#P4 whilst constantly searching for the industries established + experienced, and planning for future growth appointments – we have started our search for the next #P4 Apprentice/Junior Safety Advisor.
In 2017/18 we spent a lot of time and resources meeting so called ‘apprentice providers’ and other educational/vocational providers – who were desperate to give us free training (but not relevant to our requirements), subsidised salaries but with terms that didn’t fit our business and providers who had limited criteria for our company needs….boo! So after much wasted time we developed a package, a visual/clear career path, training plan (short + long term) and began our search for ‘The Future’ Junior Safety Advisor.
We spread the word for suitable candidates who wanted this unique opportunity to build a career within the construction sector. As you would expect, not many (that’s nobody in fact) grows up wanting to be a safety/CDM advisor, and (as highlighted earlier) there certainly aren’t any vocational/on the job apprenticeships for safety professionals. So the criteria was relatively simple… you would think (we did), but we had to search far and wide for the right person who:
– had basic/competent IT and administration skills
– was hardworking with a passion for career progression
– had a desire to commit and build a career within construction
– was self-motivated (these candidates are few and far between)
– didn’t want to be part of a large corporation giant, become a number and be treated like a ‘trainee’ or ‘student’
It proved harder than you would think/expect, surprising really considering the instant benefits available as part of the apprenticeship / employment offer:
– above market salary with increased increments after 3, 6 and 12 months (providing KPI’s achieved)
– pension
– flexible working (after 12 months)
– holiday allowance superior to most employers (even those big horrible corporate giants)
– pre-start course funded – 5 day IOSH Managing Safely Course
– immediate day release onto the NEBOSH certification
– immediate short 1-3 day courses booked (temporary works, confined spaces, first aid)
Other positives included:
– opportunity to work on the regions/UK’s prestigious projects
– the best office space in town (waterfront location), with associated benefits
– working for a reputable growing company who prides itself as an Equal Opportunities employer
OK enough of what we wanted…after many interviews (hours, more like days of our lives we will never get back) of people from all walks of life and varying ages – we got him. Connor McIlroy was offered the role and the initial opportunity to work/shadow/placement with #P4 so he and we could be sure we were both happy and ready to commit. After 6 months placement / shadowing he joined the team full time from June 2018. Here is his story:
Where you came from?
Woodchurch High School Birkenhead Sixth Form completed 3 A-Levels / McDonald’s 1.5 years of work
Why CDM + health and safety?
The industry interested, and continues to interest me. The various different problems and finding a solution to such problems gives a sense of achievement once a resolution has been found.
Achievements to date since joining Project Four?
Delivery of lower value schemes. Most notable scheme / high profile (but not in terms of value) would be Woodside Ferry Terminal. Others include: Wild Thang Demolition and Refurbishment, Hope Community Centre, Aintree, Cricket Retail Refurbishment at the Met Quarter. Best Achievement / scheme(s) – The Duke Portfolio (former Toy’s R Us sites) and working across all FI REM projects as well as the various NWTC projects in Coventry, Warrington, Cheltenham and Bath.
I am also very proud to have collected the ‘Best Newcomer Award’ at The City of Liverpool Business Awards in July 2019 on behalf of the #P4 Team.
Aspirations + long term objectives?
My long term aspirations are to become a Chartered Member of IOSH and I would hope to achieve this by 25 (5 years).
Progress?
Moved from an administration role to delivering my own projects and going to large scale sites to conduct audits and reports (Baltic One, Wild Thang, Buckland Street…)
What is it like to work for P4?
I enjoy working at Project Four because no 2 days are the same. There is a relaxed approach amongst the team, but this creates a much more productive atmosphere. The office is always vibrant with lots going on. It is easy to become motivated to complete tasks and meet deadlines when you are invested in the rest of the team both personally and professionally
Environment?
Productive / Relaxed but always very busy and professional. Fantastic office setup at Avenue HQ, right on Liverpool’s Waterfront adjacent to the ‘Three Graces’.
Challenges so far and with career advancement
NEBOSH has been by far the most challenging but rewarding and educational challenge I have faced.
If the above appeals or even if you would like more information, or a coffee to discuss please contact the office or email me alan@projectfoursafety.com
Thanks for reading.
Alan + the team.
