I am responsible for the management of all design outputs for client, production and site activities at Stewart Milne Timber Systems. Within this remit, I must liase closely with all departments to ensure all projects are processed efficiently through the Design Office.
I am also responsible for the training of staff in all areas of timber frame design ensuring compliance with all quality manuals. In addition, I am responsible for the development of the CAD system and Design Office process.
On a day to day basis I liase with all design office personnel by allocating workload, solving problems, answering queries and reporting back to the Development Director any points requiring executive decisions. This is an active role responsible for up to 30 people and a monthly throughput of up to £4m. This is a senior position that requires close liaison with the senior team managers and a good understanding of the product and business process. Man management skills are critical and staff development is a top priority, control of resources and budgets are an important function. Experience and a strong leadership style is demanded in this role.
I have been working in the trees and timber industry for approaching 13 years. I was attracted to a career in the industry because timber frame was a relatively new and growing industry.
I commenced employment with the company as an Apprentice Design Technician. I was in this role while studying for an HNC level qualification on day release for a 4 year period. I then progressed to Design Technician. After a period I was then promoted to Senior Design Technician, looking after 6 staff members. From this, I was promoted to Design Manager, within this remit I now look after in the region of 30 staff members. I have been in this position for 2 and a half years.
I have completed an HNC in Architectural Technology, and MBA in Timber Frame Software, and a Management Development Programme at Cranfield University. The training, skills and exposure I have received from the company has enabled me to develop my career to a senior level.
My day to day duties include looking after the 30 people I am responsible for, ensuring that deadlines are met and quality is maintained at all times. Another responsibility is to deal with clients and industry bodies on all technical related matters.
The most satisfying and rewarding parts of my job are seeing the finished products that have been worked on in the office environment being built on site successfully, having a senior position, and the opportunity to work for the industry leader in timber frame in the UK.
Although not a new industry, trees and timber is a growing industry with a lot of potential for growth within the UK, which will require key individuals to work in technical roles.