The next in our new series of blogs about the people in our business – find out about how we work and what makes us tick, and learn more about the talent behind Bowles & Wyer.
A day in the life of… Dene Hakner.
What’s your job role at Bowles & Wyer?
Contracts Manager
How long have you been working here?
3 and a half years
What time did you get up this morning?
5:15am – early starts to make sure I’m on site for the start of the work day.
What did you have for breakfast?
I generally don’t, just a cup of tea when I get up, and then I’ll grab a sandwich at some point in the morning.
What was the first thing you did when you got to the office or site this morning?
Stopped off at a supplier for some materials and then briefed the guys on the plan for the day on site.
What does your work day typically consist of?
My workload can be extremely varied, there’s definitely no typical day. Essentially my role is to make sure that the construction teams have the tools, machinery, information, labour and motivation to do their jobs. I also oversee the day to day financial control, health & safety, client liaison and reporting on all projects I’m looking after. I’m usually out on the road trying to visit the sites as much as possible, with my trusty tablet and laptop keeping me in touch with the office and directors. As such, I can work with a huge variety of people in a single day; from our own staff, to subcontractors, suppliers, consultants, architects, designers and contractors. Usually looking after 3-4 projects at a time, the location of these dictate my daily activities. Sometimes they’re all within a small area of London, sometimes out in the suburbs or wider afield, or both – it really is very fluid.
What’s your favourite part of your job?
I like the mobility of the position – having the ability to see each stage of construction means I can keep a close eye on things and capture issues early on, whilst of course seeing the spaces develop into beautiful places to be.
What’s your least favourite element of your job?
The M25!
What’s your favourite snack in the office or on site?
I’m known to like a prawn mayo sandwich…
How do you spend a typical evening after work?
My wife goes out to work most evenings as I get home, so the bulk of my time is spent keeping my two young children entertained! When I do have time, I get out in the garden or out on the mountain bike or go for a run. I also enjoy cooking and make all of our meals from scratch!
October 28, 2019
