What inspired you to pursue a career in the fit-out industry?

Several family members are involved in different areas of the industry – my dad worked in construction and my father-in-law has a vast experience in commercial joinery fit-outs. Initially, I started in despatch and quality control at a joinery company. Over time, I became more interested in the fit-out side of the industry. 

After speaking to DBSJ’s Directors Laurence Hill and Joe Pearson, I was inspired to take on a traineeship with them. Some experienced project managers, such as Michael Templar and Jazz Malcolm, took me under their wing and have been mentoring me for the last 6 months. It was very reassuring that all four had worked their way up, starting from apprenticeships or courses and progressing to the positions they hold today. 

Why did you choose DBSJ to get into fit-outs?

When I was offered the contract, I reflected on who I’d be working with and realised that DBSJ’s close-knit approach would provide the perfect environment for me to grow my career. Their family-oriented mindset means that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute to the company’s success. They look after their employees, offering flexibility when we need to juggle other life responsibilities and ensuring a good work-life balance. 

DBSJ is also one of Britain’s fastest-growing private companies, as awarded by the Sunday Times. We offer first-class services, and our integrated approach is redefining the fit-out industry. The whole team is driven to achieve exceptional results because everyone is motivated and feels inspired to contribute to a company that genuinely values and supports them. 

“DBSJ’s trainee scheme offer an invaluable opportunity to anyone considering a career in the fit-out industry.”

What projects have you worked on? And what has been your role in each of them? 

I have been very involved in Specsavers’ franchise development across the UK alongside Michael Templar and in several locations for IWG with Ian Honnor. My role has evolved over the past months, but I’ve been acting as a middleman between clients, subcontractors, lead project managers and site managers, which has helped me get a more well-rounded view of how to transform a space into an exceptional fit-out. 

Lately, I have been taking the lead more in the pre-construction phase of different projects as well as health and safety on-site. I’ve been given more responsibility to liaise with clients on a regular basis, building a strong long-term relationship with our partners, upholding DBSJ’s collaborative approach. 

A project that I’m particularly proud of is Panorama’s core area refurbishment, where we completed a refurbishment of their staff area in just five weeks. Under Michael’s supervision, I was trusted with handling the whole project, from estimating costs to delivering a snag-free finish. It was a fantastic opportunity for me to take ownership of the project and gain hands-on experience. Michael provided invaluable guidance and support, helping me navigate challenges and build confidence in my role. 

What skills have you learnt? 

Every day brings new opportunities to learn. Perhaps the areas where I’ve seen the greatest improvement are in time management, people skills and leadership. Workers on-site look up to you to tell them what they need to do, and it can be nerve-wracking sometimes, but it’s the key to effectively organise tasks and confidently guide the team to stay in programme. 

I’ve undertaken training in first aid, PASMA course and I have learnt other skills that are necessary to manage a construction site safely and efficiently. 

What is involved in your day-to-day? 

Typically, Mondays are our office days, so I focus on internal meetings and pre-start administrative tasks. During these sessions, we provide project progress updates to our clients and ensure all relevant information is effectively communicated. I also prepare the necessary health and safety documentation required before starting on-site. 

As I’m very involved in pre-construction, I often work closely with Sandra Henniker, our Business Unit Administrator, to ensure all necessary documentation, from risk assessments to full construction phase plans, is ready to start on site. While our roles differ, coordinating our efforts is essential for a smooth project flow and staying on schedule. Our collaboration remains just as important later in the project, when we review our checklist to make sure all required documents are in place. I frequently liaise with subcontractors to help Sandra gather all the documentation she needs. 

On other days, we hold client meetings to discuss project specifics. A couple of times a week, I attend site visits to carry out scoping meetings and oversee progress, ensuring that subcontractors are working safely and following the programme. Project ownership is fundamental to keep the project on track and deliver to the highest standards as we always do. 

What kind of projects or roles would you like to work on as you grow in your career? 

I look up to Michael Templar and Jazz Malcolm, who have successfully managed exceptional projects such as prime and luxury fit-outs for renowned brands and the iconic Engine Room at Battersea Power Station. Their expertise and dedication make them truly inspiring role models, and I would love to follow in their footsteps, becoming the best in my field – a manager that everybody looks up to.