My first boss

How did it all start?

I joined Birmingham council’s housing department as an apprentice carpenter and joiner in 1968.

This was a four-year training position and, during that time, I was based at various depots in the city. Essentially, I was learning a trade: doing repairs on council housing stock; going out and appraising jobs; and gradually building up my skills.

Sounds like a good grounding

I was proud of what I’d achieved at the end of my apprenticeship and I’d also started to develop a social conscience.

After 10 years on the job, I became a union representative and, later, I took on my current position as a maintenance officer.

I’ve always liked applying my skills in a practical way that makes a difference to people’s day-to-day lives.

Proper maintenance is essential not only for tenants’ quality of life but also for the long-term sustainability of their homes.

Who was the boss?

One of the old school. His name was Ted Lowe and he was a depot foreman who was tough but very competent. He had high standards and scared and inspired us at the same time.

Any bad memories?

A few verbal clips around the ear.

Ted was one of the old school. He scared and inspired us at the same time

And good ones?

Loads. Many were highly amusing at the time but in retrospect are a little scary.

In my first week at work, while doing repairs on a flat above a bookmaker, I witnessed a great billowing of dust as customers fled the building below when the ceiling collapsed. Mercifully, no one was hurt.

I couldn’t help seeing the funny side at the time – but I’d have a different perspective if the same thing happened now.

What did he teach you?

To be fair but firm with your staff, to care about what you do and to deliver a good job. Customers are the ultimate judge of quality and we should value their opinions highly.

Ted’s principles of honesty and fairness remain with me and I believe these are vital in good working relationships.

I’ve been with Waterloo for almost 10 years now. I focus on pre- and post-inspection, contract management and tender coordination. This needs a great deal of consultation to ensure residents want the type of maintenance we do. We try to involve them in all relevant decision-making.

What has stayed with you?

As a member of a team that maintains about 5000 homes across the West Midlands and Warwickshire, I have to give every householder the same high level of service. My apprenticeship under Ted had a lot to do with that outlook.