Meet the Retrofit Masters: Say Hello to Mick

At Sero, our people are the heart of our mission to retrofit the right way. Their passion and expertise drive the partnerships we forge and the quality of our delivery. It’s time you met the faces behind our success!

Today, we shine the spotlight on Mick, who leads the operational delivery of our Retrofit Services team. With a background in Military Engineering and over 25 years of experience in delivering construction projects worldwide, Mick runs a tight ship. Since leaving the Royal Engineers, Mick has been at the forefront of retrofit projects both in the UK and Europe, holding roles such as Operations Manager, Projects Manager, and Programmes Manager.

As a previously qualified Retrofit Co-ordinator, Mick leverages his extensive knowledge to ensure that both he and his team deliver PAS-compliant and quality-driven projects. Let’s find out more about Mick…

I’m a retrofit geek when it comes to:

My expertise spans across various aspects of retrofit operations, including project management, resource allocation, and compliance with PAS standards. I thrive on the challenges that come with coordinating multiple teams and stakeholders, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration throughout the project lifecycle.

How does your work impact our customers?

In addition to supporting our landlords in ensuring that retrofits are completed to the highest standards, I am passionate about the tangible improvements that retrofit projects bring to individual homes and their residents. Whether it’s reducing energy bills, creating a warmer living environment, or providing a mould-free, safe space, the positive impact on our customers’ lives is incredibly rewarding. Seeing these transformations firsthand and knowing that our work contributes to a better quality of life for so many people is what drives me every day.

What got you into Retrofit?

My journey into retrofit began with my experience in military construction projects around the world. Seeing the profound impact these projects had on local communities made the transition into civilian life and retrofit work a natural and fulfilling crossover.

What’s your biggest learning about delivering retrofit since joining Sero?

Delivering quality retrofit projects involves unpicking numerous barriers, which can be time-consuming and require significant effort. However, Sero is committed to investing this effort to raise the bar and ensure the highest standards in our work. I take pride in knowing that our efforts contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.

When you share that your work helps save the planet with friends and family, what’s one common misconception people often have?

One common misconception people often have is the belief that individual actions to reduce their carbon footprint are insignificant in the face of global issues. However, when I share more about Sero’s work within homes and the impact it has on both the planet and the people living in them, it becomes clear that everyone has a role to play. Every little effort contributes to a larger positive change.

What’s the one thing that inspires you to come to work every day?

Definitely the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Tell us a bit more about you/life outside of work…

Having recently relocated to a small holding in West Wales, I spend a majority of my time doing my own renovations, looking after an ever-growing menagerie (three dogs, one cat, and a horse). I’m also starting to become self-sufficient by attempting to grow most of what we eat. In my spare time, I enjoy taking in the beautiful scenery of West Wales atop my trusty road bike.

Give us your top tip for the following roles when it comes to retrofitting:

Assessor: Take the time to collect quality information from each home as it sets the tone for the retrofit journey of that home. More is always better, missing information leads to assumption being made or a revisit to the customer’s home.

Designer: Ensure the design packs are complete prior to submitting, as this can really delay a project and be a barrier to getting the installers on site.

Installer: Prioritise customer experience, and make sure you follow the design details to ensure there are no unintended consequences of retrofit.