We caught up with Nick Drake who joined us as Business Development Manager earlier this year.

He tells us about his reasons for joining Weston Analytics, his upcoming priorities and his vision for expansion – and invites us for a canal run from The Dock!

Nick’s career journey and current role

Q. Can you tell us about your professional journey and your role at Weston Analytics?

A. My career has consistently centred on delivering engineering solutions, with an early transition from hands-on physical engineering to software-driven approaches. I’ve worked with leading organisations such as Henkel, AMT-Sybex, Capita and Benchmark, where I specialised in both selling and implementing technology solutions – including ERP, EAM, Mobile Workforce Management and Bid & Estimating software.

This blend of technical and commercial experience has given me a strong understanding of how digital tools can drive operational efficiency and add value across the engineering and construction sectors. My roles have allowed me to bridge the gap between technical requirements and business objectives, ensuring successful project outcomes for clients.

Q. Why did you choose to work as a Business Development Manager for Weston Analytics?

A. Weston Analytics appealed to me because of its talented team and its portfolio of innovative products and services. The company’s backing by the Munnelly Group provides both stability and the resources needed to drive real growth and innovation.

What excites me most about the Business Development Manager role is the opportunity to work across not only construction, but also transport and utilities – sectors I know well and where there is significant investment in digital transformation. My experience in these industries means I understand their challenges and priorities, and I’m confident I can help Weston Analytics expand its presence and deliver real value to clients.

Overall, I see this role as an excellent fit for my skills and ambitions, offering the chance to make a meaningful impact within a forward-thinking organisation.

Q. What are your main priorities in your first few months at Weston Analytics?

A. My immediate priorities are to quickly get up-to-speed with Weston Analytics’ solutions and understand the unique strengths of the company and its team. And actively engage with the market – building relationships, identifying opportunities and raising awareness of our offering.

Most importantly, my focus will be on securing new business and bringing in high-profile clients that will help drive the company’s growth and reputation.

Q. Are there specific industries or sectors you’re particularly focused on for growth opportunities?

A. I’ve built my career working within ‘essential industries’ such as utilities, transport, construction and healthcare. I see a particular opportunity in the utilities sector, where Weston Analytics’ solutions are an excellent fit and there’s strong potential for growth and profitability.

At the same time, I believe it’s important to maintain momentum in construction – especially by positioning ConstructAI as a corporate-wide, industry-standard AI solution across the sector. By leveraging my experience and industry knowledge, I’m confident I can help drive adoption and deliver real value in both established and emerging markets.

Q. What does a typical day look like for you so far?

It’s always an early start in our house to fit everything in (including a dog walk) before one of us heads out for the school breakfast club drop-off at 7:40. Like many, my work day begins by logging into my PC, checking emails, reviewing the WA Sales inbox, and scanning for any new tender opportunities.

From there, no two days are the same. This week, for example, included a client golf day and our quarterly WA Onsite Team meeting – which was the first time I had the chance to meet the entire team in person.

Nick’s professional insights

Q. With over two decades in software and technology, what significant changes have you witnessed, and how have they shaped your strategies?

A. The most significant trend is the shift of IT solutions to a SaaS model, which enables organisations of all sizes to access enterprise-level capabilities. When attracting a broader range of clients – including smaller businesses – it’s essential to streamline and simplify the onboarding process. This approach reduces the cost of sale and helps maximise profitability while ensuring clients can quickly realise value from solutions.

Q. What trends in data analytics and IT services do you believe businesses should be paying attention to right now?

A. A very current trend among Fatigue360 clients is the increasing demand for rostered staff to be able to capture additional job data while on site.

Q. How do you envision Weston Analytics evolving over the next few years, and what role will business development play in that growth?

A. I see us growing substantially by expanding into new markets such as utilities by leveraging the expertise and solutions developed in the highly competitive construction sector. And by using a BDM approach that focuses on identifying, pursuing and capturing new opportunities to broaden our client base and deliver sustained growth.

Getting to know Nick

Q. How would you describe your approach to business development in three words?

A. Focused, proactive and repeatable.

Q. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone starting a career in business development?

A. Engage with the key stakeholders within client organisations and actively listen to them, ensuring you gain a clear and thorough understanding of their needs.

Q. You’re known for participating in ultra-marathons and Ironman events. That’s quite impressive! Is this something you’ve always been involved in or is it a more recent pursuit?

A. I initially started out racing in Enduro mountain biking events, but eventually transitioned to triathlons and ultramarathons after deciding to take a step back from the risks of crashing mountain bikes! Although I haven’t participated in any events since January, I still enjoy staying active and challenging myself whenever I can.

Q. How do these sporting challenges influence your professional mindset?

A. My mantra is to ‘focus on the next step’ – whether that means keeping my legs or wheels turning. I believe in maintaining steady progress regardless of the challenges ahead.

Q. What’s a personal achievement (work-related or otherwise) that you’re particularly proud of?

A. At Weston Analytics, it was great getting ‘J Murphy Group’ onboard and signed up as a new client.

Quick-fire round

Q. Tea or coffee?

A. Lots of coffee – three cups in the morning followed by a train of decafs all day long.

Q. Your favourite app right now?

A. My Tesla App… because of my battery anxiety!

Q. What’s one thing you can’t live without at work?

A. Good colleagues (and those with a bit of banter).

Q. Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

A. Don’t always listen to advice.