Delwyn Phoenix, managing director at M J Phoenix & Son Ltd
1. Can you tell us about M J Phoenix & Son Ltd and your role?
M J Phoenix & Son is a SME Building Contractor working primarily in the commercial sector mainly on refurbishment contracts ranging in value from £20K – £1.5 million.
My role is to oversee all areas of the business but primarily the contracts and estimating departments. I have stepped back somewhat recently and reduced certain duties as my son, Calum, increases his role in those departments.
2. What projects is the company currently undertaking?
We are currently carrying out refurbishment contracts on local office, industrial and educational buildings. Working with architects, property consultants, building surveyors and estates departments.
3. What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the construction sector?
The biggest challenge we are continuing to face is the lack of ‘skilled’ labour and that of young people who want to work in the construction industry.
4. What can be done to bridge the skills gap in the construction sector?
I wish I had the answer but we need to do everything we can to continue to encourage, train and retain skilled Labour.
5. You are a member of Northern Counties Builders Federation. How does being aligned to a sector body support M J Phoenix & Son Ltd?
Being an SME company within NCBF you know you are part of a professional organisation who will provide our company with help and support and a ‘professional voice’ when engaging with other organisations and influential people/ bodies in order to improve SME rights within our Industry.
6. What’s your proudest business achievement?
My proudest business achievement is that M J Phoenix & Son Ltd still remains a reputable and highly regarded family building contractor, recommended throughout the North East.
7. Is there a mantra you always aspire to do business by?
Whether an employee, subcontractor, supplier or a client – ‘always treat them as you would like to be treated’.
