30572_Kao Data Critical Careers_Pages - Flipbook - Page 36
Tell me about your career journey and
how it led to your role today
y career journey has de昀椀nitely not been a straight line to
the digital infrastructure industry. I started in the Royal
Air Force, dedicating 23 years as an engineering of昀椀cer
managing maintenance teams for key aircraft like the Hercules and
C-17. This role was crucial for maintaining the UK’s air transport
capabilities and overseeing surveillance operations that kept
strategic assets in prime condition.
M
After my military service, I transitioned into civilian life, taking a
key role as the head of engineering at Gatwick Airport. Here, I
was responsible for the upkeep of extensive infrastructure, from
runways to terminals, translating my skills from military aircraft to
the complexities of civilian airport management.
Dame
Dawn Childs
CEO,
Pure Data Centres
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I then moved to Merlin Entertainments, stepping into the role
of engineering director at a critical time when the company was
overhauling its safety protocols following a signi昀椀cant incident.
My job involved managing maintenance and safety across 130
theme parks in 27 countries, which taught me how to handle crisis
situations and standardise safety processes on a global scale.
From theme parks, I moved to the National Grid, where I focused
on modernising operations within the UK’s essential gas and
electricity infrastructures. This role demanded a strategic approach
and deep engagement in operational ef昀椀ciencies critical to
everyday life.
My most unexpected career move came when I was approached
by Pure to join the data centre industry. I wasn’t a technical person
in the traditional sense, but my extensive experience in large-scale
engineering and infrastructure management made me a perfect
昀椀t. I started by establishing key processes and training teams,
eventually taking over as CEO when the founder departed.
