A New Direction in a Growing Industry: My Move from Openreach to SSEN
Jamie joined SSE in January 2022 as an Internal Resource Manager, after sixteen years at Openreach. Recently promoted to Resource and Scheduling Manager, Jamie shares his career journey, why he chose SSE, and what the transition has meant for him.
When I joined SSE as an Internal Resource Manager I originally supported a team made up of jointers, gangs, and mates. After two years I was promoted to Resource and Scheduling Manager for the East of the Patch. Today, I lead a team of schedulers, Internal Resource Managers, and frontline colleagues, making sure the right people are in the right place at the right time so we can deliver safely, efficiently, and to a high standard.
Looking back, the journey that brought me here started long before SSE.
I spent 16 years at Openreach, beginning as a copper engineer working on faults and new installations. I later trained on fibre, and then moved into management.
Over the next eight years, I progressed from Operations Manager, leading a team of 19 engineers, to Patch Manager, where I was responsible for 55 engineers and three patch leads. What I enjoyed most was the team culture. I worked alongside some fantastic managers, and together we dealt with the fast pace and constant challenges that came with the job.
But as fibre rolled out rapidly, it became clear that the future demand for copper based work would shrink. I knew that staying where I was would not give me the long term career path I wanted. I wanted a job I could grow into, develop further, and eventually retire from, and I realised that meant looking beyond Openreach.
Why SSE Stood Out
When I began exploring new opportunities, SSE quickly rose to the top of the list. Several things stood out to me:
- The rising demand for electricity as EV chargers, heat pumps, and electrification become essential parts of everyday life
- The stability and long term growth potential of the energy sector
- Strong recommendations from people I trusted who described SSE as a brilliant place to work
- Clear opportunities for career progression
- It felt like a company with a solid future, and one where I could build mine too.
What I Value Most at SSE
The people here make the biggest difference. From day one, it was clear that SSE truly lives its values, especially when it comes to safety. Safety is not a box ticking exercise, it is the foundation for every decision and every job. That culture creates an environment where people look out for each other and take real pride in doing things properly. The teamwork is strong, the communication is open, and there is a genuine commitment to supporting both colleagues and customers.
Bringing My Openreach Experience With Me
A lot of my experience from Openreach transfers directly into the work I do now. Some of the key skills that have helped me settle in quickly include:
- Resource planning and scheduling across large operational teams
- Leadership and people management
- Making informed decisions while under pressure
- Communicating clearly with stakeholders at all levels
- Solving problems in fast paced environments
- Understanding field based challenges and how to support frontline colleagues effectively
- These skills helped me add value from day one and made the transition feel smooth rather than daunting.
Settling In and Finding My Place
Like any change, there was a learning curve with new systems, terminology, and a different type of network. But the fundamentals of planning work, supporting people, and keeping everyone safe remain the same.
What made the transition easier was the support from colleagues. SSE is full of people who are willing to help, and that kind of culture makes a big difference when you are stepping into a new environment.
Would I Recommend SSE to Others from Openreach?
Absolutely. For anyone who wants long term stability, real progression, and a strong team culture, SSE is an excellent fit. The skills you develop at Openreach translate extremely well, and the opportunities within the energy sector are continuing to grow.
For me, moving to SSE was more than a new job. It was the start of a more secure and rewarding future. If you are considering a change, it is definitely worth exploring.
- BT Openreach
