Site Manager shines with pride at award win

With a second top industry award to his name, Jonathan Jewell is a shining example of how attention to detail and a commitment to quality sets Redrow homes apart.

Jonathan, who oversees construction at Millstone View in Penymynydd, is one of 21 of our site managers recognised in the NHBC Pride in the Job Awards 2020, receiving a “Quality” Award for his efforts.

Marking its 40th year, Pride in the Job celebrates the exceptional contribution site managers make in creating homes of outstanding quality.

Jonathan joined us in 2015 and took over the running of the Millstone View development last summer, when the show homes were still under construction. About 23 of the properties are now occupied.

“Redrow as a company sets extremely high standards and it can be somewhat stressful building the single most expensive thing most people will ever buy,” Jonathan said.
 

“It’s important to support the team, not just with the practicalities of their work but with their health, safety and well-being too. Redrow is a big supporter of the construction industry’s Building Mental Health campaign and we’ve been keen to get behind it on site too, encouraging the team to take time out to talk about something other than work.”

With more than 11,000 managers in the running for the awards, this year’s 450 Pride in the Job winners have been hand-picked for their excellent standards on site and represent just 4% of those who entered.

Jonathan added: “You get an unbelievable sense of pride when you hand the keys over to the customer, and with so much competition in the new build sector, you have to really respect that they have chosen to buy here, on your development, and in return, it’s our duty to make sure that we build their home to the best of our ability, so that we give them a house that they can be proud of.”

Jonathan’s career in construction began when his parents encouraged him to take on an apprenticeship rather than join the RAF. Three years later he qualified as a joiner and then after four years of night school he gained his management qualifications. Jonathan became a site manager in 2008 and won his first Pride in the Job “Quality” Award in 2011.

“There was a power cut during the 2011 award ceremony which meant the day was cut short,” Jonathan, 41, from Liverpool, recalled. “Nine years later and I’ve been recognised for another award, but it's likely that there won’t be an award ceremony this year because of the Coronavirus!”

Typically, Jonathan is responsible for overseeing around 80 people working on site each day. This has recently been reduced due to social distancing measures introduced by us to ensure the safety of customers and colleagues.

“The award is recognition for the hard work of everyone on site every day,” Jonathan added.

“I like to lead by example. People see you making an effort to have a clean and tidy site and it encourages them to keep it that way too.”

Andrew Craig, construction director for our North West and North Wales division, said: “This award is testament to the exceptional standards maintained by Jonathan and his team on site. We’re so proud of Jonathan gaining the Quality award and wish him luck for the next stage of the competition.”

Commenting on the awards, NHBC Chief Executive Steve Wood said: “Pride in the Job has been pivotal in improving the quality of new homes so it’s fantastic to be able to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Despite the numerous challenges the industry has faced in recent times, the very best site managers of 2020 have kept their focus on delivering high quality new homes for their customers.”

Following the announcement of the first-round winners, all successful site managers go on to compete for a Seal of Excellence and a Regional Award in their respective categories, subject to judges being able to undertake site visits. The next stage of winners will be announced at virtual ceremonies in the autumn.

Located midway between Chester, Wrexham and Mold, Millstone View will eventually feature 186 new homes, including 27 affordable properties. Find out more about the homes being built under Jonathan’s supervision via www.redrow.co.uk/millstoneview or by calling 01244 432832.