In a milestone moment for Chester-le-Street-based McCarrick Construction, Melanie Robson and James Brown MCIOB MAPM, both of whom began their careers at the company as apprentices, have been appointed to its board of directors.
The move means 60% of the company’s leadership team is now made up of former apprentices, reflecting a long-standing culture of homegrown talent and a deep-rooted, people-first ethos at the heart of the family-run business.
Melanie and James join fellow directors, Tim Bishop, Tony Pearce and Matthew McCarrick on the company’s executive leadership team.
Melanie, who joined the business in 1999 as a 17-year-old administrative apprentice and was previously the company secretary, has been named accounts and HR director. James, who started as a joinery apprentice in 2004, becomes operations director.
Founded in 1953, McCarrick Construction is a family-run building contractor operating across the North East, delivering high-quality construction and refurbishment for a wide range of sectors including education, commercial, defence, healthcare and bespoke residential.
Its diverse project portfolio includes recent work for clients such as Tyne Coast College, St. Oswald’s Hospice, Middlesbrough College, Shotton Community Youth Hub, Lumley Community Centre, Smulders Projects UK, Newcastle Blood Donation Services, Peterlee Fire Station and a large number of primary and secondary schools from Northumberland to Redcar as well as numerous Territorial Army training centres for the Ministry of Defence.
Managing director, Matthew McCarrick, said: “Melanie and James have been operating at director level for some time now, so it’s fantastic to be able to formally recognise the impact they have been making.
“What makes this especially meaningful is that their journeys from apprenticeships to the Board truly reflect what we stand for as a company — growing talent from within and supporting people to build lasting careers, here. With Tony Pearce, who started as a bricklaying apprentice, already on the board, it means three out of five of our directors came up through apprenticeships. That’s something I’m very proud of. It gives our leadership team a grounded perspective and reinforces the family feel that has always defined the company.”
Now in its 73rd year since incorporation, the company continues to thrive under the leadership of the McCarrick family, with Matthew representing the third generation. The business credits its longevity not just to construction expertise but to its values of loyalty, mentorship and investing in its people for the long term.
Melanie, age 42, from Stanley, who has spent her entire career with the company, said: “Becoming a director feels like the culmination of a journey that began the day I walked through the doors as a teenager, fresh out of school. So much has changed in the company and in the industry since then but what’s remained constant is the supportive culture.
“McCarrick Construction has always felt like a second family to me. I’ve grown professionally here, taken on new challenges and been encouraged every step of the way. When I started, Matthew’s dad, Michael, gave me that first opportunity and I’ll always be grateful for the belief the company placed in me. That belief has fuelled my commitment to driving the business forward.”
James, age 39, from Chester-le-Street, said: “From my first days on site to managing major projects and eventually becoming chartered, every stage of my career has been backed by support and opportunity.
“I’ve never stopped learning and that’s what sets the company apart. We encourage our employees not just to do the job but to grow as individuals. It’s exciting to now be part of shaping the future of the business I’ve grown up in.”
Both directors continue to be supported by the company in their career development, with James currently studying on a senior leadership programme at Durham University. Melanie is completing her CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management, which will qualify her as a Chartered HR professional.