David Lakeland

David Lakeland

Director of Test Operations

Tell us about yourself

I studied at the University of Portsmouth and my background is electronics. My first job was working at a telecoms company in the R&D team building production line automated test systems. I started out with a hardware focus but gradually moved into the software arena. I’ve worked for several test, inspection and certification companies and joined TÜV SÜD in 2019 where I now lead the Innovation team.

Why did you choose to join TÜV SÜD?

I chose TÜV SÜD because they are a respected company in the industry with many opportunities for learning and growth.

Where do you work?

I work out of our Fareham office in the UK. I work from home 2 or 3 days a week as I live 50 miles from the office.

What are your main areas of expertise?

I would say my expertise lies in building high-performing teams, streamlining complex processes, fostering innovation, and improving efficiencies. I am always on the lookout for new and innovative ways of doing things.

What does your role involve?

My role involves managing a team of software developers and engineers. Our goal is to develop software, hardware, or a combination of both, that drives business efficiencies. My main responsibility is to ensure that the team is equipped to support the business by providing the necessary resources to deliver projects.

What most excites you about your role?

What excites me most about my role is the opportunity to see the tangible results of our efforts and the significant improvements in efficiency that our applications and systems bring.

One highlight for me so far has been the opening of a new testing facility in Fareham, including a number of new semi anechoic chambers and conducted testing laboratories. Innovations implemented automation across the site to make the new chambers and system more efficient. ‘Spectrum’, our in-house designed conducted test system, delivered over 70% efficiency improvement. Additionally, multiple systems enable parallel working delivering even more capacity for testing.

What exciting developments have you seen at TÜV SÜD since you started?

I'm excited about all the work happening in the field of hydrogen. It seems like a fantastic opportunity for cleaner energy, and it's inspiring to see TÜV SÜD involved in the hydrogen space at such an early stage.

What future trends do you see developing in your area of work?

The future trend in my field is focused on machine learning and AI, with ChatGPT being a highly visible example of what AI is capable of. It is an area that holds the potential for significant improvements in the way we work and operate.

What is your biggest challenge?

Currently, the biggest challenge is supply chain issues. From a hardware perspective, we are having to design two or three different variants of systems to cope with long lead times or a shortage of parts. This requires managing various systems with different hardware configurations and costs.

What do you see as the top perk of working for TÜV SÜD?

For me, one of the benefits is the variety of work I get to do. I encounter new challenges daily on different projects across my team.

How have TÜV SÜD supported you?

TÜV SÜD has supported me in my new role by giving me control over how I envision the team to be set up and organised. The trust they have placed in me has enabled me to successfully complete important projects, which is largely due to the teamwork and collaboration within the team and business.

Describe your fellow workers in five words

Dedicated, driven, focused, knowledgeable, passionate.

What advice would you give to anyone thinking of applying for a role similar to yours?

Make sure you like both technology and people. The role can be challenging with its technology aspects, but looking after and supporting your team should be the main focus.

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