Regional Site Manager winner 2022 - South East

Number of units: 63 new homes.

Features: A collection of two, three, and four bedroom homes surrounded by protected Woodland and just an hour from London.

How did you feel when you found out you had won the award?

Ecstatic. I had a feeling we had done well but getting the call to confirm it meant so much to me. I definitely think there were a few people in the vicinity that might have heard me when I received the information!

What does it mean to you personally?

It’s always a personal goal of mine to be the best I can be. To have it recognised professionally is everything. It helps set you apart, but at the same time it inspires others to do likewise.

What does it mean for your team / business?

Elivia Homes has recently undergone a huge re-branding campaign, so to win this award at the beginning of the new journey is massive. It really puts us on the map for what we want to achieve, and signals our intentions for the future.

What makes a good Site Manager?

An understanding and acceptance that we don’t know everything. Every day is a school day and we are constantly learning. Don’t be afraid to ask and listen to the people around you rather than charging into something.

The more open and approachable you are whilst working with other professionals such as trades, colleagues, LABC Warranty and building control, the more you ultimately stand to gain, both personally and on-site. You can’t learn if you don’t listen!

What challenges have you faced, like COVID, supply issues, the economy, and how have you overcome them?

Planning works has inevitably become a lot more challenging. Looking forward to completions, we have to consider whether we need to look at alternative designs and materials to get around key dates.

Site organisation also plays a big role in these circumstances, especially when you have to consider storing and protecting materials you would not normally need so far in advance. A well-planned site makes it safer, reduces plant operation and increases productivity.

Also, by giving your workforce the safest and most productive environment you can, you encourage them to take pride in their work and ensure their attendance. Last year we saw big labour shortages across the industry. If you care about your site, are approachable and they enjoy being there, they are going to prioritise your site over other sites they may be working on.

What one success in your work are you most proud of and why?

Being able to start and finish a job no matter how challenging it may be. To repeat this multiple times and have longevity says everything. There is a lot that comes with sticking at it even when things get tough.

To win an award like Regional Site Manager of the Year says it all. It cements everything you have done leading up to that moment, helps you realise how far you have come, and helps you realise your potential.