Q&A with Program Manager, Rob McBlack

Good decisions depend on good data. Just ask our Data & Analytics Program Manager, Rob McBlack… or get to know him below in this quick Q&A.

LET’S START WITH THE PERSONAL - TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF

I’m from mid north coast NSW and have been in Melbourne for 10 years. Outside work I enjoy bush walking, wood working, chess, podcasts and audiobooks – I’m currently listening to Ubik by Philip K. Dick.

My biggest personal achievement is solving a Rubik’s Cube in under two minutes! And getting my children to school on time in the morning (not an easy feat).

I am part of the LGBTIQ+ community and I’m also neurodivergent. I’m passionate about diversity and inclusion, and want people to know that IWN and myself are safe and welcoming for everyone.

WHAT’S YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND?

I’m currently Senior Analyst, Reporting & Insights for Greater Western Water, which I’ve been doing for almost two years. Before that, I worked in Business and Data Analyst roles for the past eight years, mainly in the telco industry.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE WHAT YOU DO EACH DAY (BUT TO YOUR GRANDMA)?

I help other people in Greater Western Water find the information they need to analyse and guide their decision making.

WHY DID YOU JOIN IWN?

I started as Deputy Program Manager a few months ago and recently changed to Program Manager for Data & Analytics. I think it’s great that we have a group dedicated to enhancing and collaborating within the industry, specifically for data and analytics.

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE WITH IWN?

For the industry: I’d love to contribute to improving data literacy and developing data skills. I’m also keen to see us improve data and analytics processes and remove pain points. On a personal level, I’m keen to learn and grow in the water industry, and to champion self-serve analytics.

WHAT GETS YOU OUT OF BED IN THE MORNING?

Usually, one of four children ranging in age from two to nine… if the dog doesn’t get in first!