Black and White provides mechanical, electrical and public health design and consultancy services to the global construction industry.
The firm operates offices around the world and works on projects such as a biocampus in Billingham and the Marina Gate residential tower development in the United Arab Emirates as well as datacentre projects too. Here Black and White's UK and Europe director Steve Horn answers our questions.
What was your first job (and how much did it pay)?
My first real job other than newspaper rounds was a part-time Sunday job at House of Fraser in the Metrocentre. It was so long ago now I cannot recall the exact pay, but I think it was only around £20-25 per week.
What is the best advice or support you’ve been given in business?
Stay true to your values and vision; work hard and with integrity; lead by example; constantly seek feedback, and be the best you possibly can.
What are the main changes you’ve seen in your business/sector, and what are the challenges you’re facing?
Technology and digital transformation has been at the forefront of the main changes in our business and across our industry, which means we are continually investing in this area. When I first started out in the industry we had drawing boards, print rooms and even a library in the office. Things are a little different now.
In terms of the challenges, recruitment is a hurdle for us. There is a lack of available engineers in our industry both regionally and globally across all of our offices. To combat that, we are focussed on becoming an employer of choice. We are also developing internal training programmes for school leavers through to graduates which will allow us to train the next generation of engineers.
How has the pandemic changed the way you work?
Of course, there has been a big increase in the number of meetings being undertaken via video conferencing. Whilst face to face meetings are still important and valuable they are less frequent now and on the positive side this has led to less travelling and a more sustainable approach. A hybrid working model offers far more flexible working. Our teams spend three days in the office and have the choice to work the other two days either at home or in the office.
Who is your role model in business?
I could list a number of high profile and well-known individuals, but perhaps a less well-known role model is Darwin E. Smith, who was the CEO of Kimberly-Clark. I first came across him in a book called “From Good to Great” written by Jim Collins. Darwin E. Smith was a leader with a unique combination of professional will and personal humility. He made the difficult, yet strategic decision to shift Kimberly-Clark out of paper products and into consumer products, which ultimately made the business what it is today.
Smith exhibited a fiery work ethic and willingness to make risky decisions to further benefit the business. When his decisions led to success, he tended to cite the work of his colleagues or good fortune. When the company fell under hard times, he accepted blame and looked for the next breakthrough idea.
What would your dream job be?
When I was younger I always had an aspiration to be a fighter pilot in the Royal Air Force but for various reasons it never materialised. Looking back now it was not the career for me and I have no regrets, but at the time it seemed like such an exciting job.
What advice would you give to someone starting out a career in your sector?
We work in a fantastic industry with a number of great people and opportunities both in the UK and across the world. In terms of advice I would always say work hard, learn quickly and continuously challenge yourself. It’s also important to be accountable and continuously seek feedback so that you can keep improving.
What makes the North East a good place to do business?
A highly-skilled, flexible and hard-working workforce, connectivity to global markets, a focus on science and innovation and generally a lower cost base compared to other parts of the UK.
How important is it for business to play a role in society?
Vitally important. At Black and White we place a lot of focus on being a socially responsible business whether it be supporting local businesses through our supply chain, supporting charities or local schools and colleges.
Outside of work, what are you really good at?
Outside of work, most of my time is predominantly spent supporting my two sons who are goalkeepers. They play A LOT of football, so it does not leave a lot of time to be really good at anything else!
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