Ask anyone at McDermotts about Elaine Kirby and the phrase ‘backbone of Head Office’ is most people’s first thought! Never one to shy to away from any challenge that is thrown at her, Elaine has been working for McDermotts for nearly 14 years and has been instrumental in helping the company evolve into the large enterprise it is today.
We asked Elaine a few questions to get to know her a little better.
Can you explain your progression through the company over the last 13 years?
I first started at McDermotts in July 2006 as a receptionist. About 2 months in, I was encouraged by Malcolm to take on more and more office management responsibilities. Soon after, the recession hit and everyone had to pull together and muck in where possible to ensure we weathered the storm. Suddenly I was involved in procurement, HR, training and even Health & Safety site visits where I would be walking around sites with client Directors. Since then my role has evolved again and I now report directly into the Board and manage five areas of the business – Insurance, HR, ITC, Building Management and data protection – a long way from my receptionist days!
What do you love most about working at McDermotts?
The culture is second to none – friendly, professional and value-driven. Everyone is set up to succeed and the company operates without needless red tape meaning anyone can approach the Directors. It goes without saying that McDermotts is family orientated and I appreciate all of the staff events, family fun days and charity challenges that the company invest in to keep the community spirit alive.
What’s one of your most memorable McDermotts moments?
It has to have been the Three Peaks Challenge that we completed for charity to celebrate our 20th Anniversary year. It was incredibly tough and on the second day I was convinced I wouldn’t make it to the top of Scarfell Pike. However, with all of the encouragement from everyone around me, I did make it to the top and even went on to climb Ben Nevis the next day, thus completing the challenge!
What’s your favourite thing when you’re not at McDermotts?
Most definitely looking after my five grandchildren, spending time with the family and a spot of DIY!
Quick-fire round:
Digger or Dumper? Digger
Beach holiday or city break? Beach holiday
Hard hat or hi-viz vest? Hi-viz vest
Chinese or Indian takeaway? Indian takeaway
Bricklaying or Groundworks? Groundworks