NAME: Neil Calderwood
COMPANY/REGION: McCarthy & Stone South West Region
JOB TITLE: Construction Director
DEPARTMENT: Construction/Commercial
PLEASE DESCRIBE WHAT YOUR DEPARTMENT DOES?
We Construct retirement flats for the elderly. This involves the construction and commercial elements.
PLEASE DESCRIBE WHAT YOU DO ON A DAY-TO-DAY BASIS?
My main role is to direct the construction and commercial staff in achiving our targets by motivating and helping to meet the regions requirements. I attend management meetings, visit sites under construction and new pieces of land. I generally look after all staff.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?
The role is demanding, but always interesting, with lots of variation. It is a people industry and that is how I like it.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS CAREER?
I got into building by chance, but I am glad that I did, as I nejoy the challenge and the buzz of the industry.
WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DID YOU NEED TO GET THIS JOB?
I started as a surveyor with ONC and HNC in building and I proceeded to Commercial Manager and finally Construction Director and I am now MCLOB qualified.
IS THERE ANY PARTICULAR ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE A GRADUATE OR TRAINEE LOOKING FOR A JOB IN YOUR WORK AREA?
Work hard, be willing to learn and take any opportunities you can!