Tuesday, 1st May 2012
Martin Botha
Our dedicated health and safety manager
Having served nine years as logistics manager at Elliott Thomas, Martin Botha has recently joined Rock as our new health and safety manager.“At Elliott Thomas I was involved in every aspect of managing site logistics to ensure an efficient and safe environment for all those working on site,” says Martin. “My new role will see me drive a cultural change throughout Rock in our bid to achieve Zero Harm by 2015.
“Traditionally, our industry’s approach to safety has been based on management-led observations, feedback and goal setting. But I believe that lasting behavioural change requires modification of contributors to unsafe behaviour, reinforcement of safer practices, and inclusion of strategies thatsustain change over time. In this respect, getting the workforce on board is essential. I shall be conducting a one-to-one interview with all operatives at our new training facility in Elstow, accompanied by a 45 minute presentation and questionnaire that will reveal to me their current mindset.
“These will be the first steps to greater workforce engagement, so that it becomes second nature for people to rethink the decisions they make each day which influence the health and safety of themselves and others. Rock will be putting behavioural change into practice and will actively encourageour industry partners to follow suit.”
Tuesday, 1st May 2012
Mark Collinge
Rock’s new senior surveyor
Rock’s current phase of carefully planned growth has only underscored how critical it is to deliver fully on contracts. It was for this reason that in November 2011 we recruited Mark Collinge as senior surveyor. Until then, one of Rock’s longest standing professionals, Chris Brereton, had taken soleresponsibility for quantity surveying. In line with Rock’s increasingly diverse portfolio, Mark has established our commercial department and recruited five full-time surveyors from the market. Before joining us he was a senior surveyor at Lakesmere, the national building envelope specialist involved on projects as large as Heathrow Terminal 2.
“Rock is gearing up for around £30m turnover this year in contract roofing and commercial business,” Mark revealed, “so in the last few months I have appointed a team who will focus on our expanding commercial contracts. I am based both in London and Birmingham and favour a very hands-on approach to my work. With our new team of quantity surveyors Rock is better equipped to keep a close eye on project finances and contractual relationships while continuing to provide clients with genuine value for money.”
Tuesday, 1st May 2012
On course for higher standards
Friday, 23rd March 2012
A model of its kind
Rock embraces BIM strategy
Rock welcomes this government strategy and now plans to adopt it for ourselves. Better quality information at the start will allow a building to run more efficiently for years to come, enhancing the project's long-term investment potential. Aligning our internal processes to support BIM offers Rock’s clients the advantage of a 3D digital model of the building elements we deliver to ensure that all design interfaces are robust. By reducing the whole life costs of a building through 3D modelling, Rock seeks to add even greater value to any given project.
Friday, 23rd March 2012
Have it in black and white
Rock’s work to be underwritten by AWM
In a market proposition unique to Rock, we are partnering Auditing Workmanship& Materials Ltd (AWM) to offer our clients a warranty on our roofing materials and installation.
Any area of construction can suffer defects due to poor workmanship, imperfect materials, flaws in the original design or failure to comply with building regulations. While this is as true of the roof slab as any other element, Rock is able to point to a track record where such a scenario is either extremely rare or unknown. Main contractors have come to place complete trust in our unrivalled professionalism, which is why such a high proportion of our work is through repeat business.
We appreciate, however, that total peace of mind is a precious commodity for any client. While we believe that Rock will still be in business for many decades to come, there’s little doubt that clients enjoy the kind of assurance you get when a job is underwritten by an insurance company. Post-installation, AWM will retain a relationship with our client so that, should any issues relating to Rock’s work be encountered, AWM can be called on to swiftly remedy the situation. The warranty covers all materials and labour, and extends for 25 years on all Rock’s waterproofing and green roof systems. For our clients, the result is greater project security at minimal cost – a further example of Rock’s commitment to service.
Friday, 23rd March 2012
Eyes on the prize
Rock is Construction News Awards 2012 finalist
The Oscars may boast more glitz, and the BRITs may grab more headlines. But in our line of work, the Construction News Awards remains the biggest show in town. Which is why we are extremely pleased to announce that Rock has been named a finalist in the Specialist Contractor category in the Construction News Awards 2012.
