Here at Phoenix Brickwork/Drywall/Scaffold, we are proud of every member of our team. Whether they're in the office or on-site, everyone works tirelessly to ensure that the overall stability and success of Phoenix is always at the highest level.
We are all #teamPhoenix, and we want to continue showcasing those within by giving you the chance to know more about them, including some stories and advice. Last time, Jason Cordova told us why the recently completed Mustard Wharf in Leeds was his favourite project to be part of.
Next up to tackle the questions it's Site Manager, Neil Finch.
How long have you been at Phoenix for, and how have you progressed in your time here?
I’ve been at Phoenix for around 10 years. I started as a ‘brickie’ with my own crew and went to the dark side of management five years ago. In that time, I’ve achieved many different qualifications including CPCS, SSSTS, SMSTS and most recently an NVQ Level Six in Construction Management which earns me a black CSCS card - hopefully that means I get my free Nando’s soon!
I’m also a trained First Aider and a Mental Health Aider, the latter of which I’m very proud of as I suggested it to Phoenix and all managers were offered the course. My suggestion was met with positive feedback, and I was gifted with a £50 Amazon voucher.
What was your background in the industry before Phoenix?
My dad was always involved in the building trade, and after leaving school I started a YTS (Youth Training Scheme) in bricklaying with the Wimpy Training Centre earning £27 per week which then progressed into an apprenticeship with Wimpy Homes.
After completing my apprenticeship, I took some time away and travelled around Europe before coming back into the trade a year or so later as a self-employed bricklayer.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I work hard and like to enjoy myself at weekends, whether that be mini-holidays or family occasions, all with a few drinks.
I also like playing sports and being active, mainly football on a Monday and going to the gym, doing spin classes, and cycling. I sometimes play golf but not as much as I’d like. My Saturday afternoons are usually spent following my beloved Nottingham Forest.
What's the best project you've been part of?
Without a doubt it must be BCU City South Campus in Birmingham. The detailing of the works and the whole team I had there were brilliant.
Do you have any funny stories on-site that you'd like to share?
There are many stories that I can’t share, but one I will tell was when I was greeted on the street by ‘On the Tools’ and when he asked me to sing a song with him and I bragged that I could sing anything by Dizzee Rascal, so as he started to sing Bonkers, I had to carry it on and got all the words wrong.
Not one to brag, but the video of that on their Facebook has over 100,000 views!
https://www.facebook.com/onthetools/videos/2789693497932404/
What would you say to those looking to get into the industry?
Come into the industry with an open mind and be whoever you want to be out of work, but don’t let it get in the way of your working week. This industry is so diverse that it can cater for anyone from any walk of life. The opportunities are endless for the right people, and it pays the right people very well and is a great career choice.
And finally, what does being part of #teamPhoenix mean to you?
As a ‘sportsman’ there’s no better times when being in a team that always supports each other, whether that be given to me, or I provide it for others. Because of that, Phoenix will always be an amazing company to be a part of.
