Meet Mike
Mike and his sister grew up in Christchurch NZ. His father owned a chemical manufacturing company, while his mother worked in an accounting role. A keen sportsman from a young age, Mike enjoyed playing soccer, cricket and rugby.
Mike completed his studies at the University of Canterbury and in 2008 was recruited for a job at Northrop. He had little prior knowledge about the firm, yet nine years later he’s proud to still be here, attributing it to “the people, hands down, irrefutable.”
Always a self-starter, Mike has valued the opportunity to work autonomously. “As a work environment, Northrop’s flexibility and open mindedness allow you to grab opportunities if you choose to. You need to be self-driven, and that’s welcomed and encouraged, but no one is going to push you if you’re not willing to do the work yourself. The onus is on the employee,” he says.
Years of experience across a variety of roles have provided him with a well-rounded view of how we operate, and how we can improve or grow to better supply the market. It’s this perspective that has helped to shape Mike for the role of Principal. “I’m idealistic – I think that’s what drives me to improve things where I believe they can be enhanced and succeed where I believe it’s possible,” he says.
Mike sees his new role as business as usual. “Nothing should change because I’ve always worked as if I’ve owned my business”, he says. He is a firm believer that being owner operated benefits clients because it shows we ‘walk the talk’. As principal, “I’m still walking the talk and working on my projects and being the first point of call if necessary.”
Away from work, you’ll likely find Mike pottering around in the garage, taking an evening swim in the river followed by a relaxing beer. And well deserved. Congratulations Mike!