These illustrious awards are a source of great prestige for any successful recipient. Becoming a finalist in this category is quite an achievement in itself, as each year sees many outstanding submissions from specialist contractors who are recognised leaders in their particular field. Rock clearly impressed the Awards panel, comprised of a number of renowned figures in the world of construction. Our submission detailed the transformation of our business, in part by driving innovation to create value, which has led to Rock becoming the first choice specialist roofing contractor for some of the biggest names in the industry.
The next stage will see us engage with the Construction News Awards judges in what will be a very rigorous face-to-face interview. It may seem daunting, but we are confident that our submission team will make a powerful and well-argued case for Rock. The winners will be announced on Tuesday 10 July at the Grosvenor House Hotel on London's Park Lane. Here’s hoping that Rock will discomfit our fellow nominees by taking home a little new silverware. If so, we’re sure to give it pride of place.
Thursday, 8th March 2012
New Rock faces
Although the prolonged economic downturn has seen many in our industry struggle, Rock has continued to steadily grow. Importantly, this has been controlled growth, made possible by the careful reengineering of our business over the last three years. To meet our vision for future growth we are currently in the phase of expanding our team of professionals and have, in recent months, recruited 20 new full-time staff across the UK– a combination of young graduates and experienced site managers.
Since becoming managing director of Rock, John Walsh and his board level colleagues have focused on building Rock into an organisation which will support the kind of growth we are currently experiencing.“To prepare Rock for what might come,” John explains, “we implemented a strategic planning process which would ensure sustained and controlled growth. Effective monitoring, analysis and shrewd decision-making are all key, and have helped us recognise that this is the right moment to bring a significant number of fresh, highly qualified staff on board. I am very much looking forward to working with all of Rock’s new people across the UK.”
Thursday, 8th March 2012
Kingspan joint initiative
Rock is scrupulous in implementing our comprehensive site waste management plan. Not only have we significantly reduced the quantity of waste material on site, but of the modicum of waste that is inevitably generated, 94% is recycled. Impressive as this figure is, there’ll be no rest until we meet our stated target of zero waste to landfill by 20 December 2012.
Now we come a step closer to realising this ambition, through our close involvement with education sector schemes in Birmingham, the site of the UK’s largest urban Building Schools for the Future project. There we have been able to take advantage of a service launched by our partner Kingspan Insulation, who will take back waste insulation materials and associated packaging from construction sites. As it is largely insulation board and paneloffcuts which have proved an obstacle for Rock in achieving zero waste, Kingspan’s initiative is very welcome.
Undamaged insulation boards are earmarked for reuse, while the remainder are broken down into their constituent parts to manufacture new boards or are transformed into packaging materials. While Rock continue to work on the Birmingham schools programme, our partnership with Kingspan is helping make each project that much more sustainable.
Thursday, 8th March 2012
Net Gains
Rock sponsors netball team
We can’t claim that fans of Formula One are likely to see a car bearing the Rock logo tearing round the streets of Monaco. And it may be some time before a Premier League squad has a home ground called the Rock Stadium. But as we do have a competitive streak, we are very proud to sponsor a group of dedicated sportswomen out on the netball court. So let’s hear it for Team Rock!
Team Rock plays in the Reading& District Netball League (RDNL) and the Berkshire Premier League. What they lack in newspaper headlines and huge transfer fees they more than make up for in passion, drive and team spirit– everything, in fact, that makes the game worth playing.
Last year Team Rock were runners-up at the national open tournament held annually in Bream Sands, and were promoted from Berkshire premier league Division 2 to Division 1.“We were also the winners of a recent tournament organised by the Army,” team member Elaine Harris told us, “beating the Army A, B and C teams made up of personnel who had flown in from as far as Germany and Cyprus for the occasion.”
Since October 2011 the ladies have been sporting their new black and white Team Rock kit, emblazoned with the Rock logo. But has it helped their form on the court?“We are currently sitting in fourth place in both the Reading and the Berkshire leagues,” revealed Elaine. “We love the new kit, and Rock’s support has given us a real boost. We’re driving for a strong finish to the season because, as always, top of the table is our ultimate goal.”
