The CEO of the drylining, insulation and M&E solutions distributor on growing the business, the need for a change of approach from the government, his admiration for people who push the boundaries and why he doesn’t have a smartwatch
Why did you choose construction as a career?
I never planned to work in the merchant sector; I suppose you could say I fell into it. I have now been in the sector for over 25 years and, although there have been lots of ups and downs during that time, the thing I have always loved most about this industry is the importance placed on relationships. Strong partnerships are what drives the success of any business in a trade environment like ours, and that’s especially true at etag.
Following our 20th anniversary last year, we have implemented an ambitious growth strategy which will further elevate our offering as a complete system solutions provider and see us achieve high-quality outcomes in partnership with our colleagues, clients and suppliers.
What are you most proud of in your career to date?
I always enjoyed working at Gibbs & Dandy, a Saint-Gobain business. I loved the culture, we had fun as a team and achieved great things. I always hoped that, one day, I would return to the business as MD. The day it happened was one of the best days of my career.
My next highlight will be in a few years’ time, when I get to reflect on how much we have achieved at etag. Since I joined the business, my priority has been to set the foundations for growth, putting in place all the systems, structures and strategy necessary to ensure we are able to deliver on our newly refreshed customer value proposition.
Our aim is to capitalise on our two decades of experience providing the industry with drylining, insulation, membranes, M&E support systems and fixings, to create even more efficiencies in project timelines and processes. We are well on our way to achieving that and have lots of exciting plans in the pipeline. It’s a brilliant time to be working for us, and with us.
What has been the biggest challenge of your career to date?
There have been many, but especially in the past 10 years, when the industry has had to manage various economic difficulties, a cost-of-living crisis, and of course, the covid pandemic. What has always been so special to note is the resilience of our industry. No matter what is thrown our way, we always find a way to serve our customers, which is down to the amazing people who are dedicated to the success of the sector.
If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?
I don’t believe the government – irrespective of party – have “got it right” with regard to construction for a very long time. Whether it is building regulations or economic policies that affect mortgages and affordability, these things impact demand for materials and construction, and there is a serious disconnect between government decisions and their actual outcomes for the sector.
Whoever is in power, I want to see fundamental changes to their approach, to help us build more.
Name your favourite building in the world
The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is remarkable – such a unique building both inside and out!
Which famous building do you most dislike?
I find the MI6 building in Vauxhall very ugly.
Which famous building do you wish you had worked on?
The Shard, due to its technical nature, with all the glass shards and the overall height.
What single piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in your profession?
Always ask questions and be inquisitive. Whether you are with colleagues or customers, asking the right questions will always help you to learn faster and progress more quickly.
Who do you most admire in the construction industry?
I don’t admire any one specific person or company, however I do admire all the entrepreneurial founders and leaders of business who aim to change the shape of the industry.
People or companies who scrap the rule books, the status quo, and push the boundaries are the ones who impress me the most.
What is it like being you (and doing your job)?
I am responsible for delivering on our current performance, while looking towards the future success of the business, so I am constantly in contact with different people. I work with a lot of stakeholders, from our investors to our chairman to our board, as well as all my great colleagues and our customers.
Because of the diversity of the people I work with, I have to continuoally adapt while communicating, which I love doing.
Do you have a life philosophy?
Treat people how you would expect to be treated and never ask anyone to do something you would not do yourself.
What do you think your best quality is?
I can always spot the best qualities in others, which helps me to relate to people and have great teams around me.
Name three things that you like
Family time, Formula One and running.
What is your most prized possession?
My watches! I have still not gone down the smartwatch route – I’m still very much a traditionalist on this front.
Are you an early bird or a night owl?
5.30am alarm, 9.30pm bedtime, so very much an early bird.
What is your favourite food?
I could eat pasta every day. Unfortunately, my wife, Chloe, doesn’t agree.
What would your superpower be?
Seeing the future!
No comments yet