Chapter 8 – from brown wage envelopes to Boardroom decisions: My journey to Finance Director

Katie’s story

I began working here during school holidays when I was about 10 years old. Back then, I sat on reception, did filing and used the adding machine, which I loved. We only had one computer in the office, and employees were paid in cash. Once my dad had worked out the wages, we'd have to put them into brown wage envelopes ready for payday.

After leaving school at 18, I went to Newcastle University and got a BA in Social Anthropology. If I'm honest, I chose it because I wasn't really sure what I wanted to do. During my degree, I had the opportunity to take modules from other departments, and I opted for accounting as it seemed much more useful. When I graduated in July 1996, I had a two-week break before my mum reminded me it was time to find a job. Given I always enjoyed using the adding machine, I asked my dad whether I could join the business properly and train as an accountant.

I started in payroll while studying for my CIMA qualification through day release in Manchester. Those first four years were invaluable. Not only did I learn the technical side of finance, but I gained a deep understanding of how the business operated. I was lucky to be mentored by our Finance Director, Ron Cockerill, whose guidance helped shape my career. When Ron retired in 2002, I took over as Company Secretary and Finance Director. Looking back, I'm proud of what we've achieved as a business. As a family business, it remains a lasting tribute to Dad's hard work, commitment and foresight, a journey that ultimately culminated in our transition to an Employee Ownership Trust in August 2025.

One project that stands out is the Frodsham Wind Farm development, the largest contract we've ever delivered and one of our best achievements. It was a huge project involving big subcontract elements and performance bonds. Even now, every time I drive past, I find myself counting the turbines to make sure they're all turning.

The biggest influence on my career has been my dad. He taught me so much and gave me the opportunity to prove myself. At the same time, he made it clear that there would be no special treatment. His philosophy was simple: I would need to work harder than everyone else and earn every opportunity. As he used to say, "No one can put any pips on your shoulders except you." I loved working with him and miss him every day.

What I enjoy most about my job is the people. Over the years I've shared weddings, births, celebrations, challenges and losses with colleagues who have become great friends. Through it all, they've been a constant source of support and encouragement.

I also still get satisfaction from balancing the books, finding efficiencies, investing in new plant and equipment, and helping ensure the business remains strong for the future. There is something really rewarding about knowing that sound financial decisions contribute directly to the success of the company and its people.

Construction is a fantastic industry to be part of. Civil engineering underpins almost every aspect of our infrastructure and offers long-term career opportunities, stability and purpose. As a woman in construction, I would encourage more girls to consider the sector. It's an industry that offers the chance to be part of a team and deliver for future generations.