In the first of our new series, “Under the Hammer with…” we sat down with Douglas, our Joinery Contracts Manager to find out more about his role.
How long have you worked for Meldrum?
I’ve worked here for 20 years and originally joined as a joiner. I have worked my way up to my current position
How many years have you been in construction/joinery?
I left school at 16 and started a local joinery apprenticeship. I have worked for a few joinery companies before joining Meldrum as a joiner
Tell us what makes a day in the life of a Meldrum Contracts manager?
In here early doors, catching up with the other senior contract managers. We discuss our various projects and plan out the rest of the day
I’ll take some time out to get in touch with each of our teams who are on different projects to make sure everything is going to plan.
Other aspects of my role are project surveys and providing quotes to clients for smaller private projects
I also deal with many of our long-term housing contracts, which includes void properties. This involves clearing the property and bringing the property back to a safe and habitable space.
Every Thursday morning, we have a senior management project meeting to discuss and plan the following week and to resolve any issues
Favourite project you’ve worked on at Meldrum?
We emptied and completely refurbished a property that looks after and houses vulnerable and homeless people. We installed new kitchens, bathrooms and private rooms. We also completely re-decorated and laid new floor coverings throughout. Helping people in need especially during the Festive period is why this is such a memorable project
Hardest / most challenging project and why?
A project in Kinloch Rannoch. This project involved a complete renovation of a property for a gamekeeper’s new premises on the estate – it was challenging because of the remote location, the Winter weather conditions, logistics and the large scale of the project
What would you say is your best trait / characteristic for your role?
People person – easily make rapport with people – customers, suppliers and sub-contractors. Good team leader for my team of joiners who I oversee and manage. Outgoing personality who enjoys his work
What makes Meldrum different from other construction companies?
It’s a very well-run, family company and an enjoyable one to work for – if it wasn’t as enjoyable to work for then I wouldn’t be in my 21st year with the company so that is testament to the company culture
What did you do to keep busy during Lockdown?
During lockdown I just kept myself busy around the house and garden and aimed to go for a daily walk. One of my projects was painting the fence and redoing the garden shed.
Outside of work what are your interests / hobbies?
I am an avid Harley Davidson owner, enthusiast and member of my local chapter. We regularly have social meetups and ride-outs around the UK and sometimes further afield such Europe and America
Major focus for the remainder of 2020?
Continue to deliver current and future projects on time, budget and to the highest of standards
What’s the top destination on your must-visit list?
Route 66 with my family and friends, riding from Chicago to LA on Harley Davidsons
If you could only eat one item for every meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
A big steak