Steve Morris is the Area Manufacturing Manager for the hot end at our Scunthorpe Rod Mill (SRM). He has worked with the company for 27 years in various roles across different locations.
What did you do before joining British Steel and why did you join?
Before joining British Steel I sat my A-Levels at college with the intention of going to University but a friend of mine told me of a temporary job opening at the company so I applied and managed to get the role on a temporary 6 month basis. This was in 1997 and 27 years later I’m still here! I worked at Brimsworth Strip Mills in Rotherham for over 8 years before transferring to the Scunthorpe Rod Mill (SRM) in 2006 when the business gave me the opportunity to develop in various roles within our mill before eventually moving into the role I have today.
What does your day-to-day role involve?
I work as the Area Manufacturing Manager for the hot end at the SRM. I see my day-to-day role as being a link between the different aspects of operating our Mill. This can be everything from planning right through the whole production process. I also integrate engineering activities to drive forward improvements which will enable our business to be successful. It’s a big job with several different aspects to it so there is never a dull day in our mill.
What do you enjoy about working at British Steel?
I enjoy making positive changes on the mill and seeing the progression and improvements people make. I also try to pass that on to colleagues by trying to create an environment that means they can come to work and enjoy what they do.
I also really like the dynamic and fast-paced process of the mill. The speed in which a cold bloom is turned into wire rod, changing a semi-finished product into a finish product is something I enjoy to see. And then knowing that the finished product made at our mill will go into a vast number of different sectors is something else I like to see. Knowing the product we produce and the service we supply satisfies our customers drives everyone at the mill to continue what we’re doing and even improve, and it’s a very rewarding feeling.
What are your proudest achievements so far?
I’ve had lots of proud moments throughout my time at British Steel. Overcoming difficult obstacles along the way is part of the journey and brings me a lot of satisfaction. My move to the SRM was a huge step into the unknown but the people made it so much easier than I expected. Then progressing through the ranks from Operator to Shift Manager was a really proud achievement for me.
Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years’ time within British Steel?
I believe it will be an exciting time for the business over the next few years as the business progresses to meet our plans and targets. To be a part of that and help to build a sustainable future for our company is something I want to contribute towards.