Oliver Gordon

• Trained new staff members on laboratory processes and procedures, ensuring quick adaptation and adherence to established protocols.
• Coached team members through new or difficult workflows, fostering skill development and operational efficiency.
• Managed a team of 10 employees during the course of the year.
• Mediated disputes and facilitated open communication to maintain team cohesion and productivity.
• Attended weekly operational meetings to review laboratory progress, address challenges, and align team goals with company objectives.
• Coordinated with senior management to plan staffing schedules around employee absences, ensuring uninterrupted lab operations.
• Managed all laboratory orders, including raw materials, stock, and PPE, ensuring timely procurement and consistent inventory levels.
• Conducted daily moisture content calculations, providing the batching team with accurate moisture-corrected batching numbers.
• Developed and implemented safety protocols, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Led health and safety training sessions for laboratory staff, promoting a culture of safety and awareness.
• Conducted regular risk assessments and safety audits to identify hazards and mitigate risks in the lab.
• Monitored and reported on safety performance, tracking incidents and recommending improvements to prevent recurrence.
• Managed the safe handling and disposal of hazardous materials, ensuring environmental and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinated emergency response plans and drills to ensure preparedness for any lab incidents.
• Conducted informative tours for investors, showcasing laboratory facilities, processes, and innovations.
• Organized and coordinated company events, including Christmas parties, to enhance team morale and foster a positive workplace culture.
• Delegated tasks to make best use of individuals' skills.

In the role of Laboratory Technician at Concretene, a pioneering start-up developing a concrete graphene additive, responsibilities included mixing the Concretene formulation into concrete, preparing samples, and conducting tests at various curing ages. The objective was to reduce embodied carbon by increasing the strength of concrete, allowing for a reduction in cement usage.

As the first technician to join the lab, played a critical role in establishing and refining laboratory systems and processes, resulting in enhanced efficiency and the delivery of high-quality, reproducible results. These efforts laid the groundwork for a solid foundation in research and testing protocols.

Contributions to the development of laboratory operations and testing methods led to a promotion to Laboratory Team Leader. In this new role, responsibilities expanded to include oversight of team operations and the management of daily laboratory functions. Following this progression, NEBOSH training was completed and a transition was made into the role of Health and Safety Lead, with a focus on ensuring compliance with safety regulations, conducting risk assessments, and maintaining a safe working environment across all laboratory activities.

While working in a fast-paced restaurant environment, developed strong communication skills by interacting with customers daily, taking orders, and serving meals while ensuring that their needs were met with efficiency and professionalism. Responsible for upholding high hygiene standards, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Gained valuable insight into restaurant management, including key operational elements such as inventory control, staff coordination, and maintaining service quality. Actively contributed to a positive and collaborative team environment, helping to boost morale and enhance overall team performance, which was essential for maintaining smooth and efficient daily operations.

In Year 12, visited AECOM's office in Manchester to deepen passion for civil engineering. Gained valuable experience in a design office, using AutoCAD to develop drainage plans for a real-world project. Engaged with top engineers, gaining insights into their roles and receiving guidance on skill development in the field. This experience solidified the commitment to pursuing a career in engineering.