Joanna doesn't do anything by halves. When she isn't climbing mountains or skiing down them, she's working on some of the business' most prestigious development projects. Since joining Mace in 2014, Joanna has completed Mace's Graduate Development Programme and after working on the transformation of the Olympic Park moved to the development team in 2017.
How did you get into what you do?
I studied architecture at university, and as part of that I got to experience designing and building a nursery school in South Africa - I even laid some of the bricks! After graduating, I worked at a local construction management firm, then spent some time travelling. It was then that I decided that I didn't want to go into architecture, but I knew I'd return to the construction world.
I was attracted to Mace because I knew I'd get to work on exciting projects with talented people, and because of the support and training provided through Mace's graduate programme.
I started my Mace career in the consultancy division and got to work on some great projects, including project managing residential developments.
In 2017 I moved into the development team where I working on a large scale development on the Isle of Dogs.
What do you enjoy most about your role at Mace?
I work with a range of people, from designers, to planners, to contractors. Everyone has different skills and different ways of working, which means that from one day to the next I can be involved in such a variety of work - it really keeps me on my toes. The very best part of the job though, has to be seeing a project turn into built reality, especially after all the hard work that goes into making that happen.
What has been your favourite piece of work at Mace?
I feel lucky to have been part of the team that is delivering Olympicopolis, a new cultural and residential development on the Olympic Park site. As part of my role, I worked with high-profile partners including Sadler's Wells, the London College of Fashion and the V&A Museum. I'm immensely proud of what we achieved and what the team is continuing to deliver.
What advice would you give to someone looking to get into what you do?
Get relevant work experience, learn about the industry and visit construction sites - that's the place to learn. The graduate programme at Mace is a great stepping stone when building a career in construction. Don't be afraid to get out there and apply, even if you don't have a construction related background or qualification.
What are you passionate about outside of work?
Anything that involves being outdoors: running, cycling, swimming, climbing, skiing, hiking. If I could do my job and a ski season at the same time that would be ideal.
What has been your greatest achievement?
After I graduated I climbed to Everest base camp. It was pretty crazy and more than a little cold. I'd always wanted to do it and it turned out to be the most amazing experience. In 2017 I ran the London marathon for Diabetes UK, it was incredibly difficult but I felt really proud to have completed it and I managed to raise £3500 with the help of the Mace Foundation!
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