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<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\nAmong the first steps in each of these projects is for Concor to engage intensely with local structures of government and community members, to understand more about the area where the project will be located, he explains. This paves the way for compiling a database of skills availability, local businesses and for Concor to understand the dynamics of the community to ensure the company develops a trust relationship which is critical to the success of the project. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIn addition to the small businesses from which we procure, we also draw our general workers for each project from the area we work in,\u201d he says. \u201cWe talk to representatives from the nearby towns and villages to ensure that there is an equitable distribution of opportunities, while we also seek out the best available skills.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At the same time, there is usually the need for work site training \u2013 such as health and safety, first aid and induction \u2013 which to a certain extent upskills these workers and makes them more employable when they seek their next jobs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In balancing its social contribution with its professional reputation and workmanship, Concor must ensure that the quality of its project deliverables is in no way compromised. Mayet highlights how the company focuses on the close and systematic supervision of all subcontractors, through its permanent team of experienced site managers, foremen and artisans. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cSupervision is in fact an important aspect of the mentoring that we provide to small businesses who partner with us,\u201d he says. \u201cWe help them to hone their construction-related skills, so they can participate more competitively in their markets.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nAn important building block of any business in the construction sector, for instance, is its grading with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB). As a business moves up the nine CIDB grading levels, it can tender for projects of increasing value. Vital to any business\u2019s progress to the next grade is its ability to improve its track record of actual projects competed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe work constructively with emerging subcontractors to improve their profitability, systems and expertise, and to successfully complete their scope of work with us,\u201d he says. \u201cThey are often able to achieve a better grading on the strength of our collaboration.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mayet emphasises the challenging but positive role of the Community Liaison Officer on each of its projects. The CLO is a community-based person appointed by Concor to help ensure that the company and community can work together and meet their common goals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cOn every project, we upskill people and allow small businesses to gain more experience \u2013 which are the basic steps toward economic transformation,\u201d he concludes.<\/p>\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Despite difficult market conditions in South Africa\u2019s construction sector, Concor has never shied away from its commitment to social and economic transformation, which includes the strengthening of small businesses in areas where the company has projects underway. According to Sheldon Mayet, Senior Transformation Manager at Concor, the procurement, skills development and recruitment process are valuable … Continue reading CONSTRUCTION TRANSFORMS THROUGH SHARING SKILLS, EXPERIENCE<\/span>