This week, we’re handing over the blog to W M Donald, one of Scotland’s leading civil engineering and construction firms, who are quickly expanding in the Highlands.
Read on to hear more from Commercial Manager Barry Smeaton about their team, recent projects, and exciting plans for the future.
About W M Donald
Our company was founded in 1977 at Netherley Aberdeenshire by Willie and Elaine Donald. The business has emerged as a corner stone and has steadily grown to become one of Scotland’s leading civil engineering and construction firms.
In response to the growing demand for our services in the Highland Region we opened our new office and operations centre in Inverness in February 2019. This strategic expansion not only demonstrates our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our clients but also shows our investment in the local economy and community.
What began as a modest endeavour has flourished into a prominent entity, boasting a legacy over four decades marked by innovation, integrity and unwavering commitment to “Making it Happen”. We are extremely proud to have 60 skilled employees operating across our sites in the Highland region and 250 employees and 80 Subcontractors operating across Scotland. We have been a Living Wage and Living Hours employer for over two years, have signed the Young Person’s Guarantee, and our HR Manager Manager Rachel is a Developing Young Workforce ambassador.
As we continue to navigate the dynamic landscape of the civil engineering and construction industry, we remain focused in our pursuit of delivering exceptional results and fostering sustainable growth in the Highland Region. Over the next year, we aim to solidify our position as a leading civil engineering and construction firm in the Highlands region. This includes pursuing several significant infrastructure projects, expanding our team of skilled professionals, and exploring opportunities in emerging sectors such as renewable energy and sustainable construction.
Meet Barry Smeaton
Since joining W M Donald in June 2021 as the Commercial Manager based in Inverness, I have been deeply committed to driving the company’s growth in this region. With my extensive industry experience and strategic insight, I have focused on expanding our market presence and securing significant projects, enhancing our commercial operations, and fostering strong relationships with key clients and the community.
A significant aspect of my role has been my commitment to supporting local labour and developing the next generation of professionals in Inverness. Under my guidance, we have supported two Trainee Quantity Surveyors, with another one starting this June, and one Trainee Engineer.
I am also a strong advocate for Barnardo’s Works based in Inverness and working in partnership with Patricia Anderson, Employers Liaison & Saco Project Coordinator through which we employed two Modern Apprentices in Civil Engineering and Construction. These apprentices are due to complete their programs this year, a milestone that underscores our dedication to fostering talent and providing valuable opportunities for young people.
Away from work, I enjoy traveling off the beaten path, hillwalking, kayaking and being outdoors.
I take great pride in the contributions I have made to W M Donald’s success and growth in the Inverness area and look forward to continuing this journey.
Make sure your check out Part 2 to find out about W M Donald’s recent awards success – coming soon!