Celebrating a decade of dedication, the 5% Club, founded by Balfour Beatty in 2013, marks a significant milestone in the mission to combat the UK’s skills shortage. A collection of employers with a shared vision, industries working in a cohesive manner with one another and support from senior leaders in the industry and UK Government to drive apprenticeships forward. The spotlight shines on the invaluable impact the 5% club have made on apprenticeships across the nation, one stand-out example is Anthony Jordan from the Danny Sullivan Group.
During The 5% Club’s reception celebrating all its members, it was noted: our apprentices weren’t finishing their training. In an added demonstration of leadership support for apprenticeships, an innovative new programme was – a one-year mentoring program. This program is all about giving apprentices the support they need to succeed, guided by industry leaders.
Anthony Jordan, who is currently training to be a Groundworker, was recognised as one of the top ten apprentices in the country, leading to being awarded the Founders Pledge Award. This prestigious accolade goes to the person who goes above and beyond, overcomes challenges, and works to the best of their ability. Anthony’s work on the Balfour Beatty VINCI HS2 Project in Birmingham not only showed his impressive skill set, but also how much apprenticeships can change lives and neighbourhoods.
Tim O’Sullivan, Managing Director at Danny Sullivan Group, is thrilled to be Anthony’s mentor: “It’s a privilege to guide and support out the next generation of workers and make an impact on our industry for better.” At the Danny Sullivan Group, helping apprentices and giving them chances to learn on the job as of paramount importance. When joining the 5% Club earlier this year, DSG made a commitment to making sure more people in the UK get the chance to learn useful skills for work, aiding in tackling the skills shortage and ensuring we have a workforce of talented workers for a bright future.
Embarking on an 18-month Level 3 Business Administration course might sound challenging, but for Becky, it was the gateway to a stream of possibilities. Her apprenticeship journey kicked off in March 2022, where she gained essential skills that set the foundation for her career.
Becky’s commitment to taking on an apprenticeship was unwavering. The course was challenging, but the qualification she would obtain at the end, made the push worth it. Regional support from her colleagues at the Danny Sullivan Group (DSG) and Skanska Costain Strabag (SCS) armed her with two years of industry experience which laid the groundwork for career success.
With three days at DSG and two days with SCS, Becky seamlessly transitioned into her apprenticeship, learning on the job with one dedicated apprentice workday per week – a true “learn while you earn” experience. Becky’s big leap into a new role with DSG as a Regional Support Partner was supported by Ruairi Coffey, DSG’s Head of Social Value, Skills, and People Development, and Noel Burns, Head of Operational Delivery, due to her completing her apprenticeship course with flying colours.
Looking ahead, the next few years promise exciting opportunities for Becky as she hopes to venture into the operations team as a Labour Manager. Undertaking this apprenticeship boosted Becky’s confidence levels, one of the key takeaways from her apprenticeship, empowering her to pursue ambitious career goals.
But Becky’s story doesn’t end with her own success. Inspired by her journey, she played a pivotal role in encouraging her colleague, Katie Ryan, to embark on the same apprenticeship course. For Becky, it’s not just about personal achievement; it’s about inspiring others to embrace the apprenticeship route and its fantastic opportunities.
Becky emphasises the concept of “Skills for Life” gained through her apprenticeship – a boost in confidence, acquisition of new skills, and the expansion of knowledge both inside and outside the workplace. Having completed a Travel & Tourism course in 2020, Becky recognises that the real-world experience gained through apprenticeships surpasses traditional classroom learning.
In her own words, “enrolling in the L3 Essential Site Skills – Business Admin apprenticeship in partnership with DSG was one of the best decisions I ever made. Even in moments of doubt, the support and guidance available helped me navigate through challenges, emerging stronger and more prepared for the world of work.”
Becky’s story is a testament to the transformative power of apprenticeships, proving that the journey may be challenging, but undeniably rewarding. For those considering the apprenticeship path, Becky’s experience is a testament to the incredible possibilities that unfold when you choose to learn, grow, and succeed through apprenticeships.
To find out about our latest apprentice programmes, please contact our training department at: training@dannysullivan.co.uk or call 0208 961 1900
Or visit https://www.dannysullivan.co.uk/employees/apprenticeships/
The Danny Sullivan Group are pleased to announce the appointment of White-Collar Recruitment Manager, Jimmy Holly.
Jimmy has over ten years of industry expertise, holding numerous senior recruitment positions and brings a wealth of knowledge – ensuring the Danny Sullivan Group continues in its endeavor to deliver a first-class recruitment service.
