Ahead of our new office build, we decided to catch up with the site manager, Paul Donachie, to get his thoughts on the project and life at Lochlie.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Getting to see the transformation of the jobs we do from start to finish. It’s good to stand back and take a look at what we’ve achieved.

Tell us about a normal day as a site manager?

I like to get to the site early to open up. My day can vary quite a bit depending on what construction activities are being carried out. A lot of my time is spent liaising with the different trades, advising them on what needs to be done on that particular day and ensuring they are supervised and working safely.

I induct any new starts and sub-contractors. I then check on materials and determine what needs to be ordered or delivered.

I check my emails and update my calendar to accommodate any meetings or site surveys. I make all my phone calls to suppliers, sub-contractors, my line manager David and my QS who is usually Katie.

I take a walk through the job to make sure everyone is doing what they are supposed to do, working safely and wearing correct PPE.

At the end of the day, I take a walk around to see what has been done and make sure the site is safe before I lock up.

You are the nominated manager for the renovation of our new office, how are you getting on with it?

Not going to lie I’ve got a lot of eyes on me with this project so I’m a bit stressed lol but I like the plans that we have and when people see the end result of the project it will be worth the effort.

What stage are you at?

We’re still at the demolition stage but the new roof is set to be put on in the next couple of weeks then we can start with the interior works and the other external works, cladding etc. I would recommend having a look at the architect’s digital pictures of what it’s going to look like, I think a lot of people are going to be pleasantly surprised.

The question on everyone’s mind… when will it be finished?

September is what we have programmed if all goes to plan, we can get it done.