Meet Noah Edmondson-Stocks, Site Manager

Joining ISG in 2020, site manager, Noah Edmondson-Stocks, forms part of ISG’s early careers talent within our UK retail division.

While he’s still in the early phases of his ISG career – and his working career more broadly – Noah’s been an instrumental addition to the delivery teams of some of the business unit’s biggest retail projects. Currently based onsite in Manchester, working on a mixed-use office space.

Whether it’s fitting out an office for an industry-leading banking client, or building out from the empty shell of a new food outlet in the high street, Noah’s fresh ideas and keen eye for design makes him one to watch in the retail space.

With his vision firmly focused on the future of fit out in the retail market, Noah shares his insights into the design trends and people-focused drivers forming part of the project delivery for the nation’s most well-respected retail brands…

Noah, first of all, can you shed some light on what initially drew you to the built environment?

I’ve always had an interest in the field, so I took part in a work experience initiative in a joinery shop when I was 16 and really enjoyed being in a hands on role.

So when it came to looking at options for further education, I was interested in pursuing this path further; ultimately going to Leeds Beckett University to study BSc. Construction Management. This was a great choice for me because I was able to gain a really good understanding of all the moving pieces that form part of a building’s delivery. Covering a whole range of topics, from sustainability to contracts laws!

What project are you working on at the minute?

I’m currently working on the delivery of a mixed use office space, which is really setting the bar high.

The reception space boasts a 23 metre, curved digital screen to welcome its people and to be used for the clear and easy display of important information for staff and guests. We’ve also brought in the addition of a brand new coffee bar and communal seating to help further enhance client and employee experience.

The introduction of high ceilings, terrazzo floor tiles and hanging acoustic panels brings a high-end design to the building’s empty shell. Bringing in a modern layout to the space, the tiered seating in the breakout area and brand new mezzanine with tiered seating brings a more collaborative and open feel for the various tenants that will occupy the communal spaces.

What’s been the best project you’ve worked on so far?

My favourite project so far was for an office fit out for one of the nation’s leading banks. There was a huge scale of mechanical and electrical engineering involved, which required a lot of meticulous planning and overnight works to complete – but it was a massive sense of achievement to complete.

The design of the space however was definitely what made the project for me. Everything from the large bespoke kitchen design to the raft ceilings, the modern café area to the hanging baskets and planters, the whole space was engineered to bring an opulent yet earthy feel. Perfect for welcoming the bank’s colleagues and clients back to the space following the pandemic.

What excites you most about the built environment and the direction it’s heading in?

The dynamic nature of fit out in the offices market is really exciting right now. More and more we’re seeing businesses focusing less on traditional workplace designs and amenities, and more on creating versatile and collaborative spaces that helps drive creativity and entices people back to the office (following the pandemic).

This desire to create something that makes employees want to return to the office is not just felt through the office design, but also through the inclusion of more social amenities and wellbeing elements.

We’re seeing a lot of brands placing stronger importance on including things like comfortable break out areas for staff to socialise, cafes, and more green elements, to help enhance wellbeing and happiness at work. Which will really benefit brands with regards to employee retention and will help to leave a more positive legacy with the people that use their spaces.

When do you feel proudest at work?

Being able to calmly and carefully manage the strict deadlines and fast paced nature of fit out – both by myself and as part of a wider team – is when I feel the biggest sense of pride.

I enjoy the process, not just the end goal. There’s lots of potential for disruption, noise and challenges, but I like that every job I’m on throws something different into the mix. For me, I feel like I’ve achieved something great when my team and I are able to successfully manage this state of flux to deliver something spectacular.

Also, if you get the opportunity to actually see the space being utilised, that’s always a proud moment for me. A lot of work goes into every delivery, so it’s great to see people using it and enjoying your hard work.

How does ISG deliver on client needs and overcome industry challenges?

The reason why – I feel – ISG is so successful, is because we are dynamic.

I’ve worked with a huge array of people since I joined, coming from a whole range of different backgrounds and experiences; which really helps to bring diverse ideas and different skillsets to our projects.

I also think that part of the reason the business has such a good track record with repeat business is because our people genuinely care about what matters to our clients. ISG is built on a strong foundation of core corporate values, and this really shines through the work of so many people across the business.

What are your top tips for other young people who are looking to build a successful career in construction?

It’s an ever-evolving and growing sector with so many routes in, so if you’re open minded and eager to learn then you can build a great career in this industry.

Also, never stop asking questions to people with more experience – it’s the only way you’ll learn!