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Shining a spotlight on our long-serving employees

31/03/26

It’s no surprise that the secret to our success is down to the people behind the projects. While innovation and growth continue to shape the business, our team’s dedication, expertise and long-standing commitment truly define who we are.

From standout projects to sector changes, and advice they would offer to those entering the world of modular construction, we sat down with some of our long-serving employees to hear their stories and thoughts on the industry today.

Karen Lyon, Fleet Logistics Manager: 45 years at Premier Modular

Over your years at Premier Modular, what is one challenge you faced unlike any other?

“Covid-19 was a pivotal moment for us all as a nation and I was particularly proud to have been involved with our projects supporting the government and NHS. As a business, we helped establish over 50 community testing sites across the UK, significantly increasing national testing capacity at a critical stage of the pandemic. This was delivered despite intense restrictions, supply chain disruptions, personal uncertainty and extremely demanding timescales. Our team’s ability to maintain high standards under such pressure demonstrated the resilience and ability of modular construction at its very best.”

How has the industry changed for the better in recent years?

“One of the most important developments in recent years has been the industry’s stronger commitment to creating safer, high-quality buildings. There’s been a noticeable shift toward improved specifications, greater regulatory awareness and more rigorous compliance standards.”

What advice would you give to someone starting their career at Premier Modular?

“No matter where you begin your journey in, don’t set limits on what you can achieve. Be open to learning at every stage and recognise that growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. Take opportunities to develop new skills and ask questions and remain curious about how the wider organisation operates.”

 

Luke Randall, Key Account Director: 26 years at Premier Modular

What is one project that best represents your work?

“I’ve been fortunate to work on many memorable projects throughout my career but one that truly stands out is Dave’s Shed, which was a purpose-built high-performance training and recovery centre used by Team GB during the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. Its facilities included full medical, physiotherapy and rehabilitation spaces, alongside treatment rooms and shared recovery zones. It’s now widely regarded as a benchmark for integrated athlete performance support.”

How has the modular construction industry evolved over the last 25 years?

“One of the biggest shifts has been in perception. Modular construction is no longer just viewed as a temporary or ‘grey-looking’ option, but as a high-quality, intelligent solution to modern construction challenges. There has also been a strong drive toward raising standards, particularly in the facilities and environments provided on construction sites.”

What’s next for modular construction?

“AI is increasingly being used in so many sectors, so it’s almost certain we will have to find a way to integrate this within our work. As far as bettering the standards of our industry, it’s important we continue to focus on sustainable practices which would allow low-carbon construction to evolve into the standard.”

 

Lee Cook-Walton, Head of Operations: Started as an apprentice and has now been at Premier Modular for 21 years

What’s one notable project you’ve worked on, and why does it stand out?

“It was great to be involved in delivering the rental accommodation for the Greenshaw High School rebuild. This is the largest education rental project in the company’s history, with 186 modules across high-spec spaces like science and arts facilities and really stands out because of its scale, complexity, and the tangible impact on students’ day-to-day learning experience. Projects like that remind you that we’re not just moving modules, we’re creating spaces that genuinely make a difference.”

How has the industry changed for the better since you first started at Premier Modular?

“Since starting with Premier Modular 21 years ago, modular has shifted from being seen as a niche, temporary solution to a mainstream method of construction, recognised for quality, sustainability and performance. The emphasis on ESG and sustainability, including net-zero pathways and greener design, has advanced dramatically, helping modular contribute to broader sustainability and circular-economy goals.”

What advice would you give to someone just starting their career?

“Take every opportunity that comes your way, even if it feels outside your comfort zone. I started on the tools as an apprentice and worked through various leadership roles in manufacturing before moving into my current role as Head of Operations for the rental division. Every step has taught me something different. Listen to and learn from the people around you. There’s a huge amount of experience in this industry.”

 

Carole I’Anson, Senior Buyer: 10 years at Premier Modular after first joining as an apprentice

You were involved in the King’s College Hospital project, our largest healthcare project to do date. What made it memorable for you?

“As a busy teaching hospital which serves 700,000 people across four London boroughs, our task to create a practical and sustainable building for outpatient services remains one of the largest and most complex schemes I’ve been involved with during my time in the industry. Being heavily responsible for the procurement of the steelworks and materials that helped create 132 modules, weighing up to 11.5 tonnes, is a role I am incredibly proud of.”

How has sustainability evolved in modular construction over the last 10 years?

Sustainability has become a core focus rather than an added benefit. Precision manufacturing using modern technology reduces material waste, while fewer on-site deliveries and shorter build programmes help cut emissions from transport and site activity. Modular buildings now integrate energy-efficient technologies such as solar panels, smart building systems and advanced insulation solutions. Importantly, modular structures are being increasingly recognised for their ability to be relocated, repurposed or reconfigured, extending their lifecycle and reducing environmental impact.”

How would you encourage someone who wants to change their career path and enter the world of modular construction later in life?

“Take the time to familiarise yourself with the company and the product that is a modular building. Do not be frightened to ask questions either as that is how you gain valuable knowledge and further experience. It is also important to engage with all the departments to find out what they do, how they do it and what aligns best with your capabilities and passions as this helps immerse you in the culture of the business, which is something I am truly grateful for here at Premier Modular.”

Keen to join our team at Premier Modular and make an impact? Visit our ‘Careers’ page here.