Guiding Jaytex’s projects: Col Habgood appointed Construction Manager

Hailing from the UK before moving to Australia in 2008, Col Habgood brought a wealth of construction experience to Jaytex when a serendipitous taxi ride at the airport turned into a career opportunity.

Now overseeing operations across the Northern Territory as he steps into the role of Construction Manager, Col will manage the majority of the territory's projects, ensuring everything from daily operations to overall budget adherence aligns with Jaytex’s core values and high standards.

Col is used to having a hands-on approach matched with precision, having earned his trade as a Lead roof plumber, completing heritage work on roofs in London. His journey in construction accelerated after earning his Diploma in Building Construction in Melbourne, where he swiftly climbed the ranks at Tier 1 construction companies like LendLease and Multiplex.

His move to Darwin came after selling everything in Melbourne to travel Australia post-Covid lockdown, an adventure that led him to his role at Jaytex.

At Jaytex, Col has been instrumental in several unique projects, including the Berrimah Farm Science Precinct Redevelopment and the $24M SWELL aquatic centre, which Col said he enjoyed due to client-specific elements like a challenging 'Wet Ninja' area. His favourite project to date though remains the iconic Collins Arch in Melbourne - a significant $1 billion mixed-use precinct development, marked by an elevated sky bridge connecting the two towers.

“I’m always proud of each project we deliver,” Col said.

“The reward is getting a project finished on time and in budget, all while exceeding expectations.”

A construction manager by day and a soccer enthusiast by evening, Col enjoys connecting with the team and building rapport on-site. Known for his outgoing nature, excellent communication skills, and professional approach, he values efficient work, advocating for a balanced life that allows him to spend quality time with his two daughters.

“If I was to tell my younger self something, I strongly recommend that I reassess those 14–15-hour days I was working,” Col said.

“When you apply yourself and manage your time well, it’s more productive doing an 8-hour day and finding some sort of balance in there rather than pushing to the point of exhaustion.”

With eyes set on the bigger picture as Construction Manager, Col is excited about guiding Jaytex’s projects with a keen eye for innovation and quality, ensuring that each project not only meets but exceeds expectations. His mantra for success: "Work smarter, not harder," embodies his approach to both his professional and personal life, making him a pivotal part of the Jaytex team.