INTERVIEW ALEX EDWARDS
MADE IN THE ROYAL MARINES
F or nearly a decade, Alex Edwards and his wife Victoria have successfully run Edleigh Construction in Newton Abbot, Devon. But before his life as a builder, Edwards served his country in the Royal Marines. Lessons in discipline, determination, punctuality, problem-solving and teamwork – all fundamentals in the armed forces – have contributed to the efficient and effective manner in which Edwards manages his business. Master Builder caught up with Edwards to ask him about his time in the Royal Marines and why he thinks service leavers are an excellent fit for the construction industry.
Why did you enlist in the Royal Marines and how long did you serve?
I joined the Royal Marines when I was 24, looking for a new direction and a real challenge. A friend mentioned he was signing up, so I tagged along to the recruitment office, not fully grasping what I was getting myself into but ready for something exciting. After applying, I received a training pack and a date for the three-day physical induction. It included a three-mile run, gym test, assault course, endurance course, swim test, a night under canvas, interview, and lectures. I successfully enrolled in March 2009 and served for six years, specialising as a landing craftsman. What are the three most important lessons you learned during your service that have helped you to run a successful construction business? ● Punctuality is crucial. In the Royal Marines, being late meant enduring physical punishment and a lot of shouting. In business, being late can cost you customers. ● Discipline was drilled into us from day one, from personal hygiene (yes, showering with 64 other blokes!) to maintaining equipment. In construction, we keep our sites clean and our tools well-maintained to ensure safety and efficiency.
Master Builder 22
www.fmb.org.uk
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