Ground Control’s Branching Out Podcast

In this episode, David Rees-Jones, Commercial Director in maintenance, reflects on how a two-person team grew into a broad function supporting estimating, mobilisation, recruitment, compliance and professional services.
He explains how commercial thinking, operational expertise, data and AI are shaping smarter decisions. We also take a look at industry challenges, from rising customer expectations to market pressures, and why adaptability matters for long-term success.
A useful listen if you’re interested in how innovation and collaboration are helping shape the future of the business.

This episode features Rob Miller from the Energy Division, sharing his journey through nearly nine years at Ground Control and how a growing interest in sustainable solutions led him from grounds maintenance into the world of EV charging, solar, and emerging energy projects.
Rob talks about how the Energy Division has evolved, the opportunities created by the transition to cleaner energy, and why sustainable infrastructure is becoming increasingly important for clients and communities alike.
If you’re curious about sustainable energy, career growth, or what progression can look like at Ground Control, this episode is worth a listen. Rob shares honest reflections and practical advice for anyone looking to grow their career or find their next challenge.

In this episode of Branching Out Podcast Recording, we chat with Nathan Cleaver, a Rail Site Manager in our Infrastructure division, about what life is really like in rail vegetation management. Nathan gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the planning, teamwork and problem-solving that go into keeping railway work safe and running smoothly, from preparing work packs to adapting when weather or site conditions change.
He shares his career journey, the relationships he has built with teams and clients, and how learning through the GC Academy and recent IOSH Managing Safely qualification has helped him grow in his role. It is a positive, practical conversation full of useful insight, including Nathan’s advice on learning from others and why taking a moment to “Take 5” can make a real difference, both at work and beyond.
 

In this episode, Chris, our HSQE Director, shares how Ground Control’s HSQE approach helps keep people safe, meet client and legal standards, and build a stronger everyday safety culture across the business. Chris highlights practical takeaways on planning well, speaking up, simplifying processes, and taking ownership of quality, safety, and development in your role. Whether you work in operations, leadership, or support, this conversation shows how the right behaviours and culture make a real difference to people, performance, and client trust.

In this episode of the Branching Out Podcast, we speak with Sophie Sturgeon, one of our Landscape Architects, also a Pro Landscaper 30 Under 30 2025 winner and RHS Young Designer 2026!Sophie shares what goes on behind the scenes in the Design Team – from concept design and collaboration to creating outdoor spaces that genuinely benefit people and nature. She talks openly about confidence, learning by doing, and putting yourself forward, as well as her journey to national recognition and a preview of her RHS garden “A Space for Her”, which will be built and showcased at the Badminton Estate this summer. Learn more about here: https://www.ground-control.co.uk/insights/news/ground-control-designer-to-showcase-at-the-rhs-badminton-flower-show/
An inspiring listen for anyone interested in design, development, wellbeing and career growth!

This episode features Nicki Banyard, Business Support Manager for Rail, Utilities & Infrastructure at Ground Control, sharing her career journey from temp to team leader. We discuss what her role involves, address myths about “back office” teams, and show how great internal service drives successful projects. Nicki talks about the value of mentoring, the GC Academy, and the importance of people development, ending with key lessons learned about supporting each other and making a positive impact.

In this episode, we catch up with Charlotte Cantwell to hear more about how she works with the landscape construction team to deliver projects across the UK. We discuss the importance of being open to learning new things and to always stay curious, never shying away from asking questions. We also hear about her experience in GC Grow and pick and mix GC Manage courses, which are a part of our GC Academy. 

Ground Control’s teams are using technology to modernise grounds maintenance. In this episode, Patrick Croskerry and Alex Clark discuss moving from manual processes to data-driven decision making, boosting service delivery nationwide. They discuss how we are using Hubscape, to improve scheduling, capacity management, and client transparency with teams. They highlight how accurate reporting enhances safety and compliance while supporting teams. They share some great practical advice for career growth and learning in the industry.