Insights

My First Year at Evolution Data Centres

What made you want to work for Evolution?

I studied Computer Science at university and, whilst I loved technology, I also liked the law (and, if I’m honest, really enjoyed arguing) so ended up qualifying as a lawyer. Fortunately, I was able to combine two passions by becoming a lawyer specialised in technology law. I spent the next twenty odd years working in law firms advising clients on matters in the technology, IT and telecoms space.

I specialised in advising on large-scale technology projects for major organisations such as banks, technology companies, telcos, and financial institutions. On the telecoms side work included building telecoms networks and towers and masts portfolios, procuring subsea cable construction and satellites; on the tech side areas like software development, IT outsourcing and hardware procurement; and, of course, combining the two, data centre projects. 

Over time I also got involved in helping technology start-ups at the beginning of their journey which was a fascinating contrast to working with big organisations: helping from the inception of the business, assisting entrepreneurs setup, grow and exit their businesses. I found the process of scaling a fast-growing and innovative business fascinating and always wanted to experience being part of a small ambitious start-up for myself.

Being a lawyer I am naturally cautious and, whilst I’d helped a fair few start-ups succeed, I’d also seen my share of failures. So, if I was to join a start-up, it had to be the right one. I already knew Ed and had given him some help when he and Darren were considering starting Evolution. 

I liked the concept of the business: there was a clear gap in the market for developing digital infrastructure in emerging countries in Southeast Asia and doing so in a sustainable way was a particularly attractive. In addition, I thought that Darren and Ed had put together a high-calibre team that looked set to achieve.  The opportunity to get involved directly in an ambitious and pioneering start-up in an area I love and also help address an obvious need, was too hard to resist.

How has your first year been?

It’s been great fun, but like any start-up, pretty hard work! We’ve achieved a lot already establishing and building relationships with our local partners in our various markets, and negotiating agreements with a range of landowners, suppliers, developers and, of course, customers.  

In addition, I’m wearing two hats: General Counsel and interim COO, which means there are a lot of matters to deal with that are fairly new to me; on a given day I can be involved in any aspects of the business: negotiating term sheets and contracts, liaising with suppliers, dealing with HR matters, fixing IT problems and even occasionally getting team t-shirts made – it’s very varied! We’re moving fast and have achieved an incredible amount in a relatively short period of time. But there’s still a lot more to do. 

What It’s like to work at Evolution?

I’m really enjoying it; the culture is unlike any other business which I’ve worked for. We’re a small highly experienced team, who are trying to achieve highly challenging goals in a relatively short space of time. The team all have their own individual specialisms so there’s an awful lot of interaction, we’ve all got a great sense of purpose and luckily, we all get on well. 

What’s your perspective on the regional data centre market? 

The data centre market in Southeast Asia has massive potential, particularly in new markets (outside the traditional Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo hubs). There’s a great confluence of the need for additional locally situated digital infrastructure, access to funding and good governmental support. This means that it’s a perfect time to be developing datacentres in the region. There’s also a growing supply of sustainable power of differing types because of the wealth of natural resources and a clear demand. So, there’s not only the opportunity to build new hyperscale facilities, but we can also minimise environmental impact at the same time. 

I love the fact that no one else is doing what we are at the moment. It’s fun to be trailblazing and even when new entrants enter the space, we’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that we were first. So, I think that it’s a very exciting time, not only for us, but also the region as a whole. 

Tell us a bit about your personal commitment to sustainability

Since working for Evolution, I have become much more aware of environmental issues that I’m afraid I’d previously given little thought to. I much more conscious about turning lights off and not getting things I don’t need. I’ve carried a backpack to work for the last 25 years but still would take two carrier bags in the supermarket – now I don’t, I use the bag that I’ve already got. I also used to take a taxi to work every single day; now I cycle and use the MRT to get to the office, which is not only a bit of exercise, but also quicker and better for the environment. I’ve become more aware that small everyday lifestyle changes add up and can make a big environmental impact. 

What do you do when you’re not working?

As I mentioned, working for Evolution is very rewarding but high pace. When I’m not at work I like to spend time with my family – who are amazing – but with three boys aged nine, seven and five, a dog and two cats, and, of course, a wonderful wife, like Evolution that’s also pretty hectic! Our weekends are busy and filled with the usual swimming lessons, rugby and football matches or just hanging out. In between I treat myself to the odd glass of Kiwi white.

Is there anything else that you’d like to add?  

The first year at Evolution has been so different to everything that I have done, but really enjoyable. I’ve learned so much about sustainability and it’s great to work with such a talented team. As we move forward with construction I’m looking forward to the next twelve months as we start to bring everything together. One thing I’m sure of is that it won’t be boring.