This October, we’re delighted to celebrate Tom Potts’ five years with Morris Property, and his progression from Apprentice Site Manager to Site Manager.
Since joining us, Tom has worked across projects including Stadium Point Business Park and OSG Gobowen, before taking on projects of his own. Along the way he has shown professionalism, commitment and a real passion for developing his skills in construction.
His story is a great example of what an apprenticeship can offer, a strong foundation, hands-on experience and the chance to progress.
What’s been the biggest shift in your day-to-day since becoming a Site Manager?
“I’ve had to become much more confident in making decisions and dealing with problems as they arise, while also understanding when to seek advice or involve other members of the team. There is a lot more responsibility and accountability that comes with being a Site Manager, and I’ve had to develop the confidence to make decisions and take ownership of them. It has been a big step, but it has been rewarding to see the knowledge and experience I’ve gained throughout my apprenticeship put into practice”.
Which aspects of the job do you find most rewarding as a Site Manager?
“I enjoy the problem-solving and the variety of the role. No two days on site are the same, and there are always different challenges that need to be dealt with. I also enjoy the planning and coordination side of the job, particularly organising different trades and making sure everyone knows what is expected of them and when. Seeing the job progress and knowing that you have played a part in making that happen is really rewarding”.
How did you approach stepping into a leadership role with people you’d previously worked alongside?
“I’ve found that the best method is to remain approachable and respectful while being clear about expectations and responsibilities. I don’t think becoming a Site Manager means changing who you are; it’s about earning people’s respect through how you conduct yourself, make decisions and support the team”.
What’s the toughest problem you’ve had to solve as a Site Manager, and how did you tackle it?
“One of the more difficult situations I faced was during my time on the OSG job. Due to the weather conditions, we were delayed in completing the external rendering. This then had a knock-on effect as we couldn’t finish the groundworks, tarmac and fencing around the playground area because we needed access for a cherry picker to reach the high-level areas.
After discussing the situation with the contractors involved, I made the decision to build a scaffold off the flat roof. Although this came at an additional cost it allowed us to complete the high-level rendering without needing the cherry picker, which meant we could continue with the remaining works and avoid delays to the programme which could have had cost implications. It was a good example of having to look at the problem, rather than just focusing on the original delay, and finding a practical solution that allowed the other trades to continue”.
What projects have you been involved in since joining Morris Property and which have you run as Site Manager?
“Throughout my apprenticeship I have had the opportunity to work across several different projects, gaining experience and responsibility as I progressed.
Stadium Point – I worked as an apprentice Site Manager under Pete and Phil, where I gained a multitude of skills from their experience. Towards the end of Zone 1, I was given responsibility for managing the Unit 11 fit-out myself, which gave me my first real insight into what was expected of me as a Site Manager.
OSG Gobowen – I initially went to OSG to assist Dave Fletcher during the final few months of the project. However, when Dave had to take some time off, I had the opportunity to step up and run the job. With the help and support of my Contracts Manager, we completed the school to a high-quality finish, which the client was very impressed with.
Donnington Shopfronts – This was my first job of my own, which involved replacing 13 shopfronts and roller shutters, as well as carrying out remedial works. Although the work was not as major as some of the other projects I have worked on, it gave me a lot of responsibility, particularly around safety and logistics, as the work was carried out in a busy area with much more exposure to the public.
Five years on, Tom’s progression shows what’s possible when ambition is matched with the right opportunities and support. From learning on site as an apprentice to running his own projects, he has built his career one job at a time.
Congratulations, Tom, and thank you for your hard work. We look forward to seeing you continue to grow with us and play a part in delivering for our clients.
