Welcome to the team: Paul Herrod, Field Service Engineer
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
By Darren Lewis | 24-02-26
We’re pleased to welcome Paul to Solar Group Utilities as the newest member of our growing team.
Paul joins us with a strong technical background and nearly a decade of military experience as an Avionics Aircraft Engineer. His career has been built on precision, responsibility, and working under pressure — qualities that translate seamlessly into the standards we uphold across our solar portfolio.
What first drew you to SGU?
When I had my initial conversation with Darren, I was really impressed by his honesty and the way he described SGU as a small but close-knit team. That was a huge tick for me. The direction the company is heading is exciting, and it’s something I genuinely want to be part of and help build.
Being part of a team that puts equal emphasis on its people and the quality of its work motivates me to bring my best every day. I’m looking forward to building new relationships, supporting the team, and contributing to SGU’s excellent reputation in the industry.
What do you think makes the team at SGU stand out from others you’ve worked with?
Because the team is relatively small, there’s a real sense that you’re not overlooked. Darren and Stuart, despite being Managing Directors, are incredibly welcoming and open. That creates an environment where people feel supported and able to develop their skills across different areas.
Looking back, what’s been a memorable project or challenge you’ve really enjoyed tackling?
Coming from a military background, I’d say my most memorable and rewarding project was a full aircraft wiring investigation, which resulted in the majority of the aircraft being rewired — a project I played a lead role in. It was time-critical work, with significant pressure and some sleepless nights, but it was hugely satisfying to be part of something so complex and important.
If you could learn a completely new skill (work-related or not), what would it be?
Although I enjoy cooking and dabble in the kitchen, I’d love to become a really skilled chef. Everyone appreciates good food, after all!
What’s a book, podcast, or TV show you’d recommend to the rest of the team?
My wife and I enjoy settling down in the evening with a good crime series. My personal favourite is Line of Duty. There are plenty of seasons to get stuck into — ideal for a proper binge with snacks and something to drink.
How do you usually start your day to set yourself up for success?
I have two young children, so sleep can be limited. My day always starts with a strong coffee — sometimes two — to get going.
What’s one thing your colleagues might be surprised to learn about you?
I would love to say that I have an important morning routine that I stick to every day to set me up for the day ahead, but some days I start with Pilates and smoothies, other days I just head straight for cornflakes and tea. I think the most important thing though for every day is to have a positive attitude.
A message from Darren and Stuart
“We’re really pleased to welcome Paul to Solar Group Utilities. His technical background, military discipline, and calm approach under pressure are exactly the qualities that strengthen our team.
What stood out to us from the start was his attitude — a willingness to take ownership, get stuck in, and be part of something growing. As we continue to build SGU carefully and deliberately, it’s people like Paul who make that growth sustainable.
Welcome to the team, Paul.”
Because we care.
