Well, basically we are moving the Army College and that will affect around 2,000 people, so we are decanting all the systems, specialised MoD equipment and the kit into a new £100m centre. We are 'decanting' from old to new. I am now doing a hell of a lot of work on the facilities management side and we will be operational by August 2002.
What attracted you to the job?
It kept me in facilities management but in a different area. I'm dealing with the grass roots and get to influence what goes in [to the new facility]. The job will broaden my experience in facilities management as well as develop my project management skills.
How does this job differ from traditional facilities management?
It's totally different. In the last job I did I was given a set of existing buildings to look after. This is more challenging and a lot more enjoyable.
What does a normal day involve?
It varies. At the moment we are doing MoD tours, showing about 10 people around a day. It's not important that they know how everything works, but 2,000 people need to go through because they will eventually be based here.
How is it challenging?
It's more advanced. You are flying by the seat of your pants day-to-day. There are two companies involved — Jarvis Workspace FM, for whom I work, and Jarvis Building. The timescales are different. The construction side is sliding so the moving-in time is shortening.
How do you rate the job?
From my point of view it's a good job. The other company I was working for was laying people off, while Jarvis is a booming company.
Would you like to be involved in more PFI deals?
I certainly would with Jarvis.
Source
The Facilities Business
