HJ Collection Interview Series with Benn Hayward, Procurement Manager

Benn Hayward, Procurement Manager, HJ Collection

Q: How does HJ Collection's in-house turnkey solution differentiate it from competitors?

A: By overseeing the entire property development lifecycle internally, encompassing site acquisition, construction, completion, and subsequent sale or rental. This approach guarantees consistent quality along with efficient project management. By strategically utilising Permitted Development Rights, HJ Collection transforms underutilised commercial buildings into desirable residential units, thereby contributing to urban regeneration and mitigating housing shortages.

Q: Tell us about your thoughts on the role HJ Collection plays in the housing crisis of the UK.

A: In response to the pressing housing crisis in the United Kingdom, characterised by uncontrollably rising rent rates, HJ Collection’s strategy emerges as a direct and effective solution. The company’s focus on developing properties that strike a balance between affordability and sustainability addresses the root causes of this crisis.

Q: Tell us about how HJ Collection’s sustainable methods of using stripped-out material from acquired sites have a positive impact.

A:  By reusing materials from deconstructed sites, we can reduce the demand for new raw materials. This practice conserves natural resources such as timber, metals, and materials that are often extracted through processes that cause environmental damage.

Q: What professional achievement at HJ Collection/before HJ Collection are you most proud of?

A: Implementing procedures and processes for procurement and purchasing throughout the business will ultimately drive cost savings and boost revenue for the organisation. A great example of a cost-saving order would be the secondary glazing for our site in Lowestoft (Abigail Court), this decision delivered substantial savings for the entire project.

Q: Do you have a favourite project or development that HJ Collection has completed/is currently working on?

A: As a newcomer to the business, I have had the privilege of witnessing the Cobham project from its early stages.

Q: How do you see the future of property development evolving, and how is HJ Collection preparing for it?

A: The future of property development is shaping up to be quite exciting, with a lot of changes coming our way. Technological advancements, sustainability concerns, and shifting consumer preferences are all playing a role in this transformation. As the industry adapts to these changes, we at HJ Collection are smartly positioning ourselves to make the most of this dynamic environment. For instance, we have demonstrated this through the incorporation of eco-friendly initiatives, i.e using water-saving materials, low-energy lighting units. Additionally, when stripping out the commercial units, any materials that are in good condition have been used to revamp our Braintree office.

Q: What’s one fun fact about you that not many people know?

A: When I was a young lad, my parents took me to Highbury to watch an arsenal game. But upon arrival I was surprised to find out, that I would be playing under the stadium in a pre-game tournament with various other individuals and arsenal youth coaches.

Q: What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?

A: I haven’t done it yet, but I’m planning to take on the 24-hour, 3-peak challenge for Great Ormond St charity in June. I’ll be joined by some family and friends.

Q: If you could master any skill instantly, what would it be?

A: The skill I’d love to master instantly would be data management & analytics as procurement continues to undergo digital transformation, the data becomes more readily available. As most of the procurement data that we gather from software and processes is underutilised. 

Q: What’s your go-to karaoke song?

A: Over my shoulder by Mike & The Mechanics

Q: If you could switch jobs with anyone at HJ Collection for a day, who would it be and why?

A: It would have to be Reece Mennie. Spending a day or two in his shoes would provide a profound understanding of his daily life and experiences.