Jimmy said: “Delighted to be joining such a progressive and well-respected company. Danny Sullivan Group are definitely doing things differently in the recruitment space and I am looking forward to expanding their scope of work on the white-collar side across the UK”.
Jimmy’s appointment with the Danny Sullivan Group cements our commitment to delivering enhanced customer-focused business solutions, creating more opportunities for the many communities we serve across our office and on-the-ground functions.
More information on our Professional Workforce Services
At the heart of the Danny Sullivan Group lies a commitment to fostering an environment where all employees not only excel but exceed. In a recent conversation, Resourcer, Katie Keary, sheds light on her experience working at The Danny Sullivan Group, and the impact this has had on her career.
Katie said: “At DSG there is a genuine opportunity for career growth and a real sense of belonging. The family atmosphere within the business is a driving force behind both my personal and professional development. Feeling part of any team is essential for your own growth potential and being part DSG means you are part of a team where everyone is recognised, achievements celebrated, and potential is nurtured and valued.
There are so many learning opportunities available through DSG Academy. DSG’s learning and development academy. With hundreds of courses to choose from, your learning potential is endless, and this has a huge impact on your earning potential as well. If you are considering a career in construction, I would encourage you to take the leap and get in touch. It has been the best career decision for me – and it could be for you too!”
At The Danny Sullivan Group we pay well, we pay on time, and you get to learn while you earn with excellent career progression opportunities available. We nurture our workforce to become future masters in their field through ongoing training, upskilling and promotion.
See our latest video featuring team members talking about their experiences working at The Danny Sullivan Group and discover how you can play a part in building a better future for generations to come by joining us today.
We’re now hiring in the South West of England and have the following roles available:
You’ll be part of a team who will work together to transform the Devonport Dockyard in Plymouth, into a maintenance centre for large maritime vehicles including submarines at the UK’s largest dockyard.
These jobs offer real, long term career prospects given the lifespan of the project which is anticipated to run for many years, and you’ll be working for an award-winning company, too.
At the Danny Sullivan Group we pay well, we pay on time, and you get to learn while you earn with excellent career progression opportunities available. You also get access to hundreds of courses through our training division, DSG Academy.
This is a fantastic opportunity for those with relevant experience. Register your details now so you’re first to be contacted by a member of our team – or visit our job board where you’ll find our latest jobs.
The Danny Sullivan Group (DSG) achieved a significant milestone in its commitment to IT security recently by being awarded the Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation, placing the company in the top 1% of businesses across the country who meet such standards.
The accreditation was awarded following many months of rigorous testing of DSG’s IT systems where the company demonstrated the existence of robust security procedures and passed stringent evaluation and testing of the company’s cybersecurity infrastructure.
With increased digitisation, the risk of cyber-attack becomes more likely. As an organisation, DSG takes this risk very seriously and we are proactive in how we manage it. Our data, and that of our customers and people, is a major asset and our governance around protecting that is now being recognised as best in class.
Our customers rightfully expect nothing less and we are delighted to provide them with the assurance and trust that their assets are in safe hand.
DSG’s Information Technology Manager, Reza Mohammadiha, who played an instrumental part in securing the accreditation said of the achievement:
“This makes us even better at working with big clients like the Ministry of Defence and government groups. This certification isn’t just about protecting us – it shows our clients that we’re tough against cyber threats. Getting Cyber Essentials Plus isn’t just about cybersecurity. It’s about us promising to always bring our A-game.”
We are now hiring for big projects in the East of England and have the following roles available:
You’ll be working on important projects like Sizewell C, a new nuclear power station that will help the UK to reach its net zero target and provide clean green energy for generations – or making roads better such as the A47 and A12 and helping to improve local infrastructure.
These jobs are located across the East of England, including Ipswich, Norwich, Great Yarmouth, Stowmarket, Lowestoft, Thetford, and Colchester.
You don’t always need special training for some of these roles, but if you do, we can often help you get the right training you need.
Thousands of people choose to work with The Danny Sullivan Group. We are an award winning company, we pay well, we pay on time and you get to learn while you earn with excellent career progression opportunities.
To apply, visit our job board or register your details now to ensure you receive our latest job alerts – so you never miss out on an opportunity.
In a heartwarming display of community support and social responsibility, The Danny Sullivan Group partnered with SCS to bring about a transformative revamp of The Soup Kitchen, a cherished Camden-based charity that extends a helping hand to the homeless. This uplifting initiative showcases how collective efforts can drive positive change and make a significant impact on the lives of those in need.
