From the FM Frontline to the NIK Delivery Team: Welcome, Charles Dodds

Torque IP is thrilled to welcome Charles Dodds to the NIK delivery team. Charles joins us from PFM, where he worked directly on the Ngā Iti Kahurangi programme, bringing with him a depth of knowledge about NIK and the wider facilities management space that will be a genuine asset to the team. Based in Hamilton, Charles will be working alongside Mathew and Patrick as the team settles into the BGIS offices. We put some questions to Charles to find out more about what brought him to Torque IP and what makes him tick.

You've come to Torque IP having already worked on Ngā Iti Kahurangi. How does that experience shape the way you'll approach your role here?

I’m excited to learn the ways Torque IP approach a project and where beneficial, provide insights from my previous experience to help improve the outcomes of the programme.  My previous experience with this programme also makes the transition to working at Torque IP faster.

For those who might not be familiar, what would you say is the most important thing people should understand about the NIK programme and what it's trying to achieve?

The NIK programme was created to provide schools the “best bang for buck” on items that a lot of times their funding wouldn’t stretch to.  In engagement with schools the Ministry found schools felt “burdened” by the volume of non-teaching work.  This program sought to un-burden the schools on delivering much-needed projects to improve the environment in classrooms.  The improvements provide warmer, quieter and safer environments in classrooms with the upgrade of LED lighting, RCD protected power points, Insulation, Acoustic treatments and cushioned carpet.  This programme is also targeted at rural and small school who often are disadvantaged when trying to deliver projects, experiencing higher delivery costs due to their small scale, and remote locations.

What drew you to making the move to Torque IP specifically, and what do you hope to contribute to the team?

I’ve worked alongside the team at Torque IP since the beginning of the programme and have been impressed by their professional and co-operative approach to this programme. With the unique arrangement of 3 project management companies all contracted under the same programme of work, it requires a very mature approach to working together.  Moving to Torque IP meant for me, a way to build on that relationship, continue to deliver the NIK programme which delivers such amazing outcomes for fantastic schools and provides a wide range of potential growth avenues within their wider business.  I’ll strive to bring a positive attitude; work to lift the people I work around. I’m a strong believer in “a rising tide lifts all ships”.

Since starting, what is one thing you’ve learnt about Torque IP that has particularly stood out to you?

My introduction to Torque IP’s team has been great,  the team have been welcoming, friendly and helpful.  It’s a testament to the culture Torque IP has fostered.  It reinforces to me that making the move to Torque IP was the right one.

Outside of work, how do you like to spend your time?

My spare time is split between exercise and time with my family.  I have 3 boys aged 12, 12 and 10 and the combination of weekend activities, football games and friends coming over fills up the weekend.  Any time left over I like to get out hiking with an annual pilgrimage to summit Mt Taranaki.  I am also a proponent of having a challenge to work towards each year, something to keep me honest at the gym.  This year it's going to be 55km ultra trail marathon between Thames and Waihi in October.