IN THE INTERVIEW ROOM with…Anjam Shahzad
Q. Hello Anjam and welcome to The Interview Room. How long have you been working for Irwell Valley?
A. I joined the company in 2007
Q. And what do you do exactly?
A. I’m the Project/Development Manager, which means I look after Irwell Valley’s new build and refurbishment contracts.
Q. How did you hear about the job?
A. Word of mouth and job sites but I also knew that Irwell Valley has an excellent reputation for its regeneration and development programmes and customer service – so I was always on the look out for an opportunity to work here.
Q. What qualifications do you need be a Project/Development Manager?
A. Well, I have a degree/diploma in Building/Housing Studies, experience in managing projects and schemes from start to finish, budget management, drawing up contracts, ensuring deadlines are met and of course because of the nature of the job, I have to be skilled at managing a diverse group of people and ensure everyone’s requirements are properly communicated,
Q. So apart from technical ability, person skills are quite important.
A. Oh Yes. Irwell Valley is very strong in that area – and that’s what I like about being here. There’s a real emphasis on customer relations. I have the qualifications for the job, but Irwell Valley also likes to recruit ‘thinking’ performers – people who ensure things are done in the right way. As much as technical skills, we select for attitude and that’s the real difference between working here and anywhere else. We all want to enjoy our job and add value to the company at the same time.
Q. Do you work regular hours/what time do you start and finish?
A. On average, it’s a 7 hour day - it really does depend on the stage of the project I’m managing – but one of the great things about Irwell Valley is that there are facilities and opportunities to ensure you have a healthy work/balance.
Q. What’s your biggest achievement so far at Irwell Valley?
A. Completing Richmond Hill in Salford, 57 units for shared ownership outright sale and which has picked up awards for development and partnership working, The Picture House in Bolton, 44 units for shared ownership and a 22 unit scheme for Bolton Women’s Aid for rent.
I inherited all of these projects when I joined Irwell Valley and it was an exciting challenge to manage a new team of people and meet targets and deadlines.
Q. Thanks Anjam, your interview in The Red Room is almost over but just time for a couple of quick fire questions. How would your colleagues describe you?
A. Wicked sense of humour
Q. What’s your favourite meal?
A. I make a brilliant Karahi Chops, but before you ask I’m not giving away any trade secrets.
Q. What are you least likely to say?
A. Mine’s a Shandy
Q. What are you most likely to say?
A. No, I’ll get this round. I’m generous that way.
Thanks Anjam.