Name and role: Michael Wynn, Director
Company: Yorkshire Brickwork Contractors (YBC)
Sector: Construction
Describe what your business does?
Yorkshire Brickwork Contractors specialise in providing high-quality brickwork, stonework and blockwork to residential, commercial and industrial projects. We take control of the entire masonry contract of a project, organising other trades around us, quantifying and calling off materials, overseeing quality control and provide frequent supervision of on-site staff.
At YBC, our Health and Safety is a top priority. I make sure all of my operatives and supervisors carry the relevant training skills for every job. Whether this is CSCS, SMSTS, First Aid or IPAF qualifications, this is something that should be taken seriously across the whole construction industry.
How many staff do you employ?
I like to get to know a subcontractor before employing as this allows you to understand the way they work, their work ethic and if their values are similar to my own. When I do, I usually employ around 30 subcontractors. However, due to the increase in projects over the past year, this number is set to double this year.
What does your role entail?
One of my most important roles is to keep all sites running effectively. This includes regular meetings with subcontractors and clients to discuss the plans for the project daily, any access issues, design issues, other general enquiries and review what was completed and finalise aims for the working day.
Another crucial role is to build relationships with our clients as well as looking for potential new clients to work with. Clear communication is key to any relationship, whether it be personal or professional. In the case of construction, communication begins from the very first time you meet with potential clients to discuss any project, so you can bid fairly and accurately, making sure you have a clear understanding of their expectations in regards to the quality right from the start.
I also find it essential to be a supportive manager, lending an ear to those who need it. I work hard to provide support and help others with personal and professional development, not to aim to achieve all goals by myself. Instead, coach a team that can work together to produce the best work possible.
What attracted you to start/operate your business in Huddersfield?
Huddersfield is a very well-connected area in both location and talent.
The location makes it easier to travel around West & South Yorkshire, where most of our work is. Luckily, I live 5 minutes from the office, which is handy, and the gym is also close by. It is refreshing not having to commute and having everything I need in Huddersfield and some.
I’ve always spoken highly of Huddersfield and those that have welcomed me into the networking/business world. There are many great businesses in Huddersfield that work to support each other, and I am incredibly grateful and proud to be one of them.
Name some of your biggest business achievements:
Our most significant achievement would be seeing the size of the projects we work on increasing into considerably larger developments this year.
We have been asked to bid for some charming projects recently, some we have missed out on that we wanted; however, we still take this as a positive. To be thought highly enough to be considered is a significant achievement in itself.
We recently announced that Yorkshire Brickwork Contractors were sponsoring a local rugby club, Almondbury Spartans ARFLC. This has meant a lot to me as the opportunity allows me to give back to the community that has welcomed me and my business with open arms.
What advice would you give to someone looking to set up or relocate their business in Huddersfield?
Huddersfield is excellent, especially with the work Huddersfield Unlimited has done to put it on the map. While networking and working on developments across the country, I have met many people who have heard of Huddersfield becoming a business hub.
This is true. We have varied business clubs and events available for networking and professional development alongside a brilliant University with massive placement opportunities. The town is well connected with transport links for people, so no need to drive to the cities, also the rates are way cheaper than Leeds and Manchester so that can only be a great help for business.
What are your hopes for Huddersfield 10 years from now (2030)?
I am excited about the plans for the town. I love the place and hope it can continue to attract more people.
I would like to see the long-awaited upgrade plans for the town centre and immediate area. I hope to see the carnival return next year; this was such an exciting event with the whole town gathering together to celebrate. And of course, I hope the Giants win the Super League.
On a personal level, what do you love most about the town?
The people of Huddersfield have welcomed me here. I love the abundance of cultures living alongside each other, and the fantastic countryside just 20 minutes in each direction from the town centre.
Where is your favourite place to eat/drink in Huddersfield?
I have a few that I juggle around; I can’t name a favourite. That’s another great thing about Huddersfield. There are so many different delicacies to choose from; Italian, Mediterranean, Turkish, Greek, Indian, Chinese and more.
Are there any recommendations or local knowledge you’d like to share with a visitor?
I would recommend taking the time to explore. There are many different villages with mini highstreets, bars and cafes and you are always only a short distance away from some countryside.
After networking with many people of Huddersfield, I would also recommend their college and university facilities to those applying for higher education – between them all they have won many awards.
Website: www.yorksbc.co.uk
Twitter: @yorksbrickwork
Linkedin: Yorkshire Brickwork Contractors