Ana Manole

After completing my studies, I left my home country of Romania at the age of 18 and moved to Italy where I met my husband and together, we moved to England in 2015. I started my first ever job at a chocolate factory in Birmingham. After 8 months we moved to London, and I began my career in the construction industry as a Welfare Operative. I have since trained as a Fire Marshal and have made a promise to myself to continue to work hard to earn the opportunity to be a Site Manager one day.

What does equality and diversity mean to you?

To me it means being respected and treated the same as everyone else, no matter what. It also involves, being given the opportunity to be challenged within my career to prove that I can add value and progress. Everyone should be given a chance to show what they are capable of because without that there is no motivation or room for progression.

How long have you been working for DGP and how did you come to join us?

I joined DGP in November of 2020 as a welfare operative. I have since been given the opportunity to complete my Fire Marshal training and have been in this position since March 2021. I really enjoy working in the construction industry and seeing the progression of the project on site. I appreciate the opportunity that my role allows me to work alongside various trades and people at different levels which helps me develop relationships and improve my skills as a Fire Marshal.

Do you feel supported and what is the atmosphere like within the team? Do you feel part of the team?

Yes, I feel very supported. Since day one my team has always made themselves available to support me within my role. They have helped me to improve my English, my confidence, skills and most importantly make me laugh. As a team we understand each other and overcome daily challenges together which has created a strong bond between us.

Do you feel there are opportunities to guide you on your career journey with DGP?

Yes, I do feel there are opportunities. On many occasions I have been recognised for my hard work and dedication by my manager and the client. This means a lot. I can’t thank my manager enough for his endless recognition, encouragement, and guidance in helping me to gain knowledge and confidence within my role at DGP. I believe that DGP will further guide me to reach my career goal of becoming a Site Manager one day.

What is the best site you have worked on and why?

This is the only project that I have worked on with DGP. I enjoy this site and the busy environment; it certainly boosts my motivation with no two days ever being the same and helps me maintain an impressive step count at 30,000+ a day. I am proud that I help to keep everyone safe on site and I continuously communicate with everyone to keep the site running smoothly.

How does it feel to be a female working within a male dominated industry and do you feel respected?

Yes, I feel very respected. I’m very happy to work within this environment and I have never felt labelled differently being a female in the construction industry. If I am ever in the position where I am having difficulties in carrying out tasks or need advice from my male colleagues, they are always there to lend a hand. We are a team who are all working towards the same end goal.

What is it like working within your role with English being your second language?

In the beginning, with English being my second language, I found it difficult to communicate confidently with management and team members on site. With time, patience, and support from my team, I adapted and learned quickly. As a site-based EDI Champion, I find it a rewarding experience to be able to give back and further bridge the communication gap on site to further engage, promote understanding and assist in delivering wellbeing and engagement initiatives.” Being bilingual is a powerful tool, I can see the difference I am making and enjoy translating on a day-to-day basis and encouraging my team members to speak English.