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Alasdair McLay

Managing Partner - Business Solutions Architecture at Exyion, Inc

Professional Background

Alasdair McLay is a seasoned Utilities Program Manager, Business Subject Matter Expert (SME), and Technical Solution Architect, specializing in the fields of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Asset Management. With a remarkable career spanning over 25 years in the utilities sector, Alasdair has honed his skills and expertise across various roles and projects, demonstrating an impressive blend of technical knowledge, business acumen, and project management capabilities.

Alasdair began his journey in the utilities industry over two decades ago with Scottish & Southern Energy in the UK, where he gained foundational experience as an Electrical Engineer. His early career laid the groundwork for a deeper understanding of energy trading, which provided a critical backdrop as he transitioned into more complex roles. Following his decade-long tenure at Scottish & Southern Energy, Alasdair joined IBM, where he dedicated 14 years to driving impactful projects on an international scale.

Throughout his career at IBM, Alasdair served as a Solution Specialist within IBM’s Global Energy & Utilities Industry group, focusing on Intelligent Utility Networks (IUN) that encompassed Smart Grid Technology, Smart Metering, and GIS, to help upgrade utility services for various clients. His contributions in this area underscore a commitment to enhancing efficiency and sustainability in utility management.

Alasdair's most notable projects include his leadership as GIS Project Manager at Sempra Energy, where he played a pivotal role in managing a significant $20 million project. He then progressed in his career to PG&E, where he designed and sold a comprehensive GIS and Asset Management Program valued at $50 million. In this role, he served as both the Solution Architect and Program Manager, overseeing a multi-faceted program that boosted the Electric Distribution Asset Management process for PG&E over a span of three years.

His strategic and managerial skills have also led him to hold senior roles including Programme Test & Integration Manager, IT Project & Support Manager, and Team Manager. In his previous position at IBM, Alasdair spearheaded the Energy Trading & Risk Management Systems Group, where he developed strategic partnerships with key system vendors and drove forward-thinking initiatives in energy management technologies.

Education and Achievements

Alasdair McLay's educational journey began at the University of Strathclyde, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. This academic foundation equipped him with the technical skills and analytical prowess necessary for a successful career in a rapidly evolving sector. Additionally, his formative education at Castlehead High School in Paisley, Scotland, provided the early nurturing that inspired his interest in engineering and technology.

With a career marked by continuous learning and professional development, Alasdair has accumulated a wealth of knowledge through his hands-on experiences across various organizations. His participation in large-scale projects has not only bolstered the performance of utilities and energy firms but has also significantly contributed to advancements in GIS technology and asset management practices.

Organizations

Following his extensive career at IBM, Alasdair has held several important roles in the industry that reflect his expertise and leadership in GIS and energy management. Currently, he serves as the Managing Partner at Exyion, Inc, where he focuses on Business Solutions Architecture and contributes significantly to guiding clients in optimizing utility services.

Previously, Alasdair was the Vice-President of GIS Solutions & Utility Consulting at Rader Logic LLC, demonstrating his capability in strategic leadership and utility consulting. His project management credentials were further solidified during his time at IBM, where he served as GIS Project Manager for both PG&E and Sempra Utilities, as well as holding the role of Energy Trading Technical Consultant with IBM Global Business Services. His breadth of experience also includes roles as a Self-Employed Developer at Business Objects and Energy Trading Support Manager at Scottish and Southern Energy, showcasing a versatile career trajectory that emphasizes both technical and managerial expertise.

Achievements

Alasdair's career accomplishments are a testament to his dedication and influence in the utilities sector. With a strong focus on project management and GIS solutions, he has been instrumental in implementing multimillion-dollar projects that enhancements to asset management and operational efficiencies. From leading the development of cutting-edge GIS solutions to managing high-profile projects that demand intricate technical understanding and strategic foresight, Alasdair's achievements underscore a strong legacy in the industry. His extensive experience, technical skills, and innovative approach position him as a respected thought leader in the utilities and asset management domains.

Related Questions

How did Alasdair McLay develop his expertise in GIS and Asset Management over his extensive career?
What were the significant challenges that Alasdair McLay faced while managing multi-million dollar utility projects?
In what ways has Alasdair McLay contributed to the advancement of Smart Grid Technology within the utilities sector?
How has Alasdair’s background as an Electrical Engineer shaped his approach to project management in the energy industry?
What innovative solutions did Alasdair McLay implement during his tenure at PG&E for their Electric Distribution Asset Management Program?
Alasdair McLay
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Location

Irvine, California