Here at Phoenix, we are proud of every member of our Team! Each week we like to introduce a member of the #teamPhoenix family, so we can all get to know each other better and to share our experiences.
Last week Drywall Contracts Manager Dean Hewitt told us that he has been in the building industry since leaving school in 1980.
Up next is Brickwork Construction Director Jamie Duerden.
How long have you been at Phoenix for, and how have you progressed in your time here?
I joined the Phoenix Team a little over nine years ago as a Bricklayer, I soon progressed to Site Supervisor then on to be a Site Manager. For the last six years I've worked as a Contracts Manager and most recently have been appointed to Construction Director.
What was your background in the industry before Phoenix?
I was involved in the Construction Industry from an early age mostly thanks to my uncle Colin who was a successful Brickwork Contractor, he gave me the grass roots into the industry until I was old enough to leave school and start an apprenticeship. As a Bricklayer I then started my own business contracting in both industrial and residential construction sectors.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
If you speak to my friends and family they would say I take the mick as I'm a bit of a serial hobbyist but most recently I've picked the golf clubs back up and I’m enjoying that again. Other than that, I have a passion for cars & motorbikes and most things with an engine, plus spending time with those closest to me.
What's the best project you've been part of?
There has been so many great Phoenix Projects over the years with my involvement, and for different reasons I’m proud of them all. However, there is one that holds that special place for me and that is Darley Dale care home. It was the largest Phoenix project at the time and included a mix of various stone and masonry. It was a great design and a fantastic looking building!
Do you have any funny stories on-site that you'd like to share?
Funny stories, lots. Ones I can share? Well, that’s tricky… but one that stands out that I can share is when I shouted for a hand across site to help me load a water container onto the back of the truck and instead of taking the long safe way around, he decided to take a short cut across what he thought was mud (despite my obvious loud warnings) and sunk up to his waste in slurry. When I eventually stopped laughing it took us two hours to get him out.
What would you say to those looking to get into the industry?
Absolutely do it! The Construction Industry has been very good to me and offers up fantastic opportunities for those that are willing. It's hard work and graft but you get out what you put in and it can be very rewarding. You meet some interesting characters in this Industry and I've made some lifelong friends through it.
And finally, what does being part of #teamPhoenix mean to you?
Being part of #teamphoenix is being part of a family. Regardless of your roll within our company everyone is treated equally with help and support and are encouraged to engage with the business as a valued team member. These values remain the same since formation and continue with the growth of the company.
