In James Flower’s words, he “fell into the civil industry”. As a kid, James spent a lot of time around machinery and grew interested in how things worked and operated. This interest grew into a passion once he left school and started a civil traineeship in Australia. James’s passion has since taken him from a digger driver to a senior Contract Manager at Schick Civil.
James is a great example of how a combination of hard work and seizing opportunities can lead to an exciting career pathway. When James started at Schick Civil in 2018, he worked as a Siteworks Foreman, “I was in a bit of a hybrid role as a digger driver and foreman. I got to lead crews from my digger seat!” While he enjoyed this hybrid role, James had aspirations to eventually become a Contract Manager. “I’ve always wanted to be someone who leads from the front and through my actions,” he said.
James’ introduction to contract management was in 2020 when he became the Contract Manager for the Blenheim sewer upgrade project – which at the time, was one of the most complex drainage projects in the country. “I jumped in the deep end. I think I was able to gain respect from the crews because I had the practical knowledge and experience from my time working on-site,” he said.
Looking back, James sees his time spent on this project as one of great growth, “The complexity of the job was challenging. There was massive growth for both me personally and the business over the course of that project. It is rewarding being a part of something that I know will serve the community for years to come.” As a Contract Manager, James continues to learn every day and is forever continuing to grow not only in a professional sense but a personal one too.
As well as the development opportunities like stepping into the Contract Manager role on major projects, it’s the people and strong culture that James loves about working at Schick. “The company values shine through at all levels of the organisation. Hard work and effort are recognised and appreciated.”
If you are interested in joining an organisation that provides opportunities that challenge and grow its people, contact our team today at [email protected]
