Emerging Leader Programme: Get Acquainted with Connor Mackenzie, Cost Controller

Designed for ambitious professionals aspiring to be in a leadership role, our blended learning 12-month Emerging Leader programme encourages participants to think beyond the confines of their current roles and areas of responsibility, broadening their horizons to embrace the mindset of a future leader.

Throughout the duration of the programme, we are delighted to provide you with the opportunity to get to know the individuals who are participating. So, without any further delay, it is our pleasure to introduce Connor Mackenzie!

Tell us about you… what’s your work history to date?

After joining the group at the age of 18 in 2013 as a labourer, I have had the opportunity to develop and gain experience in various roles, such as Technical Clerk, Document Controller, Project Coordinator, as well as my current commercial role as a Cost Controller. The opportunity to develop skills in these diverse positions has served me well and has helped me gain knowledge from various facets of the company. Additionally, I had the opportunity to work for SSE as a Project Coordinator in 2017/18, which provided me with fascinating insights and a great learning experience.

Who or what inspired you to peruse the career you have today?

I have always lived in the area and grew up hearing about the Port of Nigg in the 70s and how busy it was. When Global Energy Group purchased Nigg in 2011, I was at the age where I needed to start looking at what career path I wanted to pursue. I recognised that there would be numerous opportunities at Nigg and the surrounding areas, and I believed that in the long term, it would be beneficial for me.

The role I am currently in was not something I had planned to do. It came about as I worked alongside cost controllers and commercial managers, assisting them on projects, and I naturally evolved into the role. I am keen to continue learning and utilising my skills, with the hope of growing into a General Manager role in the future.

Can you provide details of a professional accomplishment in the group that you are proud of?

Getting put forward by my Manager, Graham Holloway, for the Emerging Leader course. A few years ago, if I had been asked to do this, I probably would have shied away. However, after speaking with my manager before the course began, he made me aware of the difference in me since I started—how I have taken on more responsibility and matured. Now, I am responsible for managing the costs for various scaffolding, rope access, and quayside services jobs, which can generate turnovers of up to £5m per year.

What inspires you, and do you have any personal goals that you are hoping to achieve?

The workplace environment has a significant impact on my motivation while at work. I thrive when I am part of a positive, upbeat, and supportive environment that puts me in the right mindset to succeed.

I am determined to keep improving and developing within my current role, with the hope of eventually progressing into a commercial lead position. This course and what I have learned from it will undoubtedly contribute to achieving my goals.

What motivates and energises you at work?

Being busy boosts my motivation and energy levels. As part of a small team, the sense of purpose and urgency drives me to be more productive, and the constant flow of tasks keeps me engaged and excited about my work. Additionally, the collaborative atmosphere and opportunity for growth make it even more fulfilling.

Graham Holloway, General Manager, Global Energy Services, commented: “Having worked with Connor over a number of years and seeing him transition through a number of roles I was delighted to nominate him for inclusion in the 2023 Emerging Leader programme. Connor already displays fantastic leadership and management qualities and I believe this course will further support him on the next phase of his development. Having seen the progression and positive steps made by the 2022 emerging leaders’ participants it was a simple decision for me to support Connors inclusion this year. I would like to extend my best wishes to all this year’s participants and urge them all to enjoy the journey.”