Kate is a Human Resources Manager at LCB.
When did you start at LCB?
I started college in September 2019
How long have you been involved in construction education?
I have worked in construction education for 6 years.
What does your day-to-day look like?
In HR no two days are ever the same! My role covers everything from staff wellbeing and recruitment to improving existing processes and ensuring policies and procedures are followed effectively. It is very rewarding to see people grow and teams succeed, but it does come with its challenges!
How does working at LCB differ to other places you’ve worked?
LCB is my first employer, so I don’t have anything to compare it to. However, through training, networking and speaking with others in education, I really value the supportive culture we have at the college. It is such a friendly and welcoming environment, and I am lucky to have started my career at LCB!
What is your favorite thing about your job?
My main passion within my role is staff wellbeing. Over the past few years, the college has placed a significant focus on this area, introducing dedicated wellbeing initiatives and events which I have been heavily involved in. Supporting these initiatives and seeing the positive impact they have on staff has been particularly rewarding for me.Aside from this,I also enjoy travelling between sites, catching up with staff and offering guidance and support where necessary. Creating a positive working environment that aligns with the college’s values will always be the main aim.
Do you have a favorite thing you’ve achieved while being here? If so, what?
Last year we attended the Personnel Today Awards after being nominated in the Health & Wellbeing category and we won! Competing against some major organisations made the achievement even more special and it was definitely a career highlight for me.
Has LCB changed since you’ve been here? If so, how?
Yes, LCB has seen several changes whilst I have been here, with strong organisational growth and renovated facilities, it has improved the college environment for both staff and students. There has also been new management bringing fresh ideas and teams have continued to develop.
How has LCB helped you to progress your career?
LCB has supported my career progression from starting as an apprentice, where I completed my Level 3 CIPD [Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development], through to a HR Coordinator role where I achieved my Level 5 CIPD. I then progressed to HR Business Partner, becoming involved in more strategic, higher-level work, and most recently moved into a HR Manager role where I manage a small team and lead on key HR initiatives.
What do you want to see in the future for LCB?
With the recent purchase of our new building, I see huge scope for growth, progression and further development of our expertise. As a CTEC [Construction Technical Excellence Colleges] college with a strong reputation, we’re in a fantastic position to continue building on that success. Moving forward I’d love to see us strengthen this even further, expanding opportunities for students whilst continuing to build a skilled, supportive workforce that enables students to reach their full potential.
What advice would you give to other women thinking about joining the construction industry?
I work in HR, so I’m not directly involved in the teaching side, but I see the impact of the industry every day through the people we support. I hear so many positive stories about female students who have gone on to win awards, and I see more women on campus year on year, and it is great to see women thriving in what has traditionally been a male-dominated environment.
Can you sum up LCB in a sentence?
“A fantastic place to work where people are encouraged to grow and succeed.”
Find out more about working at LCB right here
