Anthony Sharples started working with us in March 2021 as Operations Manager, Containers, at our Lackenby site on Teesside. Find out more about Anthony and what his role involves...
What was your first role in British Steel and what's been your journey since?
Prior to starting with British Steel in March 2021, I was working for an oil and gas services provider, Halliburton. My role then was Project Coordinator and I was responsible for leading my team of 30 professionals to execute a drilling programme and deliver technical solutions on a $750 million USD Offshore Project. First and foremost, my role was to meet and, wherever possible, exceed our client's safety standards. I was also responsible for ensuring we delivered the service quality our client expected with respect to our drilling services.
I was fortunate be awarded an Award for Most Value-Added Performance (MVP) and Safety Leadership for my first 6 months' contribution to the project mentioned above, also achieving a 100% safety record. I was also able to be part of the Halliburton Leadership Programme where I began the process of attaining my PMP (Project Management Professional) certification.
How long have you been at British Steel and how have you found it so far?
Having only joined British Steel in March 2021, it has certainly been a very challenging time when you consider how the current transport market and energy crisis have affected the steel industry while we're all still navigating through the COVID-19 pandemic. I can honestly say I have enjoyed every minute of my journey so far, working with a breadth of multi-skilled professionals from all over the world who are striving towards building upon the history of our company.
The continuous support of management and my fantastic team has certainly made my transition to British Steel an easy one. It's reassuring to know that many people have devoted their career to British Steel and are still here, very passionate about what they do with a can-do attitude. I’m excited to be a part of this new journey that British Steel's embarked on with Jingye and look forward to contributing to its continued success.
Why did you choose to apply for a job at British Steel?
Personally, I have family that has been part of the company’s history. Knowing that the company invests in its people and that many employees have grown with the business is very reassuring. Alongside the plans of investing in infrastructure, technology and innovative products, there's an exciting future for this business that will retain and attract talent.
In 2021 and with British Steel's support, I was accepted in my pursuit of chartership with the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers. Founded in 1911, the Institute is the professional body for all members of the global commercial shipping industry. I started working towards chartered status at the end of November 2021 after enrolling at the Stockton Riverside College. I attend a weekly evening class there looking into the very basics of shipping right through to port agencies and their safe and secure running of their ships. This course, which is part of my continuous professional development, will strengthen my understanding of shipping and help me gain the skills necessary to remain relevant in my field. And it will also benefit others, especially my team, through sharing this knowledge.
What does your day-to-day role involve?
First and foremost, my role is to ensure we're meeting, and ideally exceeding, the safety standards set out by the company. This could be internally as well as ensuring third party service providers meet the specified standards. I'm also responsible for leading, motivating and supporting my team so they can effectively and efficiently export 120-150kt of British Steel products globally each year.
Other activities include:
What advice would you give to other people considering a career at British Steel?
If you have the right attitude, enjoy a challenge and are looking to build an interesting and exciting career, then British Steel is the place to be! I know I made the right choice.