October is Careers in Construction Month, and to celebrate we are interviewing a different member of our team each week, to find out more about their journey in the construction industry.
For our final interview, we’re shining the spotlight on Managing Director, Richard, and his impressive 33-year career in construction.
Beginning his journey in construction as an accounts assistant in 1993, Richard wasn’t necessarily drawn to the industry itself, but was looking for a role that offered the opportunity for training, and a large housebuilder happened to fit the bill.
Richard continued his journey in construction moving through finance-based roles, rising through the ranks until he became a finance director, then moving into general management around 20 years ago.
With this wealth of experience under his belt, Richard joined Shropshire Homes 9 years ago as our Finance Director, and took over from Chairman Howard Thorne as Managing Director in 2019.
Richard takes a people-first attitude to his role, particularly in what he enjoys most about his position and the industry as a whole; “The thing I most enjoy about our industry is that we make a real difference to people's lives, whether it is an individual moving into their first home, or a large family upsizing to something more suitable for their needs, we provide the bricks and mortar that they make into a home, their safe space and I would also like to think we build great communities that bring these individuals and families together and enhance their lives.”
When asked what advice he has for someone looking to join the construction industry, Richard told us that construction “offers opportunity for everyone, all abilities, whatever qualifications you have or don't have there is a role that could suit you. So my advice would be to get in at whatever level fits your experience and qualifications and make sure you watch, listen and learn from all those around you.”
He also places a lot of value on practical knowledge; “Get to understand how things are put together and get a practical understanding, no matter if you're sat behind a desk all day, by doing DIY or lending a hand somewhere. This practical knowledge is invaluable to everyone in our industry.”
Looking to the future, Richard is focusing on the wider demands of the industry; ”Our industry is constantly facing challenges, be that regulatory, market, supply chain etc, and I would like to help to make sure that Shropshire Homes and SH Partnerships are well prepared to fight these and are able to adapt quickly to ensure we stay ahead of the competition whilst continuing to delight our customers.”
A huge thank you to Richard for talking to us about his impressive career in construction, and congratulations for all he has done for Shropshire Homes so far – we’re looking forward to seeing what comes next!