Mike started his career as an articled pupil for Laing Construction over 35 years ago. “That seems a very long time ago,” says Mike, “but I am happy to report that I still thoroughly enjoy what I do. Seeing buildings completed successfully is the most rewarding part of my job. I have a passion for quality – I can’t rest until it is right.”
“I started working on the Chemistry Research Building in 2000 as a commercial manager,” says Mike. “The intention was that I would come to Oxford for six weeks to finalise the details of the contract, but nine years later I still haven’t left!”
October 2009 was a month to remember for Mike. Not only did the Earth Sciences Building top out one week early, to the delight of client, Oxford University, but for the second time round Mike was also named Construction Manager of the Year for his previous work on the university’s Biochemistry building.
“It has been a bit of a whirlwind,” smiles Mike. “But a good whirlwind! Topping out Earth Sciences ahead of schedule was a great achievement for the whole team and I was really proud to celebrate with them. One week later, I was awarded the Construction Manager of the Year Award for the building next door. I was so surprised, and of course, over the moon.”