Name: Narelle Warren
Position: Managing Director
Company: Brushwood Fencing Australia
What do you enjoy the most, working in the field of Construction & Development?
Being on construction and building sites and having that interaction with other colleagues. It’s always a joy seeing new innovative techniques and products been implemented, whether or not it’s specific to my industry.
Collaborating with others on complex projects to achieve better outcomes is always rewarding and exciting regardless of its challenges.
Where do you see life in the next 5 years, what possibilities are ahead of you?
I’m currently working the prospect of introducing a new product range; decorative screening which can also be used as a pool compliant fence.
In addition we’ve just introduced a “Low Maintenance” range to our existing brushwood fencing products, and I’m confident within the next 5 years both of these products will be well established within the market.
I’m really passionate about the work I do and the construction industry as a whole. I would love if there were opportunities down the line to do some form of project management.
If you could write a letter to a 13-year-old ‘you’ what would you say?
Our life has different stages and cycles, so enjoy this stage and don’t be in a hurry to grow up.
Throughout the hardships focus on the positives and fun times; the memories you make now will be precious to you one day for all sorts of reasons.
Remember the detours in life make us stronger and if you’re lucky enough to have wise people around you, utilise their knowledge and wisdom; it’ll help you make better life choices and decisions.
Always try to be true to yourself and ignore the negative comments by others.
Think positive, stay focused and be motivated!
What are 3 skills you have had to develop to get to where you are presently?
There are many skills I’ve had to develop throughout my career, but the 3 most prominent ones would be the following; Planning & Forecasting: This has assisted me with determining the direction of the company, scheduling works and the ability to budget.
Communication & Negotiation: Communication is essential for strong relationships with your clients, but also your staff and suppliers.
Learning to negotiate with clients and staff over the years is an integral part of the business to ensure the best possible outcomes for all concerned.
Willingness to take Calculated Risks: This is fundamental in trying to grow the company and not stay stagnate. I try to determine the needs of clients and distinguish areas within the company that need growth; thus creating strategic plans for our long term goals.
