Name and role: Jack Pierce – project manager.

How long have you been with RVA Group?

Approaching six years.

Describe your career journey before that:

I worked for multi-discipline industrial services companies on petrochemical sites and a Naval dockyard. Before this, I worked as a project engineer for a steeplejack company, working on multiple shutdowns in various countries.

What did you want to be, when you were younger?

I wanted to be a fireman or in the Royal Engineers.

And what do you think is the key skill you need to be a successful project manager?

You need to have an in-depth understanding of the project and the client’s requirements. Also, being approachable and adaptable to ensure the project is completed successfully.

What’s your biggest RVA achievement to date?

The successful completion of my first demolition project on Paraxylene 4 & 5.

And the most memorable thing you’ve learnt during your career?

Treat people with respect and be truthful to your word. 

Describe your dream project:

A project that is planned thoroughly and executed on time, within budget and with no accidents or incidents…. in a warm country.

RVA Group is celebrating 30 years in business, with a truly global reputation for decommissioning excellence. Why do you think the company has earned such a stand-out position in industry?

RVA put safety as their main priority. Over 30 years in business, the knowledge and experience of the people who have worked within the company have helped develop a robust IMS, which aids the project managers in executing projects efficiently. 

Of all the sectors RVA operates in, which is the most exciting right now?

Each sector has its own unique challenges so it’s hard to pick just one.

What’s the biggest piece of advice you could give to an organisation preparing for a decommissioning project?

Take time in the planning of decommissioning activities, know the systems inside out, and use the knowledge and experience of people who have worked on the plant.

What makes you tick outside of work?

My time outside of work is mainly taken up being a taxi driver for my daughter, taking her to and from dance lessons and competitions. For the past three years, I have coached at Middlesbrough Rugby Club with the same team from U15s to U18s and I also enjoy playing golf.

If you could be given a plane ticket for any location, where would you choose?

Maldives.

Which one word would you hope colleagues would use to describe you?

Diligent.