10 Mar “Spotlight” on Alison Barlow
Following on from our celebration of International Women’s Day and to highlight the importance of women in construction week, we are ‘spotlighting’ Alison Barlow who joined MiCiM early 2021 as document controller. Alison has shown her capability and eagerness to learn and take on new challenges, supported by MiCiM with learning and development she is moving into the Health & Safety team this year. We chat with Alison about her career so far and how supported she feels MiCiM have been to develop her career;
Tell us a bit about your career so far and what you’re bringing to your new role:
I’ve been in the construction industry for around 18 years in a document control role and supporting the site team with whatever help they may need. I’ve worked on many different types of project including small interior fit-outs, nuclear, civil & engineering and multi-million pound construction projects. I aim to provide an administration function that delivers an inclusive and fully functional end to end process which works for everyone.
As far as my new role goes, well I have an inquisitive nature and I like to know how things work, if it’s broken, how is it broken, if it’s fixed, how did you fix it? I want to bring a hands-on approach and be fully involved with Health & Safety across all of the UK MiCiM projects as much as possible and will take responsibility for any difficult challenges that arise. Ultimately the role is about making sure the workplace is as safe as possible for everyone.
What would you say are the key strengths you bring to a team?
I am a team player with a diverse amount of experience and an eagerness to learn and take on new challenges. I have the ability to communicate with all members of the team at all levels.
Having worked in construction for over 15 years, mainly as a document controller, did taking the leap to change your career seem challenging?
Yes, any change can be challenging however, I always relish taking on new ideas and responsibilities and believe for personal development you should always be learning. I thank MiCiM for the opportunity.
Are there any skills learned in your formative years you still utilise today that you would bring to your new role?
I’m organised and pro-active as well as reactive. I like to think outside the box but I also like to deliver an admin process that is user-friendly and seamless.
How well were you supported by MiCiM in changing your career?
Throughout my time with MiCiM the management team have always been keen to develop and support their staff. I’ve always been encouraged to improve my skills and take on other tasks and roles within the MiCiM company structure. I cannot fault the vision that the management team have for the development of their staff.
What drove your aspiration to change your role at a later stage in your career?
It’s never too late to change your career. I’ve always been involved with the Health & Safety function in previous roles. There was an opportunity to take over the Health & Safety role within MiCiM and I jumped at the chance.
What is it that you enjoy about working with the MiCiM team?
Since joining MiCiM I have enjoyed working with the team. They are a friendly bunch with a great ‘teamwork’ attitude and everyone is approachable…..yes, even the directors!
After a busy working week, what do you do in your down time?
I’m quite competitive and driven in my personal life. I like to run three times a week and cycle when I can. I have an ‘always learning’ attitude. I’m actually qualified in Reflexology, Diet & Nutrition and Aromatherapy although I haven’t practiced for a long while. I’m currently learning to speak Spanish. Oh and I always find time to drink wine and eat chocolate.
