This August, we celebrate a significant milestone as Conor Roberts marks five years with the business, having successfully advanced from Apprentice Site Manager to Site Manager.
Since joining, Conor has demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism, and a drive to develop his expertise within the construction industry. Having completed his apprenticeship in July 2024, today he is a valued member of the team and has worked on a number of key projects. His journey stands as a powerful testament to the value of apprenticeships and the rewarding career pathways available at Morris Property.
What has been the biggest change transitioning from apprentice to Site Manager?
“Transitioning from shadowing a Site Manager to taking full responsibility for all aspects of a site has been a significant step in my career. From ordering materials and carrying out site and equipment checks to overseeing health and safety, I am now accountable for the day-to-day management of the site.
Avatar Restaurant was probably the biggest step in my development. I was given more ownership of the project and the opportunity to demonstrate that I could manage a job and take responsibility for its delivery for the client. Seeing the project through to completion helped build my confidence and ultimately helped me make the step up into the Site Manager role. While the role is demanding and comes with a great deal of responsibility, it is incredibly rewarding to see projects progress and come to life through the hard work and dedication of the entire team.”
How have you found managing people who were previously your peers?
“Managing the team is straightforward in many ways, as I have built strong working relationships with my colleagues over several years. However, stepping into a leadership role can sometimes present challenges, particularly when balancing professional responsibilities with friendships.
Unit 48 at Centurion Park is a valuable experience for me and has given me the opportunity to take on more responsibility on site, develop my confidence and become more involved in coordinating trades and dealing with the day-to-day challenges of delivering a project – especially with this being my first time constructing a steel frame building.”
Which parts of being a site manager do you enjoy the most?
“Working with people on site is the highlight. I particularly enjoy coordinating and motivating the team, helping to create a positive and productive working environment. A key part of my role is also ensuring programmes and schedules are carefully managed, making sure deadlines align and potential clashes are identified and resolved before they impact the project.”
Tell me about a difficult problem you’ve faced as a site manager. How did you resolve it?
“Maintaining momentum across projects can be challenging, particularly on longer-term developments. Without careful planning and forward thinking, it is easy for progress to fall behind schedule. A key part of the role is staying ahead of programme requirements, planning at least a month in advance to ensure labour, materials and resources are in place to keep projects running smoothly and on track.”
“I’d say the biggest thing I’ve taken from all the projects is how much support I’ve had to help me develop from when I first joined Morris Property as an apprentice. Guidance has mainly come from Contracts Manager, Mark Bennett who mentored me on site at Wem Bungalows, Avatar and Centurion Park, and then Senior Contracts Manager Andy Richards when I worked at Hollinswood House and YMCA, Stoke, which was my first large job as an apprentice.”
Reflecting on his career progression so far, his story highlights how dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn can create rewarding opportunities within the construction industry. As he continues to build his experience as a Site Manager, he looks forward to taking on new challenges and playing a key role in delivering successful projects for us and our clients.
