Meet Stevie, our Joinery Shop Supervisor, based in our Inchinnan Manufacturing Facility.  Celebrating his 25^th anniversary with TJL this year, we thought he would be an excellent person to continue our Meet the TJL Team journey with.

Name: Stephen McManus

Job Title: Workshop Supervisor

How long have you worked at TJL? 25 years in August

You at Work:

What was your first job?

My first job was a paper round when I was a boy and my 2 uncles had an ice cream van and I’d work my summer holidays in the van.

How did you get started in the industry?

I did my apprenticeship (instead of going to art school at Glasgow School of Art) with Harley Shop Fitters in Bishopbriggs – did all 4 years there.  Hated it at first – the woodworking side – was more into art (painting and drawing).

What are you most proud of in your career?

I’m proud of how long I’ve been with TJL and working my way up to Supervisor. I was offered a Site Supervisor job with the company, but I prefer being in the workshop.

Why do you like working at Thomas Johnstone?

Stability and the opportunities; if you’re good at what you do, TJL see you as an asset to the company

Tell us about your favourite project to date.

I really enjoyed working on the Gleneagles project.  We built a lot of bespoke pieces and I really enjoy working on different, detailed projects.

What is the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?

When I was an apprentice, an older gentleman always said to me, “Never doubt your ability.  Other people will do it for you” and “attack every job with a positive frame of mind.”

How do you describe what you do for a living to family and friends?

First and foremost, I’m a bench hand joiner, trained as a carpenter and joiner.  Now I also say I’m the Joinery Supervisor for the workshop. I help the guys do their job and get stuff out and done right.  I still enjoy building, so I don’t want to come off the tools completely though.

What is one thing you wish people knew about your job?

How stressful it can be at times while still being rewarding.  I enjoy getting good feedback from clients.

You Outside of Work:

Tea or Coffee?

Tea in the morning, first thing. Just one a day ☕

What’s your favourite thing to do when you’re not working?

I’m currently teaching myself how to play the guitar again – it’s been many years since I last played.  I also enjoy martial arts and am proud of helping my daughter get her black belt.

Who would you like to swap places with for a day?

I’d like to swap places with David Haddow – I’m curious to see from his perspective the day-to-day running of the company and what goes on.  I respect him for how he’s built himself up to Joint Managing Director.

What song do you have on repeat right now?

Hans Zimmer – the Dark Knight

Tell us something else we don’t know about you.

I’ve known my brother-in-law longer than I’ve known my wife! We were apprentices together and I met her through him. I blame him for the whole thing 😊