Contracts Manager Anthony O’Donovan has worked extensively in Europe, most recently on the fit-out for Primark in Strasbourg, a 7,000-square-metre project over four floors that is now in its latter stages.
“I enjoyed my experiences working in Germany, UK, Netherlands and Belgium between 2010 and 2015. In 2017 there were opportunities on projects in Europe so with the support of my family I put myself forward.” Prior to this Primark job, which began in July last year, Anthony also had stints in Switzerland and before that, Germany.
Anthony and the rest of the Sisk team in Strasbourg work on a two-week rotation and, like home, the days start early. “The pace is fast, resources are finite. You work to make sure everyone leaves for the day safe and healthy, and you have a few laughs with some amazing people along the way.”
The buzzy French city, with its European Parliament and footbridge links to neighbouring Germany, is a nice place to work, with only a short walk or cycle commute to site in the mornings. But it’s not all work.
“Some of us took the opportunity to watch the home games of local football club RC Strasbourg,” says Anthony, and with a few Munster folk among the team, they also managed a trip to Paris for the Champions Cup game against Racing 92.
“We also organise evenings out to celebrate a milestone or a special occasion and members of the team arranged for their partners and family to come and visit and they’ve all thoroughly enjoyed their stay.”
Working abroad is an experience with much to recommend it. “The opportunity to work in a different country appealed to me for lots of reasons,” says Anthony. “It presents a new challenge, you get to meet new people, see different cities and have to adapt your lifestyle. You get to know different cultures, share and develop your knowledge and expertise, and you get to build long-lasting career connections.
Pictured: Anthony and his wife Louise in the tourist area known as Petite France, Strasbourg.