We wish Team Rock all the best. More details can be found by following thislink.
Thursday, 8th March 2012
Extending Rock’s reach throughout Scotland
John McGreavey
In January 2012 Rock appointed John McGrevey as its business development manager in Scotland to help maximise opportunities in the north of the UK. A respected industry figure in Scotland, John held the position of senior contract manager at W F Price Roofing before joining Grainger Building Services Ltd. His many years as Grainger’s contract director saw him gain vast experience and an excellent reputation on projects throughout Scotland, Ireland and the north of England. Based in Cambuslang, just southeast of Glasgow, John’s current mission is to bring Rock’s waterproofing technology and renewable energy systems to alarger UK market.
“In Scotland we are focussing on winning contracts that cover all aspects of cladding and roof finishes,” says John. “The pace is already quickening, and while looking after the contracting side I’ve found myself involved in every area, which can include producing site sketches. Establishinga firm foothold, where we are competing against more established contractors in this region, is the kind of challenge I relish. Already we have had considerable success in the education sector, with two significant projects for Miller Construction that include the Garthdee campus masterplan for Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen. With the skill, experience and quality of service that we are known for, I see no reason why Rock cannot become the market leader here that it already is further south.”
To contact John McGrevey, please call 020 8956 2473 or email jmcgrevey@wearerock.co.uk
Friday, 13th January 2012
Bridging the skills gap with Rock’s apprentice programme
Rock’s apprentice programme is central to our strategy for future growth. On the one hand, it ensures that the skills of our workforce are renewed and extended for many years to come. On the other, it helps raise standards in general throughout our industry, and demonstrates our willingness to creating employment opportunities in areas neighbouring many of our projects.
Rock has been closely involved on a number of schemes in the West Midlands in partnership with Lend Lease, and in the London Borough of Southwark with Mace and Costain. The local authorities in each have specified the use of local labour and apprentices in their respective areas– an initiative which Rock fully supports. To this end, we have taken on two new apprentices, one from Birmingham and one from Southwark, to support them as they study at Hackney Community College for a Mastic Asphalt NVQ Level 2.
Hackney Community College is, in fact, the only further education institution in the country that offers this traditional skill. Hayden Vigers, our apprentice from Birmingham, told us,“The facilities are excellent, with a specialist workshop and all the equipment we need to master what is a highly skilled trade. The staff have been great too, as they’re friendly and helpful and clearly very experienced. I’ve also really enjoyed working with the team at Rock, and look forward to applying my new mastic asphalt skills to a variety of projects, especially those that involve regeneration.”
Friday, 13th January 2012
Rock provides case study for co2balance
At Rock, we help building owners and developers reduce and mitigate their contributions to climate change through more intelligent use of roof areas. Green roofs and renewable technology incorporated into the design of roofs can play an important role in helping buildings significantly reduce any negative impact on the environment.
Established in 2003, co2balance is an organisation which offers carbon footprint calculation, carbon management and reduction services and an ethical way to offset greenhouse gas emissions through Gold Standard energy efficiency projects. Rock spoke to co2balance about our own environmental programme and the ways in which we are meeting the demand from those customers wishing to embrace the CarbonZero agenda.
To read the article, please clickhere, where you will find a piece titled‘Rock’ among those listed.
Friday, 13th January 2012
The Shard
The Shard is without doubt the capital’s most anticipated and, quite literally, high profile building. In September 2011 a final crane, the tallest ever assembled in Britain, rose 317 metres above ground level to complete the top 23 floors.
Rock has been responsible for waterproofing the Shard and for providing temporary waterproofing to protect it throughout construction. But our involvement doesn’t end there. As the final pinnacle, named ‘the spire’, takes shape, Rock has been contracted to dry line the lift shaft by installing Firestop plasterboard. This product is a gypsum board specially formulated with glass fibre and other additives to provide superior fire resistance, guaranteeing an effective fire barrier for at least one hour. Superior waterproofing and protection from fire are clearly essential features of the Shard’s overall design. We are delighted that Rock’s excellent working relationship with Mace has resulted in our close association with such an inspiring andground-breaking project.
