution of ground investigation techniques and developed a deep understanding of the technical challenges facing the industry. However, it was his time at SOCOTEC that would truly unlock his potential.

Lee said: “I'm 53 now and have been in the industry since I was 17 years old. It's taken me a while to become a director, but it’s only taken me from eight years to become a director at SOCOTEC. However, you don’t just become a director, that’s where SOCOTEC stepped in and trained me up to be ready for this challenge.”

Lee credits much of his development to his director, Sarah Valentine, who recognised his potential and provided the guidance necessary for his growth: “Sarah is loyal, she's caring,  and ultimately, she's my friend - she's an amazing mentor.

“I’d say that everyone has got the tools in the box, but it's about how we sharpen them as to how much of our potential we can reach - Sarah's focus helped sharpen me.”

This mentorship relationship proved crucial in Lee's transition from operational roles to leadership positions. Under Sarah's guidance, he progressed from rig coordinator to business improvement manager, and ultimately to his current role as Director of Field Operations.

One of Lee's key achievements has been his commitment to collaborative working and breaking down organisational silos. As part of his current position, he oversees a large amount of SOCOTEC’s drilling functions.

This philosophy has driven his approach to utilising SOCOTEC's diverse capabilities across different business units. Lee actively seeks opportunities to incorporate various divisions into projects, maximising value for clients while strengthening internal collaboration.

Lee's position is now also in tandem with implementing a return to regional operations for his teams, split between North and South divisions. Ultimately, the aim is to reduce travel time, improve staff wellbeing and enhance cost-effectiveness across the board.

Lee explains: “Why should we drill past a project to pick up a rig and drive back to it – it doesn’t work strategically. As a result, we place equipment deliberately and carefully to help our teams work efficiently, with our northern and southern operations based in Doncaster and Maidstone, respectively.”

Now overseeing Instu Testing division plus Field Services Team(Drilling division, Bio-remediation and plant), plus managing depot operations and logistics, Lee has built his leadership philosophy around understanding the individual strengths and motivations of his team: “Some people don't want to work for a business, they want to work for their boss. I have tried to create a work culture that is positive, productive and brings benefits to all. Ultimately, my team wants to work for me, and I'm happy with that.”

Lee’s also aware that not everyone seeks advancement in their role: “We need to find people that don't want to push, that don't want more responsibility. It doesn't mean they're useless, they're fantastic in their current area. We need to make those people feel part of our teams, rather than chastising them for not wanting to add more responsibilities to their job role.”

Lee couldn’t be happier with his journey so far: “To become a director in just eight years illustrates SOCOTEC's commitment to recognising and developing talent. The business saw my potential and essentially said to me, ‘If you want to grow, we will support you’, that is a testament to the business, not just me.”

His story serves as inspiration for others within the company, demonstrating that with the right attitude, a strong mentor and organisational support, significant career advancement is not only possible but actively encouraged.

As Lee continues to lead the Ground Investigation division forward, his journey stands as a testament to SOCOTEC's commitment to investing in its people.