Novus Excellence Awards: Going the extra mile

Congratulations to the 25 employees who have won Novus Excellence Awards this quarter! The awards acknowledge and highlight those employees who go above and beyond in their role. In this blog, four Novus employees from across the country share their Excellence Awards stories.

James Riley – Wrexham

I joined Novus as an apprentice painter a year ago and have come a long way in that time. I was delighted when I was selected to represent the UK at the Uniep Legacy Event in the Netherlands earlier this year. The event involved a team of painters and decorators from across Europe coming together to develop their skills and test the latest painting products at Akzo Nobel’s head office. We also took part in a charity project to refurbish a school. Mike Demattia, my line manager, said he cannot speak more highly of me and that my attitude, work rate and willingness to learn are all first class, which I’m really proud of.
James is on the far left of our photo.

Mick Morgan – Romford

I’m a senior contracts supervisor and have been with Novus for five years, working on decent homes and refurbishment contracts. I live in social housing, so feel that I’m in a unique position of being able to relate to this type of work from both a customer and contractor point of view. Working for Novus is all about going the extra mile, which results in repeat business. I went the extra mile recently when a vulnerable elderly lady had a new kitchen fitted by us. She took the opportunity to purchase some new kitchen appliances, but was struggling to get them installed and was also very worried about not knowing the people who would install them. As me and my team had built the trust up with this resident, we collected and fitted the appliances meaning she could start enjoying her kitchen straight away.

Randolph Simpson – Preston

Having worked for Novus for about 40 years, I’m one of the company’s longest-serving employees. My line manager has described me as a first-class tradesman, a nice guy, honest, hardworking and a great role model, which I find very satisfying! An example of when I went the extra mile was when I got speaking to a resident at a housing scheme I was working for. I discovered that she sat on a bench outside her house every day and noticed it was looking a bit tired. So even though I was on a tight schedule to complete the contracted works, I spent my lunch time to repaint the bench and bring it back to its former glory!

Kevin McGee – Bathgate 

On a key contract I was working on, some problems were experienced on site and I took it upon myself to lead the rest of the painting team working on that job. I ensured the programme of work was completed smoothly and ahead of time, while meeting Novus’ usual high standards. My operations manager said he was impressed with my commitment and drive and I’ve received my Excellence Award for my hardworking, professional and modest attitude to work, which I’m delighted about!