Having joined the business in the mid-1990s as a joiner, Paul Starritt has spent almost three decades building experience across construction, site management and, more recently, the private rented sector.

Q: Tell us a bit about your career journey.

I joined the business in the mid-1990s as a joiner, back when the company was focused on housebuilding.

Over the years, I worked my way through a range of roles, including Assistant Site Manager, Site Manager, Senior Site Manager and Contracts Manager. I've worked across a few different parts of the business and picked up a lot from the people I've worked with.

I never really set out with a grand plan. If an opportunity came along to learn something new or take on a different challenge, I generally gave it a go. Looking back, taking on different roles and challenges probably helped me build the experience I've got today.

Q: What does your role as PRS Contracts Manager involve?

No two days are the same, which is probably what I enjoy most about it.

I work closely with Jacqueline Primrose, Head of PRS, as well as our external suppliers and contractors. Depending on the day, I could be inspecting properties, overseeing maintenance work, carrying out health and safety checks or supporting the handover of new homes into the portfolio.

A lot of the role is about making sure things are done properly and that we're getting the standards we expect. Having spent most of my career on site, I know what good looks like and can draw on that experience every day.

Q: Looking back on your career, what would you say has been the biggest highlight?

Without doubt, being involved in the City Legacy development for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

At the time, I was working in the housebuilding side of the business and it was a huge honour to be asked to take on the site. The development was delivered through the City Legacy joint venture, bringing together Mactaggart & Mickel and three other partners, and it was a fantastic project to be involved in.

There were a lot of moving parts, tight deadlines and plenty of challenges along the way. It definitely gave me a few more grey hairs, but looking back, those are the projects you learn the most from.

Having grown up in the area, it meant a lot to go back and be involved in something that would have such a positive impact on the community. It wasn't just another development. There was a real feeling that we were helping create something that would leave a lasting legacy for Glasgow.

That's probably the project I'm proudest to have been involved in during my career.

Q: What's the biggest lesson you've learned throughout your career?

I've always liked the saying that you've got two ears and one mouth, so use them in that proportion.

You can learn a lot from the people around you if you're prepared to listen, whether that's colleagues, contractors or customers. You can pick something up from just about everybody if you're prepared to listen.

I'd also say don't be afraid to get stuck in. Most of what I've learned throughout my career has come from taking on new challenges and gaining experience as I went.

Q: Do you have any hobbies?

Q: What do you enjoy doing outside work?

I enjoy spending time with my partner, Evelyn, as well as family and friends, watching football, playing golf and getting out on my motorbike whenever I get the chance. I also enjoy travelling and getting away whenever I can, whether that's a city break or a longer holiday somewhere a bit warmer.