Although the Shard will have a viewing gallery, stunning night-time vistas from the 35th floor can already be enjoyed thanks to professional panoramic photographer Will Pearson. Go towillpearson.co.ukand follow the link to the photographer’s blog.
Monday, 14th November 2011
Greening up the face of construction
ROCK, a long standing client for co2balance, talk about their commitment to put the environment at the heart of their business.
Rock, the UK market leader for over 40 years in mastic asphalt and building waterproof technologies is continuing to redefine its relationship with the market.
Rock have expanded their supply and contractual services from traditional roofing products to the provision of high tech“Green Roofs” and even “Green Wall” systems. Rock was in fact responsible for the construction of the largest Green Roof in the capital at Canon Street. The green roof system is so advanced it has allowed architects, specifiers and other clients to realise concepts which up to now have simply not been achievable. However Green Products are just a part of the Environmental story for Rock.
A strategic approach to environmental efficiency
Green Roofing systems are just part of what Rock does as the specialist waterproofing suppliers for the construction industry. However this is not as simple as a new product category or brand extension, it reflects an acceleration of Rock’s intention to become the supplier of choice with regard to environmental efficiency. Rock has recently introduced a Zero Waste program, the key element of which is product manufacture off site, making only the quantities needed for each job. Combined with efforts to return surplus stock to storefor reuse and applying pressure on their supply chain to improve performance, Rock expects to meet its market leading Zero Waste target by 2015. The recent introduction of a new regionally based management and quality assurance structure, has significantly reduced business mileage within the group,lowered operating costs and improved standards by localising expertise where it’s needed, closest to the customer.
To further support their extensive environmental program Rock have teamed up with UK carbon experts co2balance, to measure and offset their remaining carbon footprint of their UK operations, including all power and utilities for both office and production sites. The offset program effectively delivers CarbonZero products and services to Rock’s customers. The carbon offset is achieved by investing in verified emission reduction programmes that deliver clean technology in the developing world.
Michael Sharkey business development director for Rock comments“At Rock we are pushing improvements across the group to deliver what our customers are demanding. Innovation in construction expertise and experience, together with the latest most environmentally efficient designs and systems in our part of the construction process.” The approach Rock has taken reflects best practice that co2balance promote to all of their customers; Carbon offsetting as a strategic part in companywide environmental initiatives.
About co2balance UK Ltd
Established in 2003, co2balance UK Ltd is a leading UK based, carbon management provider offering carbon calculation, management and reduction services to leading blue chip companies including, BSkyS, Toshiba Europe, Gaz De France, Fiat and Flybe, As a project developer, co2balance UK Ltd creates African Gold Standard and CDM projects that focus on social, health and community benefits to the families within the project area, in addition to carbon savings.
To find out more about about CarbonZero projects please contact CarbonZero at co2balance UK Ltd. 1 Discovery House, Cook Way, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 6BL. Telephone: 01823 332233. Website: www.co2balance.com
Tuesday, 25th October 2011
Evelyn Grace Academy / RIBA Stirling Prize
So we were delighted when the Evelyn Grace Academy was announced as the recipient of the 2011 RIBA Stirling Prize for the greatest contribution to British architecture of the past year. For Rock, it is very gratifying to once again be associated with a project that has earned the highest level of professional recognition.
Mace Plus contracted Rock to ensure that the building’s roof was waterproofed with our proven hot melt system, finished with quality architectural ballast and paving slabs. It is, however, very common for a main contractor to call upon Rock’s expertise in areas other than waterproofing. In this instance, Mace Plus made us responsible for the finishes on the low level concourse areas, which required a distinctive white granite imported from Ireland. Our team had to demonstrate a high degree of skill and care in installing the granite, as it played an important role in echoing other elements of Zaha Hadid’s overall design.
We congratulate Zaha Hadid Architects on winning the RIBA Stirling Prize. We also thank Mace Plus for choosing Rock as their partner on this highly imaginative and innovative project which offers exception opportunities to children in the Brixton area.
Friday, 30th September 2011
Safety becomes second nature with Rock’s new programme
All organisations in the construction industry are keen to declare their commitment to SHEQ– safety, health, environment and quality. Not surprisingly, as these issue are business critical to the growth and prosperity of any company.
