Julien joined GA Smart Building as a Group Works Manager and developed into the position of locksmith Metalwork Director.
Group Works Manager, Julien is also “Works Engineer” or “Works Supervisor” at the Group level.
He works closely with the Works Supervisor and the site manager, who reports to him, and the Business Engineer, who monitors the project from a distance. And along with the various supporting departments, process planning, purchasing, legal etc., Julien also works directly with the Production Unit Manager and the design office.
In the preparation phase, he draws up the completion schedule, prepares the site and designates the different architectural trades. Along with the process planning department, he draws up and validates the different phases of the construction project and selects the materials, tools and equipment.
In the work phase, he supervises the construction project, ensures all work is completed properly and makes sure the activities are carried out in the right order. He inspects the Site Manager reports, manages client relations and supervises the partner service providers.
Finally, in his role as Works Supervisor, Julien draws up quotes for additional work requested by the client and is responsible for invoicing throughout the work. He also validates invoices from partner service providers.
When the building has been completed, Julien accepts the work done.
What skills are required of a Works Engineer or New Works supervisor?
Being responsible for the entire construction project, Julien is on the front line. This requires calmness under pressure and excellent organisational and personal skills.
He has a perfect understanding of building and construction techniques. He guarantees safety on the site and is therefore aware of private and public contract legislation. He stays abreast of legal developments in terms of disputes, insurance, subcontracting and possesses financial management skills.
And of course, being on site three days a week, he enjoys mobility.
What is a typical day like for Julien, Group Works Manager?
Being on site three days a week, I ensure compliance with safety and environmental rules, that work is progressing as it should be and that any modifications arising during the work are catered for exactly. With my vocational Master’s degree in civil engineering, GA had caught my eye very early. I joined the Group after my internship at the end of the course, first on a temporary contract as Assistant Work Supervisor then on a permanent basis as Works Engineer then Chief Works Engineer before I became Group Works Manager. The aspect I enjoy most about working for GA is being on integrated projects which are under control from A to Z, with engineering and the industrial process specific to the Group: the prefabrication of structures in the workshop and assembly on site. The family atmosphere here is very pleasant. Because even if GA is an SME, we are all still very close to each other.
Start of the day
Site progress report with the Works Supervisor and the Site Manager. Site visit to check PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is being worn and that safety equipment is in place. Work progress inspection.
10:00 a.m.
Lead a site meeting with partner service providers. Progress report on the schedule, inspection of completion plans, selection and validation of materials, technical and architectural trades. And compliance with safety and environmental rules.
2:00 p.m.
Lead a steering committee with project owner and their partners. The agenda includes an administrative and contractual progress report covering service provider approval, insurance issues and monitoring project modifications. Update on site progress and budget control for the operation. Validation of completion documents and products to be implemented with the client.
End of the day
Writing up the minutes of the day’s meetings, completing technical/financial research on the proposed modifications.