Meet the Team – Project Manager

In the second of our meet the team series, we are chatting to one of our Project Managers – Chris Lyttle

How long have you worked with Alternative Heat?

I have now been with Alternative Heat for four and a half years. I started in 2019 as an Electrical Construction Manager and was promoted to Project Manger two and half years ago.

What qualifications do you have?

I’m a fully qualified, time served, electrician by trade – but have gained extensive experience in various construction disciplines throughout the years, including MEP and civils. This experience has helped me to progress my career, as I have a strong understanding of the delivery aspects of project at construction level.

Tell me about a typical week?

When working in operations I always say you need to leave time to be reactive – plan to deal with the unexpected!

As a Project Manager there are so many moving parts. I work exclusively on our Decarbonisation Sector projects and am involved from early-stage feasibility right through to project completion. Therefore, on a weekly basis I can be found doing anything from working with the estimating team compiling tender packs, reviewing tender returns, awarding sub-contractors and reviewing budgets right through to project handovers to my own team to ensure the accurate delivery of the job. I work closely with many departments in the business through the various stages and really enjoy the collaborative aspect of the role. I also spend time every week with clients – this can average 1-2 days per week and I can be anywhere in the UK or Scotland, where we are running multiple projects.

What is the best thing about your job?

I love working within Decarbonisation – to work on a sector so new to the market is great to be part of. We are at the forefront of our industry and I get a real buzz from this. With regards to the company, the staff dynamic here at Alternative Heat is second to none. There is a healthy mix of a relaxed atmosphere with lots of craic, but the work always gets done to the highest standards. I am really trusted in my ability to do my job – I’m not micromanaged but there is always support when I need it.

Every department here is interlocked and there is a genuine appreciation for the different departments and roles people have.

What is the most interesting project you have worked on?

I am currently delivering a 24 month project in the Midlands as Principal Contractor. Our scope covers a wide umbrella of elements within Decarbonisation delivery from ASHP installation, district heating networks and building fabric upgrades. It is a great project seeing all the design elements coming together with the assistance of my dedicated team.

Why should anyone consider a career with Alternative Heat?

Alternative Heat is a company going places – with over £40 million turnover and a clear vision for the future it is an exciting place to be – there are so many opportunities. I am one of many people who have had internal promotions. It can be intense – the company is growing at such a rate – but there is a great support network and a relaxed atmosphere. As any Project Manager knows, travel is a part of the job but what I really like at Alternative Heat is that you can work the travel around your own lifestyle. We trust our people to be on site when they need to be on site. Finally, our facilities are second to none – from our fabrication sites to our offices and canteen – you will struggle to find better facilities to work in!