Rock, however, are particularly active in nurturing a fresh mindset with regard to safety. It involves a programme where fundamental engagement and attitudinal change principles link directly to issues surrounding SHEQ.
Last year, we brought news of our involvement with Dramanon, a leading provider of drama-based training with a focus on health and safety. Since then, our people have been enrolled in a programme run by Costain which aims to deliver a step-change in safety culture.
Inspired by the way our business partners Costain and Mace have tackled SHEQ, Rock has made plans to roll out its own internal programme. A number of our people are currently undergoing training so that they, in turn, may offer instruction and conduct workshops to provide a foundation for continually improving health and safety management through behavioural change.
Friday, 30th September 2011
Specialist traditional finishes for heritage-sensitive sites
Rock’s core products remain waterproofing and renewable energy systems. Yet main contractors and specifiers are clearly aware that there are many more strings to our bow. Traditional roof finishes continue to be an essential part of our business. As a result, we find ourselves appointed to work on therestoration of a growing number of historical and landmark projects.
These include Café Royal near Piccadilly Circus, the prestigious Fenwick department store in Bond Street and the refurbishment of 49 Park Lane in Mayfair. In addition, we have worked with Laing O’Rourke on the new City of Westminster Courts, a flagship development in a highly sensitive location within the PortmanEstate Conservation Area, and with Mace on 5 Hanover Square, surrounded by the neighbouring listed buildings of the Mayfair Conservation Area.
Traditional roof materials employed on these projects include slate, tile, lead, copper, stainless steel and zinc. The painstaking installation methods of our skilled craftsmen ensure that the quality of work is never less than exceptional. Rock is delighted to be associated with historical projects, or those located in heritage-sensitive sites, helping revive their splendour with our quality materials and the consistently high standards of our professional artisans.
Friday, 30th September 2011
Rock pledges direct access to our most senior people
When working with Rock there is a named team of professional staff to support you, both on site and from our offices. All are empowered to make decisions swiftly to keep the project on schedule. However, there may be times when a client wishes to speak to one of our most senior managers. In such cases, any of Rock’s key decision-makers are keen to make themselves available as quickly as possible. That is something our clients tell us they value, and is not as commonplace as it might be throughout our industry.
“As a leader in our market, Rock is a sizeable company,” says John Walsh, our managing director, “but we’ve always consciously shunned the needlessly complex internal structure that characterises some organisations. If one of our clients has a question, they won’t find themselves having tonavigate a tortuous hierarchy of people before they get a straight answer. In situations where I am the person most qualified to make a decision, I want everyone to know that they are welcome to consult me personally.”
Growing out of this policy of direct communication, Rock is to launch a simple feedback survey at the end of our involvement on each project. This is in response to the marketplace, which increasingly demands that an accurate picture be captured of the work of each contractor on the day of its completion.
Friday, 30th September 2011
Look out, and look up, for green walls
At Rock, we’re tireless in our search for innovative finishes that perform excellently in ways not related solely to the waterproofing of roofs. That’s why we are particularly excited about our recent dealings with Den Ouden Export, a Dutch company specialising in the supply of plant screen cladding. For over 15 years the business has been heavily involved in the development of green ‘living walls’, a pre-grown, vertical system which can be easily applied in practically any place, requires little maintenance and satisfies many environmental aspirations.
We have seen for ourselves how important it can be to combine engineering proficiency, horticultural expertise and a flair for design to create a product that appeals strongly to our clients’ love of innovation. Whether employed as attractive vertical courtyards, vegetated partition walls or green noise barriers, this is a system we believe will enhance many projects in the UK market. Rock are delighted to be able to deliver this new product range.
Friday, 30th September 2011
Rock lays claim to the Square Mile’s largest green roof
But size isn’t everything. It’s great to be the leader in terms of scale, but Rock places just as much importance on retaining the top spot in terms of the quality of our design and installation.
