Matt Emery

Tell us about yourself

After graduating with a BEng in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Portsmouth in 2004, I started work as a Lighting Design Engineer. As part of my Chartered Engineer development programme, I completed a part-time MSc in Mechanical Engineering in 2010. Two years later I joined TÜV SÜD as a Product Safety Specialist. Since then, I have held four different roles within the Electrical Safety Department and am currently Chief Engineer.

Why did you choose to apply to TÜV SÜD?

The work at TÜV SÜD was much more appealing to me. I was tired of desk work and the testing role appealed to the engineer in me as it gave me the chance to get more hands on and to work with a variety of products and technologies. Plus getting paid to break things is fun!

Where do you work?

I am based at Octagon House, Fareham, Hampshire.

What are your main areas of expertise?

Within the Electrical Safety department, we work with manufacturers to gain regulatory approvals for their products. Our bread and butter is audio visual products for European and North American markets, but we also work with many types of products for use around the world.

What does your role involve? What are your main responsibilities?

As Chief Engineer, I am responsible for the technical work within the department. I make sure the team has the capability and the correct tools. My work also involves ensuring the methods are efficient and state-of-the art so we can continue to work with the latest products and technologies. I am also appointed as a Technical Certifier, so I have the final decision on the release of a certificate.

What most interests you about your role?

Variety. We work with many different customers and therefore have to deal with a great variety of products. Every day is different, with new problems to solve.

What do you find most exciting about your job?

Travel. TÜV SÜD is a global organisation so there is opportunity to work with customers and colleagues all around the world. A highlight for me was having the chance to visit Shanghai, but also visiting the TÜV SÜD global headquarters in Munich, Germany, on multiple occasions has been great.

What is your biggest challenge?

Applying the electrical safety standards to such a variety of products requires an in-depth knowledge of the test specification and the product to ensure the tests are fairly applied and the test data obtained is sufficient to support compliance.

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

Working as part of a great team of people!

How have TÜV SÜD supported you?

I have worked at TÜV SÜD for almost 10 years now, and there is always opportunity to develop and progress. There are many training courses and career development courses provided within the global group and the company always supported my participation in these.

How would you describe your fellow workers in four words?

Always willing to help!

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

Be prepared for a challenge!