After 30 years of working on fit-outs and refurbishments, Pexhurst’s Martin Vella tells CM that the variety of the industry is what stands out for him.
What do you remember from your first project?
On my first high-end office fit-out job, over 30 years ago now, I accidentally ordered the doors in imperial and frames in metric! I didn’t tell the architect and spent all weekend adjusting them. On Monday morning, I received a call from the architect asking how the weekend had gone but I didn’t reveal anything. It turns out my father had told him the week before and I learned from that day forward: however big or small you mess up, it is best to share it with the team, as we all make mistakes.
What was the best advice you were given?
My father, who brought me into the business, once gave me a piece of advice that has stuck with me throughout the years: “Work hard and the rewards will follow.” It’s the same advice I offer to everyone today… But do get that work-life balance right!
“I learned from that day forward: however big or small you mess up, it is best to share with the team, as we all make mistakes.”
Which project you worked on are you most proud of?
It would be wrong to single out one project; I have enjoyed every project whether it was changing a single door handle or a £9m refurbishment of a few hundred square feet.
Is there anything in your career you would do differently now?
There are times in business when decisions are made that are not necessarily pleasant for all involved, but I have no regrets and I’ve definitely learned some lessons along the way.
What do you enjoy most about this industry?
The variety – every day is different, every project you do you learn something new. And the people you meet along the way.
What advice would you give to someone starting today?
It’s a great industry – no day is the same and every day you are challenged to learn something new. Stick with it and I’m sure you will make a success of yourself.
What one thing would you change to make careers in construction more appealing?
We need schools to do their bit. In my opinion the YTS scheme of the 1980s has never been replaced and the construction industry diversity is not promoted to the teenagers enough when they are making choices. The same can be said for colleges that don’t interact with future employers with the passion students deserve.
What has changed the most about construction since you’ve been working in it?
The whole industry has become far more professional over the years: the approach to health and safety, quality, sustainability and impact on the environment are making our industry even more exciting with lots of new innovations to come…
What’s the most valuable training you’ve received and why?
Experience.
Do you have a motto that applies to your work and if so, what is it?
I’m a strong believer that if you get the foundations right, the rest will follow.
Images: Joanna Good Photography