Cannon Place is a mixed use scheme on a brownfield site above a major transport interchange. Its environmental impact was always a key consideration for Hines, the developer. As a result, main contractor Laing O’Rourke appointed Rock to deliver an inverted waterproofing system combined with an extensive green roof. To help mitigate the urban heat island effect and encourage the biodiversity of the City’s environment, Rock created a sedum blanket roof which could be home to indigenous herbs, grasses andwildlife.
Today, Rock is undertaking another large-scale bio-diverse roof, this time for Westfield Stratford City adjacent to the site of the London 2012 Olympic Games. Covering an area of 10,000 sq m, this ecological brown roof will provide a habitat to support flora and fauna and reduce rainwater run-off. It’s the latest example of why so many clients trust Rock to design, supply and install even the largest and most complex bio-diverse roof systems.
Thursday, 29th September 2011
Rock Wins Full Marks For Tackling Deflections
When a major contractor was commissioned to rejuvenate and rebuild over 20 schools in the North West it turned to 40-year roofing veteran Rock to install traditional inverted roofs on the first two projects to get the green light. With both buildings set to open for the new term in September - and construction being managed on existing school sites close to residential areas - it was vital that the project was safely managed within tight timescales. Cost-effectiveness and client satisfaction were of course also key.
With large expanses of flat roofing to cover– and energy efficiency as well as waterproofing a core client demand – the kit specified was Rock’s Flexiphalte triple protection system, a fully bonded high performance waterproofing system combining three core elements: a high performance membrane, overlain by durable Flexiphalte Pommar polymer modified mastic asphalt and covered with a 180mm thick layer of ROOFMATE SL-A insulation from Dow Building Solutions. The system was covered with ballast and paving slabs to produce a standard inverted roof finish.
“We recommended Flexiphalte triple protection for this job because we believe it gives a level of protection that cannot be matched by any other type of roofing system or membrane, giving “lifetime” performance equal to the substrate upon which it is laid,” said Mike Goddard, Rock’s Construction Director. “We felt ROOFMATE SL-A was the right insulation choice because it’s readily available, robust with a high compressive strength, easy to work with and we’ve seen its long-term performance first-hand.”
However, it was prior to installing the ROOFMATE insulation that Rock, in collaboration with the lead contractor, wanted to ensure adequate drainage - without having to resort to the cost of laying additional screed on what had already been designed as a‘zero pitch’ roof.
Although BS 6229:2003 recommends that an appropriate fall be accommodated on roof designs where there are continuously supported coverings, the British Board of Agrément (BBA)’s Information Bulletin No.4 acknowledges zero pitch roofs, emphasising the need to ensure drainage is sufficient and effective. Both designs are considered correct practice as long as drainage is adequate – but for zero pitch roofs this means any possibility of deflections must be designed-out in order to ensure water will not pond on the roof.
With a project already running to tight timescales and within strict cost limitations, the estimated six figure additional cost associated with adding screed and potentially raising parapet height was not an option. Rock’s solution was to carefully survey the roof for deflections and add additional Flexiphalte Pommar asphalt to potential problem areas, enabling a completely flat finish and ensuring water would run off to drainage outlets already specified and installed.
“The additional asphalt fuses entirely with the existing layer meaning we can still provide a fully-bonded system - but with no deflections,” continued Mike. “We’ve developed a solution that can either be built in at design stage where a zero pitch roof is favoured for cost reasons, or as aretrofit solution if deflections need to be addressed once the asphalt waterproofing has been completed.”
“This project was a great example of a main contractor, specialist roofer and materials supplier coming together to develop a solution for the ultimate benefit of the client,” said Richard Powell, Roofing Manager for Dow Building Solutions. “It’s thanks to that positive approach that the industry has found a method of addressing deflections in a cost-effective way based on existing, proven solutions.”
For more information about how Rock’s Flexiphalte triple protection system can be used to help prevent deflections and information about Rock’s other roofing solutions, visit http://www.wearerock.co.uk/. For product and stockist information on ROOFMATE SL-A visit www.styrofoam.co.uk or email below.
Note: JPA Technical Literature has produced a paper entitled“A review of recent guidance on inverted roof construction” which summarises European Technical Approval Guidance 031 (ETAG 031) on inverted roofs and BBA Information Bulletin No. 4. To download a copy visit the Dow Building Solutions website at www.styrofoam.co.uk.
