Job spotlight: Sharon Rudkin, project manager, Ramesys

What's the best thing about working as a project manager at Ramesys?

No two days are ever the same it's exciting, challenging, sometimes a bit hectic, and very interesting.

The variety of situations I get involved in is huge, from a day at an existing school working on designs and educational impact, to a day on a building site working with architects, site managers and mechanical & engineering teams.

And the worst?

Final deadlines and getting everything co-ordinated so a school can open on time with no loss of learning opportunities.

What sort of person is best suited to this job?

Someone who is resilient, organised, with a good sense of humour, capable of moving fast from situation to situation, energetic and who likes lots of different sorts of people, and is sociable.

What qualifications do you need?

I'm not sure it's generic, but I've got a degree in media and theology. When my CEO visited the site recently we got into a great ethics and philosophy debate. I've also got my Prince 2 qualifications and, of course, a CSCS card.

Do many women work in the sector?

No but there are other female project managers in Ramesys and our construction partners have women working in a variety of roles. It's rare to be the only female at a meeting.

What is a typical day on site?

There isn't one. But last week I was on the current school site co-ordinating supply chain partners and Ramesys staff, and agreeing actions for the day.

We were co-ordinating the ordering and deliveries, checking the financials, solving data migration issues and working with the onsite construction team when, in among it all, we had a random drug and alcohol test, which required me to witness that procedures were properly carried out!

What was your last/favourite job?

The last one, Gorton Education Village in Manchester. A new-build two school site, which includes facilities for students with special educational needs.

What's the typical starting salary for graduates?

I don't know - I would guess about £20k.

What can you expect after 10 years?

I can't wait to find out!

What's a typical career path?

I don't think there is one. I worked in sales in the motor industry for five years (selling components - oil and engine filters).

I joined Ramesys as a junior and internal project manager eight years ago.

Vital stats

Name: Sharon Rudkin

Company: Ramesys

Job: Building Schools for the Future project manager

Key qualifications: Prince 2 qualifications and a CSCS card