We spoke with Stephen Harnett, Senior Operations Manager at Willmott Dixon, after his Pride in the Job 2024 win in the multi-storey builder category. He shared his delight at winning a Supreme Award and told us about his career in construction.
Building a career
With more than 40 years in the wider construction industry, nine of which have been in house building, Stephen has enjoyed a varied career working on complex and challenging projects, including infrastructure, leisure developments and retirement villages.
From a young age Stephen enjoyed making things and helping his father with DIY around the home. He began his career as a carpenter and joiner before moving to managerial roles at Willmott Dixon. He has been with this company for 23 years, undertaking various roles including Project Manager, Construction Manager, Operations Manager and most recently Senior Operations Manager.
Putting people first
We asked Stephen what he likes most about the industry. He told us that for him, after the pride he feels seeing a finished project, it is the people he gets to work with. He stressed the importance of collaboration and communication in order to achieve a shared goal.
Stephen added “I enjoy building high performing teams where everyone can contribute and play their part while personally learning and developing. I think if you want to get the best out of people you have to support them. It is so important to listen to our supply chain partners and value their expertise. It is also essential to welcome new people to the industry because they bring new ideas and perspectives.”
Built to last
Stephen shared how rewarding he found knowing that something you have been involved in building will be there for years to come, providing homes or services that people need. Through a relentless focus on quality and adopting the companies’ thoughtful approach to the impact of projects, he has been able to deliver an award-winning development.
He explained “At Willmott Dixon we have a Now or Never strategy that takes accountability of the impact the built environment has on communities around it and the natural environment. Our long-term vision for the built environment continues to push me to continuously learn new ways of designing, constructing and running buildings sustainably. I get a real buzz from being able to keep making improvements, to build better and the challenge that creates on every new project.”
Winning at Pride in the Job
Despite three nominations for Construction Manager of the Year, Stephen was surprised to find out he been nominated for Pride in the Job. After winning again for Seal of Excellence and Regional he genuinely did not expect to win at the Supreme Awards in January.
Stephen said “I am immensely proud to have won. It came as a shock to me, but I am truly delighted! It very much felt like a ‘pat on the back’ and an acknowledgement of the whole team’s hard work. I could not have done it without them, my team were always willing to go the extra mile to deliver the very best quality project we could, as well as having a lot of fun along the way. I would also thank my wife, my best friend who has supported me throughout my career.”
Looking ahead
We asked Stephen what was next for him. His next project is currently in pre-construction. It will be 112 new homes for Hounslow Borough Council. This is due to begin construction in 2026 and is planned for completion in 2029.
Stephen is also pleased to be sharing his expertise and experience of the Pride in the Job process with others in the business via a webinar.
He said “I am happy to have the opportunity to share my experience and promote this quality-focussed way of working. My win is a reinforcement to drive for even better standards, to innovate and for everyone to keep learning new ways of doing things. I would be overjoyed to win again on another project but equally I would love to see others at Willmott Dixon win!”
