In Conversation With…Gary Brannighan, business development manager at Hodgson Sayers.

Gary Brannighan, business development manager at Hodgson Sayers.

Can you tell us about Hodgson Sayers?

Hodgson Sayers started its journey as a roofing contractor, then developed and diversified into construction and civils, metal fabrication, building/estate maintenance and security products and services. As a principal contractor, we are proud to work on all aspects of construction from specialist heritage sites to utility sites and new build. Our award-winning business is underpinned by our core principles of honesty, decency and integrity. 

When was the company established?

We have been established since 1979 and, from the early days, have grown into a multi-disciplined, award-winning organisation, operating in a diverse range of sectors.

What projects is the company currently undertaking?

As we operate in various sectors, there is a lot going on, some highlights are:

• Various roofing contracts in the North East to deliver school refurbishments through to LPCB security doors framework with PD Ports

• Multiple Northern Powergrid works including the building of substations like the primary substation in Seaham

• Midlands, again multiple roofing frameworks for local authorities and housing associations as well as Norfolk Community Health & Care NHS Trust

Which areas of the UK does your company operate within?

We operate across the UK, for example, with Scottish Water we operate across Scotland including the highlands through to the developing works in the Midlands and further south with London and surrounding areas.

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the construction sector?

Like every other business we suffer from ever-fluctuating energy costs, both directly and via our supply chain. Meanwhile, attracting the right talent, people who want to learn, grow and add real value into the sector is always hard. I believe the image of construction can still be seen as manual, dirty, hard work, which it can be, but technology, diversification and modern methods of construction are helping to change the face of construction. We need the next generation to view our sector as an exciting, ever in demand industry, so we gain a passionate set of ‘new eyes’ who will move us forward.

What can be done to bridge the skills gap in the construction sector?

Collaboration is key, we need the sector to jointly speak as one loud, consistent voice. We need to change the misconceptions of construction and with partners like Northern Counties Builders Federation and other great organisations, we can. Getting the right messages about this vibrant sector, to everyone at an early age, is key to the future success of the industry.

You are a member of Northern Counties Builders Federation. How does being aligned to a sector body support Hodgson Sayers?

We have been a member for over 15 years, with the NCBF allowing us to have a collective voice and real input into how the next generation come onboard. The support they do for apprentices and training, leveraging the ever-challenging arena of funding, is fantastic.

What’s your proudest business achievement?

Coming from the construction sector at an early age, my passion is helping others and growing the next generation, which is driven by the good news stories of those I have helped and the changes I have been part of for over 30 years.