Meet Charlotte Strike, Trainee Contracts Manager at our head office on Rotherwas Industrial Estate in Hereford.

After completing her college course and shadowing and assisting colleagues since starting in September 2023, Charlotte is now managing her own projects…

Q: Tell us about your job?

I work in the Contracts department which is responsible for managing and organising day-to-day site activities and planning all the necessary provisions before a project begins.  Although I am still a trainee, I have begun to take on more of my own projects; initially working with other members of the team and assisting with their projects and managing small sites, but as I am gaining experience and confidence, I am now beginning to manage larger projects.

Q: How did you come into this role?

I was looking for an apprenticeship or trainee role and spotted the Taylor Lane job advert online, before coming to an open day as part of the interview process.  I wanted a job with career progression and the opportunity to study towards something.  I was an operating theatre assistant before this, having studied health sciences at college, but sadly, there just wasn’t the scope to advance with this in the near future.

Q: So, it was more of ‘right place, right time, than wanting a job in construction?

Yes, definitely.  I had a little knowledge about construction but wasn’t particularly aware of timber frame.  I have family who work in building and the trade, so I’d always had an interest, but job-wise, it simply wasn’t on my radar.  I wanted to know more though after coming to the open day.

Q: You’ve completed a Higher National Certificate (HNC) as part of your traineeship, has that been a benefit?

The course – Construction and the Built Environment HTQ – was brilliant.  It gave a broad introduction to construction and included modules on Construction Management and Modern Methods of Construction.  I attended college in Cheltenham one day per week and the rest of the time in work.  This was a mix of office-based tasks and site visits and training.  I get my results this summer!

Q: What do you enjoy most about working in our Contracts department?

I learn something new every day, especially when it comes to problem solving.  That’s the biggest challenge, but I treat each issue as an opportunity to learn — I will know what to do if I face that problem again.  It’s all about preparation!

Q: You’ve worked with us for almost two years now, tell us about your experiences.

I was incredibly nervous when I first started; I didn’t know what to expect, but I’m really glad I applied.  Everyone was so welcoming, and they’re very helpful and supportive.  They want you to be successful and get you to the ‘next level’.

Q: What does the future look like?

I want to gain as much experience as possible and become a professional Contracts Manager.  I’d also like to do more courses to help my progression.  That’s another good thing about Taylor Lane — you don’t feel restricted.  They’re open to career progression and changing roles.  I’m excited for the future.

Charlotte is also a member of our Appreciation Team, alongside David.  Each month, they prepare a reward for the team.  Most recently, they arranged for an ice cream van to visit our office and factories, and each staff member was treated to a free ice cream.

If Charlotte has inspired you and you wish to explore career opportunities within Taylor Lane Timber Frame, then get in touch, or, if you’re local to Hereford, attend our Recruitment Open Day.

Event Details:

Recruitment Open Day

???? 17th July 2025

????Taylor Lane Timber Frame, Chapel Road, Hereford. HR2 6LD

⏰ 12PM – 7PM

Free Parking

Refreshments available

Please do not wear open toe shoes, flip flops or sandals as the event includes a factory tour.  Thank you.

RSVP

While this is an open event we require a RSVP with an estimated time of arrival.  Please email [email protected] with your name and an approximate time.

In the meantime, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.