The Soup Kitchen, nestled within the American International Church on Tottenham Court Road, has long been a haven for hundreds of homeless individuals seeking not only nutritious meals but also a sense of belonging, access to clothing, toiletries, and other vital outreach services.
In recent times the organisation has faced challenges that hindered its ability to offer these essential services. One issue was the lack of proper storage space. Additionally, the dining area’s access was compromised due to deteriorated decking, and the outdated electrical system posed risks with equipment malfunctions.
Recognising the need for a transformation, SCS’s outreach volunteers, who distribute food and essentials to those unable to visit the centre, identified these problems firsthand. The situation had become more critical than ever, as the number of individuals requiring assistance surged significantly due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Stepping up to lead this revamp were Louise Dailly, the Head of Social Sustainability, and Ricky Prett, the Works Manager at SCS. Working alongside several key members of the supply chain, including Danny Sullivan Group, Wingate, Speedy Hire, McGinley, and VGC, we were able to not only contributed essential materials but also dedicated our time to make this transformative project a reality.
The Danny Sullivan Group are proud to note that three of our employees; Ryan Oliver, foreman, Gerard Barry, pipelayer, and Eamonn Horan, carpenter were involved in this fantastic project.
The impact of volunteers and professionals harnessing their skills and resources to provide essential improvements has seen outstanding results. Additional storage space was created, ensuring that resources could be better organised and accessed.
The outdated electrical system was replaced, reducing potential hazards and increasing operational efficiency. The installation of new decking not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the dining area but also improved accessibility, ensuring a dignified experience for those who depend on The Soup Kitchen’s services.
This heartwarming initiative is a testament to the power of community collaboration, social responsibility, and corporate empathy.
The Danny Sullivan Group alongside SCS and other dedicated supply chain partners, have not only revamped a physical space but also uplifted spirits, restored dignity, and amplified the impact of The Soup Kitchen’s vital mission.
Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the construction industry? An apprenticeship with the Danny Sullivan Group could be your steppingstone to success.
Apprenticeships offer a unique blend of on-the-job training and academic learning, allowing you to gain practical skills while earning a wage. Working for the Danny Sullivan Group as an apprentice will provide you with a solid foundation for a successful career, offering real-world experience that employers value.
At the Danny Sullivan Group, we’re committed to nurturing the next generation of construction professionals. Our apprenticeships are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to thrive in the construction industry.
By choosing an apprenticeship with us, you’ll not only gain valuable skills and experience but also enjoy a range of benefits. You’ll earn a competitive wage while learning, have access to professional development opportunities delivered through our training division, DSG Academy, and receive support and guidance from experienced mentors.
For more information and to apply, visit the DSG Job Board
The Danny Sullivan Group, the leading supplier of skilled, professional labour in the UK has been awarded GOLD ERS for its exceptional effort in supporting members of the Armed Forces community transitioning to a career in construction.
The Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) honours those employers who provide exceptional support to the armed forces community by going above and beyond their covenant pledges.
Bearing the mark of the Gold ERS underpins and demonstrates our commitment to service leavers. Not only are we there to support them in terms of building knowledge about our industry, we are passionate about ensuring they have access to job opportunities in which they can utilise their unique skillsets to build long term careers in our exciting sector.
Tim O’Sullivan, Managing Director of Danny Sullivan Group said:
“I am incredibly honoured that the Danny Sullivan Group has been awarded the highest standard of Gold ERS which recognises our commitment to the armed forces veterans. Armed forces personnel play an important part in bringing valuable skills to the construction industry. The Gold ERS further underpins our formalised approach of being an open and inclusive employer, attracting the best talent to meet customer needs and support in the delivery of world class infrastructure projects”.
At the Danny Sullivan Group:
Our combined Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) and Fair, Inclusion and Respect (FIR) policy is fully compliant with the Equality Act 2010. In March 2019, we became the first UK Labour Supplier in the construction industry to achieve the CITB Be Fair accreditation.
The ERS scheme was launched in 2014 to recognise organisations who pledge, demonstrate, and advocate their support to the Armed Forces community. There are three award levels, Bronze, Silver, and Gold for employers who advocate support in accordance with the Armed Forces Covenant.
To achieve Gold status an employer must meet a number of criterias as outlined on the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme website.
Further announcements will be made in the coming months and an official ceremony will take place in October. The Danny Sullivan Group signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2018 with a commitment to honour the Armed Forces Community, recognising the value serving personnel contribute to the business and community.
