James Dickinson - Director/Project Manager at Gosforth based JW Dickinson Ltd.
Did you always envisage a career working in and around the Built Environment?
Yes I did. My father Brian worked in construction and from a young age I was always interested in what he did and loved to go to jobs with him. After leaving school I joined his business, initially as an apprentice joiner and stayed for 12 years gaining tremendous experience along the way.
When I turned 29 I decided I wanted to challenge myself, become a master of my own destiny and start a business on my own. From there my company JW Dickinson was born.
Tell us about the services you offer.
We are a residential building company who work extensively throughout Gosforth,Jesmond,Whitley Bay,Tynemouth and Ponteland. Whether you’re looking for house extensions, loft conversions, home refurbishments or a similar service, we offer complete building solutions from the initial design consultation all the way through to completion.
Tell us about your team.
We currently have a team of eight all of whom bring a wealth of experience and perform a first class job. We pride ourselves on being friendly, polite and courteous.
What are you currently working on and how do you source your work?
We have a number of things ongoing at the moment including a large renovation project in West Moor, a sizeable house extension in Jesmond and an exciting development on Forth Banks on the Quayside.In addition we have a number of smaller kitchen and bathroom jobs underway. The variety of the work we undertake means every day is different.
We are fortunate to get a lot of assignments via word of mouth through family and friends and architects we link in with. We are also members of the Federation of Master Builders.
What is your proudest career achievement?
Very difficult to pinpoint one but the general standard of our work gives me immense satisfaction, we can make a huge difference to peoples lives. I am also very proud of those people who have started their career with us as apprentices and then forged successful careers within the building industry.
What is your favourite building in the North East?
Undoubtedly Cragside near Rothbury which I believe was the first house in the world lit using hydroelectric power. I absolutely love the story of the Armstrong family. It is an absolutely amazing building and I love to visit when possible.
How would you like to see the business evolve in the next 10 years?
I would like to look at more commercial work and am keen to move into housebuilding. Most importantly I want to retain a high level of service.
Who are your Heroes and Mentors?
My Dad and my Grandad, both of whom have had a great influence on my life.
Who would be your four ideal dinner guests, alive or dead?
Ricky Gervais – simply hilarious and a comic genius.
Will Ferrell – Anchorman is my favourite comedy film and you cant get through Christmas without watching Elf.
John Lennon – a very interesting guy and a music legend.
Nelson Mandela – an inspirational figure. I must make time to read his book “The Long Walk to Freedom.”
How do you like to unwind?
To get away with my wife, family and friends. I also love walks with the dog and playing golf. I’m currently playing off a 16 handicap and hoping to improve going forward.
Favourite Boxset?
Band of Brothers. A gripping series which gives us an understanding on how lucky we are and how much we owe to those who served in the War.
Favourite Book?
Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts. A really good read and a proper page turner.
For more information visit the website
www.jwdickinsonltd.co.uk
