We’re delighted to announce that Rachel Davies, Senior Project Manager within the reservoirs team, has been elected as Chair of the British Dam Society.
Rachel, who joined Binnies in June 2022, has been an active participant in the British Dam Society for nearly 10 years, firstly by sitting as a member on the main committee, then most recently as the Vice Chair. She has also led the subcommittee for the past two Biennial British Dam Society Conferences.
Rachel has spent close to a decade specialising in the field of dams and reservoirs, experiencing the role of a reservoir undertaker, with a significant portfolio of reservoirs of all ages and types, as well as more latterly as a consultant working with multiple clients who own, operate and maintain a variety of dams and reservoirs.
“I believe that, based on my career experiences to date, I will bring a different perspective and appreciation of our industry to the role of Chair. Historically, I have been involved in the day-to-day operation and capital investment of the dams owned and operated by a large national water company, which has enabled me to understand the responsibilities, justifications and consequences of the reservoir legislation that we must enact. Currently, working for Binnies, I can now understand and appreciate the challenges that a variety of clients and undertakers have in our ever-changing global industry.
“My career to date has primarily been served within the water industry and, with this in mind, I believe that I possess a holistic view of the water cycle from source to tap, which again will bring a different viewpoint for many others in our industry to draw upon. I have worked from the perspectives of both the client and the consultant or contractor and therefore feel that my awareness of both will enable me to appreciate and assess the potential changes that our industry may be required to embed, be they environmental, legislative or otherwise, going forward.
“Our industry and the environment that we live in are going through a period of change and transformation, with an ever-increasing focus on sustainability and preservation; however, together as a society, we can embrace these challenges with a positive mindset and a willingness to ensure that any changes required to be made work effectively for all involved.
“As a society, it is clear to see the increase in young professionals becoming members, with a willingness for events to be organised and run and an eagerness to learn from their superiors. These proactive steps help to promote networking and knowledge dissemination across all levels of career and experience. This is a real positive step for our industry, and a focus of mine over the next two years’ tenure as Chair will be to make sure that this proactiveness continues and ultimately as a society we enable and support all professionals in reaching their potential, at whichever point they may be in their careers.
“During my time serving on the committee to date, I have worked alongside four previous Chairs, who have all guided the society in different ways. I am fortunate to have been able to work with and learn from them all and will use these experiences to continue to evolve the society and lead it into the future.
“I very much look forward to the next two years serving as Chair of this prestigious society.”