Meet the new people at ECOE: David Thompson

The last few months have seen quite a lot of comings and goings at ECOE. We’re gradually introducing the new faces to you so that you don’t wonder who they are when you meet them. Next up is David Thompson, who joined as a director in June 2018. He’ll be at our AGM on June 6. It starts at 6:30pm at Stephens Scown in Exeter – join us! 

What’s your role at ECOE? 

I’m the company secretary. That means I get to do all the dull stuff like preparing agendas and writing up meeting minutes. The consolation is that I know this releases time for directors with specialist technical knowledge to focus on ECOE’s important activities.

What’s your background?

I trained as a biochemist then spent several years teaching in a sixth form college. Following a mid-life career change, I became a management consultant developing skills including project management, business case development, stakeholder management, data and options analysis and the preparation of proposals, presentations and reports.

What motivated you to join ECOE?

I have always been interested in environmental and energy issues and was one of the first volunteers at the Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynlleth. I have investments in various renewable energy and social enterprises including Bristol Energy Cooperative and Dart Renewables. On recently relocating to Exeter, I took the opportunity to become more actively involved in renewables by joining ECOE.

What should members and supporters talk to you about if they bump into you? 

I’m a member of the Ramblers and a keen walker, which was part of my motivation for moving to Devon. I attend the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concerts when they play at the University and I volunteer at the Budleigh Music Festival. So I’m happy to chat about anything to do with outdoor activities or classical music.