Meet the Manager: Luke Parsons
17 July 2023
Introducing Luke Parsons, Service Manager at Summit Systems, and our second manager to feature within our ‘Meet the Manager’ series. With a wealth of experience as a field service engineer, Luke's journey has led him to his current role, where he spearheads the service department with passion and determination. Get to know Luke, the driving force behind the success of the service department at Summit Systems.
Could you share your previous experience leading up to your current role as Service Manager at Summit Systems?
Prior to taking the role, I was actually working here at Summit as a Field service engineer. I have worked in field service for numerous years now and engineering all my working life. It’s been a rewarding but challenging path that’s lead me to where I am today.
How have you developed and improved your department since taking on the role of manager?
Ah, the joys of being a manager! Since taking the reins, I’ve been determined to make positive changes. I have focused on improving communication and visibility within the department, in addition to driving the continuous process improvement. The whole team now sees the vision of where we would like to be and is completely behind it.
What specific strategies or initiatives have you implemented to enhance the performance and efficiency of your department?
I’ve implemented a game-changing, custom-built scheduling software that’s revolutionised how our engineers operate. It gives the engineers full visibility of work, while also granting them instant access to any technical information they require.
Can you highlight any major challenges you have faced in your role as manager and how you overcame them?
The biggest challenge was learning how to adjust from being an engineer fully focusing on the job at hand, to having to look after a team of engineers. I really struggled with this at first but feel that a change of mindset has allowed me to better focus on improving the department and supporting my amazing team.
How do you foster a positive and collaborative work culture within your department?
Coming from being a field-based engineer, I can understand the pressures and demands that our team faces out on the road. That’s why I make it my mission to foster a positive and collaborative work culture. I'm all about supporting my colleagues and doing whatever it takes to improve the department. From lending a helping hand to boosting morale, I believe in creating an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to give their best.
What do you envision for the future of your department and how do you plan to achieve those goals?
I want to see the team grow and begin to support new technologies. With the rapid advancements in technology within our industry, it’s imperative that we keep up and stay one step ahead. I want us to be at the forefront of innovation and excellence, continually raising the bar and pushing boundaries.
Lastly, how do you see the future of Summit Systems as a whole, and what role does your department play in its overall success and growth?
I see Summit as the industry leader and only growing in the products we can offer. I believe the service department plays a major role in this, being at the forefront of customer service and excellence we will strive to always offer the best possible solution. We're ready to take Summit Systems to new heights, and I couldn't be more excited to be a part of it all! It’s been an interesting first year in the position and I can’t wait to see what the future brings!