Former Royal Marine Commando, Darren Hayward, explains his transition from active duty to a career in scaffolding.
“People ask me how I did some of the difficult things during my time in the Marines, but I think it takes a similar degree of resilience to work in scaffolding,” explains Darren.
In the last five years working at Millcroft, Darren has led some prestigious and high-profile jobs; including managing the multi-million-pound HS2 scaffolding contract, alongside other projects within Millcroft’s extensive portfolio.
Continued Darren: “Scaffolding is a tough job and is easily underestimated; but it is also extremely rewarding and can provide a very good living.
“The Marines is a high intensity environment, but scaffolding can be too. At Millcroft, we have to deliver on some really important projects – ensuring they finish on time and within budget. There’s a lot of responsibility involved on the practical side but also on a moral level, we have to make sure our clients are happy and that the guys on site go home safely to their families.
“Resilience is a key skill to have in this game.”
Dedication and Commitment
Darren explains what his typical day at Millcroft looks like; from the 7am-5pm days, to the ‘on call’ mentality.
“There isn’t an average day in scaffolding,” said Darren.
“Working on infrastructure projects means our commitment is 24/7. We can deal with queries at any time of day or night. With our guys on site often night working – especially on projects like HS2 and Thames Water – we need to be available at all times.
“My first job when I get into the office, aside from going through emails, is calling all site managers and supervisors to check-in and make sure there aren’t any major issues to report. From there, each day can be different, from more admin and office-based tasks, to going out on site and liaising with the workforce and site teams.
“Good and frequent communication with the project offices, particularly on HS2, is important. We have regular operational forecasting and design meetings. Everything is planned and considered down to the very last detail, and we’re constantly assessing and making sure everything is running smoothly.”
‘Per Mare, Per Terram’
The motto of the Royal Marines Commandos is ‘Per Mare Per Terram’, which means ‘By Sea, By Land’, and reflects the dual role of the corps that is still prevalent today.
Serving a dual role himself in his career; from Royal Marines Commando to Senior Contracts Manager, Darren joined the Marines in 2000 at the age of 16. He was part of the first 600 operatives alongside the US Navy Seals on the ground in Iraq. He served seven years, including two tours of Iraq, Afghanistan, Sierra Leone, and arctic training in Norway.
“It was pretty lively stuff,” continued Darren.
“Yes, you have to be resilient, but as a leader, you also need to be aware how you carry yourself professionally. The same goes in my role at Millcroft. Rather than thinking about yourself, you need to think about your whole team, and keep the morale high.
“Being caring and showing empathy is also a big consideration. At Millcroft, the entire team has undertaken mental health training which has helped us spot the signs of poor mental health more easily and has given us an invaluable toolkit of skills to support each other in the best way we can.”
Climbing Up the Ladder
After leaving the Marines, Darren started working as a scaffold labourer, and completed his Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CIRS) Part 1, Part 2 and Advanced Scaffolding training.
“I worked my way up to site foreman then supervisor. I decided to improve my skill-set further and I achieved a National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) Construction Certificate. I also gained my Tech IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health), as well as completing my Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Contracts Management; and I was promoted to a contracts’ supervisor role.
“I really knuckled down and was promoted again to contracts manager, Projects Manager and Divisional Manager. Five years ago, I came to Millcroft as Senior Contracts Manager where I now administer high level, large sub-contracts, but also implement my experience of health and safety as well as design capabilities and operational delivery.”
Darren explains how Millcroft has supported his continual development with training and networking opportunities, and exposure to the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC).
“Working at Millcroft has certainly given me a good platform to get on board with NASC – and I am now a member of the NASC Contracts Committee, reviewing contractual guidance for the wider industry.
“It is an honour in a way; I am quite young to be in a position like this, and I think for the next generation of scaffolders it can be quite refreshing to see young blood in these types of roles. I hope it inspires other young managers that are coming through the ranks and gives them aspirations of going further in the industry.”
“Professionalism, Family, Integrity.”
“Professionalism, family, integrity;” These are the three words Darren would use to sum up Millcroft.
“Millcroft is very much a family – I probably see more of the Millcroft team than I do my own bloodline,” said Darren.
“We have been through tough times together and the ups and downs of life, but we look after each other. I wouldn’t have been here for five years if I didn’t feel comfortable around the team, we are like a family.”
Aside from work, Darren says he enjoys spending time with his children.
“I go to a lot of sporting events with the kids and it is a good way for me to relax and unwind. When I’m not working, I like to give time back to my family.”
Opportunities for the Next Generation of Scaffolders
“There are so many opportunities within scaffolding for young people today. As a company, we are trying to spread the word about the benefits of coming into the sector.”
Darren concluded: “My foundations were laid in the military but the scaffolding industry has given me a new opportunity to build on those foundations. I’m always looking to improve as an individual and as part of a team.
“I believe companies like Millcroft can provide opportunities to people whatever background they’ve come from and at varying stages of life. As always, it’s up to each individual to make the most of those opportunities. Having a strong work ethic with good moral values, and a humbleness to learn from others, will always give you a positive return. And when things seem tough, keep going. It’s always worth it!”