Wednesday, 27th July 2011
New Rock office to win more contracts in Scotland
In May this year Rock opened a new office in Scotland, a strategic decision aimed at bringing our waterproofing technology and renewable energy systems to a larger UK market. Rock is already established as a Tier 1 partner with a number of Scotland’s main contractors. But our new office will see us consolidate and strengthen our position with a clear determination to capture more work north of the border.
Located in Hamilton, a short distance southeast of Glasgow, Rock’s office is headed by new business development manager Joe McCormack. Joe is a well-known and respected figure in our field, having worked previously for both Bauder and Alumasc, two leading specialist providers of world class waterproofing and green roof systems in Scotland.
“My job is to help put Rock on the map in Scotland,” Joe explains. “Our new registered office is a natural progression forward and proves that we are serious about winning contracts in this part of the world. The number of tender enquiries we have already received is very encouraging. There iswork to be had here from utilities companies, local authorities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh councils, as well as projects arising from the Commonwealth Games which Glasgow will host in 2014. I am genuinely excited about working to secure Rock a greater market share in Scotland. It’s a challengewhich the new office enables us to tackle on a much more solid footing.”
To contact Joe McCormack, please call 01698 422104 or email him at JMcCormack@wearerock.co.uk
Tuesday, 7th June 2011
Craig Nelson and Alette Anderson join the Rock team
To support and advance our delivery processes, Rock has taken on two new professionals at our head office in Chiswick. Joining our teams of estimators is Craig Nelson, who comes to us from his role as senior estimator at Proclad, one of Glasgow’s leading roofing contractors. “When it comes to preparing bid packages, Rock prides itself on attention to detail,” Craig says. “Whether the project is medium sized or extremely large and complex, our partnering architects, engineers or contractors know that the cost data we supply is honest and accurate. Years of experience in Scotland have taught me that my job doesn’t simply entail preparing time, cost and labour estimates, but giving customers something extra. By that, I mean bringing extra value to a client’s project by applying my knowledge of specialised methodologies, techniques, principles, or processes. I’m looking forward to helping Rock make any new build or refurbishment scheme more feasible and cost-effective, leading to a better end result for everyone.”
Also joining us is Alette Anderson, who as preconstruction administrator is the first point of contact when Rock is required to price a job. Alette worked previously at Structural Systems, a subsidiary of the P.C. Harrington Group, which specialises primarily in post tensioning, concrete repair and bridge maintenance services. Now focussing on waterproofing and renewable technology for Rock, Alette says she enjoys a high level of interaction with a range of key stakeholders, from the initial quote to final handover.“At Rock, I’ve found front line sales people and tender team colleagues all work together really well to help deliver sharp and highly compelling tender responses to potential clients. One of the most striking things I have already noticed in my time here is the very positive and dynamic atmosphere. People are genuinely encouraged to suggest new ideas that could be employed as part of Rock’s business plan. I know that, apart from Rock’s total professionalism, the UK’s biggest contractors are keen to work with us because they find our outlook and approach refreshing.”
Tuesday, 3rd May 2011
Finance director takes it on the chin for charity
The sight of Rock’s finance director Andrew Wood swinging his fists and stumbling about in a daze is, we’re happy to report, not a common one. Yes, it was a Saturday night and, yes, he was in a pub at the time. It was, however, all for a good cause.
Not to be outdone by John Walsh’s Herculean efforts for charity, Rock’s finance director Andrew Wood weighed in with his own test of physical endurance. No miles of kayaking or marching for Andrew. Instead he elected to, as he delicately put it, “have my head kicked in” at a charity boxing event held at the Grasshopper Inn in Westerham. All proceeds went to Help for Heroes, the charity which works to provide better facilities for wounded British servicemen and women.
The event was a big success and began with a champagne reception, though Andrew had to forego his bubbly for fear that he’d be punch drunk a little later. As it happened he wasn’t out for the count, but still on his feet by the end of his three rounds. Andrew bobbed and weaved his way to raising £3,000 on the night, which we believe does make him a champion of sorts.
Tuesday, 3rd May 2011
John Walsh rises to the challenge for cancer charities
