Carl Sturman is a regional operations manager within the Anglian Water integrated metering and developer services (IMDS) alliance and has worked at Kier for 11 years.
What did your career look like before Kier, and why did you join?
"I had worked within the construction industry before joining Kier and had also briefly worked in customer service, which actually led me into my first role with Kier as a customer liaison officer.
"This role gave me a fantastic foundation to build on and led to several new opportunities, including working on a carbon reduction project, lead replacement schemes, metering projects, water main laying and service laying delivery routes.
"Kier was fantastic and supported my development, providing all the training I needed to advance. It's clear that employees and their progression are valued so highly at Kier.
"I joined Kier because I was aware of its great reputation in the industry and its work to support its employees' progression and development. Not only this, but Kier's work on sustainability was also a key factor."
What does a typical day look like for you?
"A typical day in my role consists of developing a strategy that addresses the issues our people face while trying to perform their role and achieve our overall business goals. I firmly believe in creating an environment for success and supporting my team to be the best they can be."
What's the biggest challenge in your role?
"The biggest challenge in my role so far resulted from the pandemic and its restrictions on working life. Working from home has brought a new aspect to my role. Kier has a fantastic attitude to agile working, making things easier. While home-working has benefits, the days we can get together as a team in a face-to-face environment cannot be undervalued."
What do you enjoy most about your job?
"The best thing about my job is the support and trust I've had from my managers during my time here. Knowing that I’m trusted to do the right thing and supported when unsure about something has allowed me to succeed and flourish.
"Kier rewards hard work and ambition with plenty of support and training to enable employees to reach their potential – it's a place where people at all stages of their career can succeed, whether as an apprentice or someone who comes in at a more senior level."
What advice would you give to anyone looking to join the industry?
"If you're prepared to work hard and give your all to succeed, there are many opportunities at Kier."
