Conor Leavey, assistant project manager. I'm based at the Barking 132kV Switchgear Replacement project, River Road, London.
I am part of the project delivery team working at Barking for our client National Grid. My weeks comprise of a variety of activities ranging from site management, programme management, client engagement and commercial input. Being site based provides an excellent opportunity to understand the full workings of the project from design to install and commission.
Barking is a turnkey project, whereby as principal contractors, MPN are managing design, direct delivery workforce and several large supply chain partners. This results in further coordination required between design, procurement and site to maintain programme and high health and safety standards.
As an assistant project manager, I try to get involved in all aspects of the project that require support. I enjoy helping the site team whenever they need an extra man to get a job done.
The communication aspect to my role is one I find interesting and enjoyable. My role requires communication with a wide variety of people affected by or involved in the project. Understanding and being able to communicate clearly with each individual can be challenging and requires the need to navigate different personalities, job roles, technical expertise and attitude to the project.
As I learn and develop, I hope to progress as a project manager and further within the operational delivery function of Murphy.
Try to learn about all functions that contribute to the running of a project, engineering, procurement, planning, commercial and SHESQ. Being on site is the best place to appreciate how the business works as that is where the end product is delivered for our clients. There is a wealth of experience and knowledge available to learn from on site as the foreman and site teams are the business’ key assets – speak with them, understand their work, learn as much as possible and build relationships that will help you throughout your career.
