Simply the best

What’s the best thing about Willmott Dixon as an employer?

It is a company that not only appreciates, but more importantly demonstrates that its biggest asset is its staff – it doesn’t just talk the talk. It communicates with its employees more effectively than any other company I have worked for and I’m impressed with the chief operating officer being on first-name terms with all the project teams. I am sure the low staff turnover rate that Willmott Dixon has (compared to industry averages) relates directly to this.

Give an example of a refreshing thing your company did for you.

They actually deliver what is said at interview stage, especially with training and career development planning.

In what areas does Willmott Dixon still need to do some work?

It’s really too early to say, ask me that again in a year’s time.

How many other companies have you worked for?

Since starting in the industry in 1979, I have worked for five other major civil and building contractors. The majority of my UK experience has been on civil and building projects in the north-west of England, but I have also worked abroad for five years in West Africa and Saudi Arabia.

Can you name a few characteristics of the worst place you’ve ever worked?

Ineffective and inadequate management at very senior level is the worst, resulting in disaffected staff that are treated solely as numbers. Other bad characteristics I have seen are poor teamwork between departments, a blame culture, turf guarding and a high staff turnover rate which is unsettling to staff that remain.

Ever feel like leaving construction? Why or why not?

Not with any serious intent. If you are dealing with a difficult or problem project I think it’s quite normal to reflect on other “less stressful” ways of making a living.

However, dealing with complex issues and successfully completing a project gives enormous satisfaction to all those involved – something that few other industries can match.

What three simple things would make construction a more pleasant career choice?

• The partnered approach to project management becoming the norm within the industry
• Improve benefits in general for construction personnel through improved margins
• Companies being better at celebrating their success with their employees instead of large bonuses just being enjoyed at board level.

We live in the real world, I know, but can you describe the sort of benefits and atmosphere in the company of your dreams?

A house in the south of France for all employees, four-day working week… but then I would only get bored! I am more than happy with the challenges my current job gives me and the fact that my efforts are recognised and appreciated.