After leaving a successful career in South Africa, 48-year-old Johan Sadler, has rebuilt his career from the ground up in the UK, thanks to the training and support provided by Newcastle-based, True North Construction.
Since joining the company in 2024, Johan has completed a Level 2 NVQ in Construction Operations, earned his dumper truck licence and is to start Level 3 training to qualify him in a site supervisor role.
Founded in 2019, True North Construction has earned a strong reputation for delivering bespoke residential builds, high-end refurbishments and certified Passivhaus homes. Its reputation for quality, sustainability and attention to detail has helped drive expansion into new commercial sectors, including hospitality, healthcare, education and workplace fit-outs
Originally from Petersburgh in South Africa’s Northern Province, Johan spent many years working as a site manager, overseeing construction projects and leading teams. In December 2023, he made the life-changing decision to move to Howden, in Newcastle, with his wife, Tracy, a recruitment specialist. The move came after the passing of Johan’s parents and a desire to be closer to Tracy’s family in the North East.
Though Johan arrived with considerable experience, he quickly discovered that working in the UK construction industry required meeting new standards and certifications. A major challenge was obtaining his CSCS card – the Construction Skills Certification Scheme card that proves workers have the necessary health and safety training to operate on UK building sites. Without this card, it’s difficult for any construction professional to find work.
Johan, said: “Getting the CSCS card was the first hurdle. Even with my years of experience as a site manager back home, I wasn’t able to start working here until I had it. Once obtained, I posted my CV on LinkedIn and hoped someone would notice.”
David Roberts, director at True North Construction, saw Johan’s profile and reached out to him. In May 2024, Johan joined the company as a labourer.
Johan, said: “Even though I’d managed construction sites before, the systems and regulations here are different.
“Thankfully, David and the team believed in me and continue to invest in my development. What I like most about the company is that they’re human. I’m not just a number; they genuinely care about their employees and want us to succeed and progress.”
David Roberts, director, True North Construction, said: “Johan had the right experience and the right attitude from day one. We recognised his skills and potential immediately but understood there was a gap between his South African qualifications and the UK construction standards.
“Our role has been to support him through that transition by providing ongoing, tailored training and practical opportunities to build up his qualifications so he can get back to working as a site manager.
“At True North Construction, we’re committed to investing in people who want to grow and develop their careers. It’s not just about filling roles, it’s about building a team that’s skilled, motivated and ready to meet the future challenges of the industry.”