Re:Generation Edition 02
Elevating the game
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It made me realise this was not just a job, says Nick. “It was more like a family, but one that invests in its members, supports their personal growth and embraces their passions.”
A few years later and wanderlust took hold of the young man, and he took a sabbatical, spending a year in Australia working as a basketball coach. (He didn’t like the sport – or know the rules – at six feet six inches, he was just very tall!)
Nick Blackman Pre-Construction Director
With 22 years in the company, Nick embodies General Demolition’s core values of investing in their people and rewarding initiative. Born in leafy Hammersmith to middle class parents who worked in architecture and the oil industry, you might think that a life in demolition was not the obvious career choice for the young Nick. Thankfully, he was given the freedom to forge his own path. After completing his studies, he drifted into construction as a formworker on concreting projects, before finding his way to General Demolition.
Humble beginnings
But after the last dribble, dodge and airball was done, Blackman was keen to get home – and it was a slam dunk that General Demolition was just as keen to embrace him. “It made me realis e this was not just a job,” says Nick. “It was more like a family, but one that invests in its members, supports their personal growth and embraces their passions.” Before long Nick was Office Manager, and since then he has worked his way around the company, adding new skills with every job title change. The Financial Crisis compelled General Demolition to adopt a more holistic approach, where employees like Nick had to wear multiple hats. This cradle-to-grave involvement in projects, handling sales, project management, and commercial aspects, honed Nick’s skills and deepened his understanding of the industry. By immersing himself in all aspects of the business, Nick gained a comprehensive perspective that would later prove invaluable.
Nick wasn’t supposed to stay long – let alone more than two decades. His journey at General Demolition began as a temp, answering phones and assisting with administrative tasks. The company’s tight-knit office environment fostered a sense of camaraderie and purpose. Despite being only 18, Nick quickly realized the impact even the smallest tasks could have on the company’s success. Building a strong rapport with then boss, and current Chairman, Colin, Nick soon developed a fondness for the inclusive family atmosphere at the company and started putting down roots. It certainly wasn’t for the glamorous work surroundings, as he trudged through ankle deep mud from the grandly named ‘car park’ in the yard to his humble desk.
Reflecting on the demands of his current job – winning work – Nick smiles at the cultural changes in the sales process. Where once a charismatic salesman with good connections could win a job over a decent lunch, the industry has shifted so only meticulous documentation, analysis, and accountability will win the day now. “As the industry evolves, we must evolve with it, ” says Nick. “We prioritise a client-centric approach, understanding their requirements and providing tailored solutions. It’s about building trust through transparency and consistently delivering beyond expectations.” With more than two decades at the company under his belt, the still young 40-year-old Nick represents both the past and the future of the company. And in that the company is in safe hands. He is quick to highlight the potential of the business: as General Demolition continues to develop Nick’s deep understanding of the industry and empathetic approach to client needs will play a pivotal role in securing new projects and ensuring the company’s continued success.
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General Demolition is here to disrupt the industry, to redefine what’s possible.
A key player in the next chapter, Nick envisions the company becoming a ‘Tier one’ business – one of demolition’s big guys – leading the way in innovation and diversifying into new areas within their expertise. “We don’t settle for mediocrity,” states Nick. “General Demolition is here to disrupt the industry, to redefine what’s possible. We thrive on competition, constantly pushing ourselves to excel and outshine the giants.” With two children under five, his time and energy outside of work are dedicated to family. Despite the demanding nature of his role, the joy of winning projects and the pride in his work keep him motivated and excited about the future. Nick Blackman’s two-decade journey in the demolition industry exemplifies the supportive and enduring culture of General Demolition. From his humble beginnings as an intern to his current role as Pre-Construction Director, Nick’s adaptability and dedication have made him instrumental in the company’s ongoing success.
We thrive on competition,
constantly pushing ourselves to excel and outshine the giants.”
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www.General-Demoliton.co.uk
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