Job Title:
Senior Quantity Surveyor
Start Date:
April 2018
Nathan Dawson joined Taylor and Fraser as an Electrical Estimator in April 2018, and has risen the ranks within the company to become a Senior Quantity Surveyor. We caught up with Nathan to learn more about his role and his experiences working with Taylor and Fraser.
What was your starting role at Taylor and Fraser?
I began working with Taylor and Fraser as an Electrical Estimator. I’m a time-served Electrician, having completed my apprenticeship before joining Taylor and Fraser. I was an Estimator for around two years; then, I responded to an opening in the QS department. At that time, Ian Nairn, now Taylor and Fraser’s Commercial Director, worked in the QS department and was looking for assistance.
I saw this as a good career opportunity and was fortunate that Taylor and Fraser were willing to support me with internal training and studying for the relevant degree and qualifications.
Can you give us a brief description of your current role?
It’s a real mixed bag, which keeps it interesting. I am responsible for taking over from the Estimators on live projects and setting out budgets for projects, working closely with the planning and the delivery teams. I’m also responsible for reporting to the management team on how projects are performing against the budget. I also manage subcontractor accounts and payments, and I perform occasional credit control tasks as needed. The role encompasses a range of different elements that provide daily variety.
What aspects of your role do you particularly like?
No two days are the same! There is a vast spectrum of work involved in my role, but with the wide range of projects, it means every day is different. One day, I can be working closely with a sub-contractor on a fairly small project, the next, I’m on the site of one of our large projects. It is amazing how much the job differs each day!
Do you find the company supportive in terms of personal development?
Definitely. I have benefited firsthand from the support of Taylor and Fraser, which has given me the opportunity to upskill to a QS. Therefore, they have always been keen on developing their team members. However, I’ve seen the focus intensify since we’ve become part of Suir Engineering; they are particularly keen on personal development and investment in their people, actively encourage people to expand their horizons with in-house training, external courses, and eLearning opportunities. I’ve really seen a difference in the level of investment in people over the last year.
What do you like about working with Taylor and Fraser?
Although we are part of a much bigger organisation now, I feel Taylor and Fraser has retained its family business feel. It’s a really tight-knit community in the office, and I think much of that is due to staff retention; people tend to come and stay, resulting in real continuity and a great spirit.
Of course, the working environment has changed dramatically over the past year with the refurbishment of the Paisley office; it has been transformed into a bright, modern working environment, that’s made a big difference!
What do you do outside of work?
I like to exercise, either by running or playing football. Nowadays, I’m focused on 5-a-side rather than 11-a-side; I also occasionally participate in a half-marathon. I occasionally attend football matches, and there’s a great mix of supporters in the office, so the chat is always lively. Unfortunately, I can’t claim to be a St Mirren fan, but those in the office who are are really enjoying the lead-up to the Scottish League Cup Final. However, I’m hopeful that I’ll regain some bragging rights in the future!
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Just to say that it is a genuinely exciting time to be at Taylor and Fraser, becoming part of Suir Engineering presents so many great opportunities, both in the range of work and the sizes of the projects they are targeting. They are an ambitious company that rewards individuals who are ambitious, keen to learn, and eager to develop. I’m very positive about the future.
Nathan is a great example of someone who thrives in an environment where he feels supported and is given the tools to succeed. He appreciated the training he’s already received, and he knows he can count on Taylor and Fraser to support him in achieving his long-term goals. Thank you, Nathan, for your time and your commitment to the business.
