Young Project Manager oversees new retail facility

Tom Lowe, aged 18, joined Sewell Construction fresh from secondary school and has been gaining plentiful experience to prepare him for this big milestone over the last two years.

With support from his senior colleagues, Tom has now project managed his first scheme; a 12 week major reconfiguration of two commercial units, on behalf of property agent Workman, ready for Wren Living to move onto the retail park.

Tom explained that setting the tone from the outset has been imperative said:

“I was a little nervous at first but I knew I’d have all the support I needed from the team. A good induction was critical; I made sure every site operative knew the Sewell standards and what I was expecting.”

Along with managing the site operatives, Tom has been responsible for ordering materials, health and safety management and liaising with the site’s neighbours.

“I’ve had the opportunity to oversee lots of different types of construction. We’ve basically gutted the two previous units and then prepared the space for the shop fit out. We’ve dug new piles for the mezzanine floor, dug escalator pits and decorated the steelwork. We’ve also replaced the frontage of the units with new glazing and shutters.

“It’s been a fantastic experience, I’ve really enjoyed getting stuck in.”

Paul Sewell, Managing Director said:

“Age is irrelevant if you’ve got the talent and commitment to deliver in business. We have always put a lot of effort into developing our next generation of business leaders. You’ve got to give top performers the opportunity to shine and I’m pleased to say that Tom really has.”

Sewell has also announced it will be taking on another 10 management trainees this year, in a variety of business disciplines. Paul continued:

“We’ve been around for 140 years and to continue to do well we’ll continue to invest in our systems, processes and most importantly our people. With new talent comes fresh thinking and pace. We then nurture that talent to do business the ‘Sewell’ way, by delivering on promises for our customers, with the right attitude and behaviours.”