Phillip Pickstock

Phillip is the Departmental Technical Manager for the Department of Mechanical Engineering, overseeing the day-to-day operations of all technical operations and infrastructure as well as long-term strategic resource planning.

His team of technical professionals includes over 30 colleagues, based in a variety of laboratories and workshops. They design and maintain a wide range of equipment including cutting edge mechanical engineering research rigs and apparatus.

Since joining the Department in 2015, Phillip has focused on developing team culture and improving performance with a strong emphasis on agile working, succession planning, proactive health and safety, and effective use of budget.

As a member of the executive team Phillip contributes to Departmental decision-making at the highest level, and aligns his priorities such that they underpin the Department’s overriding aim of delivering a high quality student experience in the short and long term.

Phillip sets high standards and positively influences Departmental culture in regard to all staff being treated with respect, regardless of gender and nationality, and is known for championing a ‘one-team’ culture.

Phillip was heavily involved in the development and project management of the ‘Engineering Heartspace’ a brand-new research, office and social space for the Faculty of Engineering that was opened  in 2020. Facilitating this project included moving more than 3000m2 of laboratory space, equipment and offices into new accommodation whilst maintaining operational continuity for colleagues and students.

Phillip is a diligent, degree qualified senior engineering professional who consistently brings a positive, professional and inclusive approach. This is built on more than 30 years of engineering and commercial experience, previously working at Senior Management level within global companies.

Phillip’s positions prior to the University of Sheffield have included Assistant General Manager at Toyota Tsusho UK Ltd, Production Engineer at Koyo Bearings Europe Ltd, Materials Technologist at Buehler Europe Ltd and Metallurgical Technician at the University of Manchester.

In 2018, Phillip was accredited as a Chartered Engineer through the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.