I started with SBS in September 2022, working as a trainee Quantity Surveyor. My role within the North West / North Wales team has developed quickly since then. Originally, I started out sorting commercial admin, but now I am the lead Quantity Surveyor over several projects, reporting into my Regional Director.
My general duties include managing the sub-contract team, and ensuring all variations are identified, priced and instructed in a timely manner. I also cover a number of other important tasks, such as controlling costs on site, and producing cashflow and revenue forecasts. I also complete monthly cost reports in the form of CVRs and play a key role in agreeing both client and sub-contract valuations. The job is hugely challenging but it’s also a lot of fun. My team is really good to work with. I feel like I have my own little ‘work family’ to go to every day.
I first became interested in taking an apprenticeship at SBS because I was keen to learn the skills on the job. I wanted to develop my knowledge of construction whilst undertaking a degree course, and I’m grateful that SBS was able to provide this for me. Now, a little while later, skills development is still really important; I’m always learning about 20 different things every day – from site managers, contract managers, subcontractors and others.
Looking ahead, I’d like to be in a senior position one day; maybe even go for something like a commercial manager role. That’s probably what I aspire to do. If I had any advice for people thinking about following a similar path, especially women, I’d say get involved as soon as possible; do it because there are so many different opportunities in the industry now. And do it because we’re making a real difference to people’s lives. Knowing that we’re making that difference makes me really proud that I work for Sustainable.
