George Russell took home the GIB Supreme Award at the 2023 NZ Building People Awards. George is a Project Manager at Wilson Commercial and won for his work leading the Samoa High Commission project in Te Whanganui-a-Tara | Wellington.
We asked George a few quick questions to get to know him a little better.
What did your NZ Building People Awards win mean to you?
I was very proud and honored to be awarded both category and supreme award at the NZ Building People Awards 2023. What makes it special for me is being recognized by industry, as industry understands the challenges and commitment construction projects take.
What is one thing you love about your job?
I enjoy the variety commercial projects offer. Both through the life cycle of a project and from project to project. Each phase of the project has its own unique challenges, and it is rewarding as milestones are achieved through the journey.
What is one change you would love to see made in the building industry in NZ?
People perceptions. This one word can impact the industry in so many ways. From how people view the industry as a career, to how main contractors are perceived within and outside of the industry, to how people view each other’s roles and responsibilities through the construction process. This is a labyrinth of a topic that I could go on about.,
Who inspires you in the Building Industry and why?
One person who inspires me is my boss, Grant Taylor. He has a very busy mind and is always thinking about buildability, efficiency, and practicality ten steps ahead. Also, for him to take these skills having worked for tier one contractors and deciding to take a leap of faith to start up the commercial division of Wilson’s is also inspiring.
What are you reading/watching/listening to at the moment?
In my down time I enjoy watching outdoors and sports shows. Namely NRL, Southern Seas Spearo, or 4WD 24/7. The other thing I enjoy watching is sports documentaries, as there are many similarities I feel we can draw on to the construction industry and leadership. Determination, drive, overcoming challenges, and various management styles. I have recently finished watching Swamp Kings on Netflix and am in the process of watching Quarterback.
