Experienced HSEQ professional Andrew Hill has successfully completed the CQI and IRCA Professional Certificate in Quality Management – a milestone that has expanded his expertise, validated his competencies and supported his transition into a new leadership role at Maple Facades.
We caught up with Andrew to hear about his motivation for studying rove’s CQI and IRCA Professional Certificate in Quality Management, the impact of recent regulatory changes in the construction sector and how his studies are shaping his approach to quality in his new role.
An experienced operations and HSEQ professional, Andrew has over 20 years of experience in marine, construction, manufacturing and logistics. Throughout his career, he has focused on improving business operations, simplifying processes and creating safer, smarter ways of working.
NEW ROLE – SHARPER FOCUS ON QUALITY
In 2024, Andrew began a new role as HSEQ Manager at Maple Facades, a business working at the heart of the construction industry. The role brought an increased focus on quality – and coincided with major regulatory shifts under the Building Safety Act 2022. As a result, Andrew was keen to deepen his technical knowledge and validate his expertise.
“I wanted to test myself, challenge my knowledge and evidence my competencies – hence I was attracted to the Professional level courses which focus on leadership,” said Andrew.
UPSKILLING IN RESPONSE TO INDUSTRY CHANGE
In addition, Andrew recognised that to effectively lead quality initiatives in a post-Grenfell regulatory landscape, he needed to demonstrate up-to-date knowledge, test his expertise and formally evidence his competencies through CPD.
“The Grenfell Tower tragedy was a daunting incident which required drastic changes in the construction industry. The Building Safety Act created a new level of accountability and I wanted to be ready for that,” shared Andrew.
Designed for experienced practitioners who are looking to excel at a strategic level, the Professional Certificate in Quality Management helped him do exactly that.
FLEXIBLE LEARNING THAT FITS YOUR SCHEDULE
As a self-motivated professional already holding a Level 7 Diploma in Business Management, Andrew valued rove’s distance learning model. It offered him the flexibility to balance study around a demanding job and home life and he completed the Professional Certificate in Quality Management in just 14 months.
A HOLISTIC VIEW OF WIDER BUSINESS NEEDS
The Certificate, which involves six courses, enabled Andrew to focus on a leadership approach to topics including performance measurement, quality strategy, process excellence, supply chains, change and improvement and risk management.
Andrew particularly enjoyed studying the Leading Enterprise Risk Management and Leading Strategic Change and Improvement courses, where he gained knowledge of new tools and methods which he’s applying in his role.
He also thought the Certificate provided a more holistic view of his company’s operations.
“The course gave me a better understanding of the wider business needs,” explained Andrew. “It’s a director level course, preparing you to navigate strategic, high-level projects,” he continued.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR ANDREW?
Andrew is enjoying his leadership role in a growing company and is now working towards CQI Chartership. He sees the Professional Certificate in Quality Management as a vital step in aligning his experience with recognised standards – and helping him lead with credibility and clarity in a high-responsibility industry.
“This course is ideal for professionals looking to take on senior quality roles,” he shared. “If you’re looking to lead director-level projects and influence organisational change, this is the course for you.”
ADVICE FOR OTHERS
Andrew’s advice for others who are considering studying the Professional Certificate in Quality Management.
“You’ve got to plan well and stay disciplined – I focused intently on one course before taking a short break before moving to the next.
“Make time for it, apply what you learn and keep the momentum going”, recommends Andrew.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CQI AND IRCA QUALITY MANAGEMENT COURSES
For over 14 years rove has supported quality management professionals develop and progress in their careers. Since 2016, its experienced, knowledgeable and friendly team has supported over 500 learners, from over 345 companies – who have completed more than 1,500 quality management courses. It is also very proud of its 100% pass rate. You can find out about the CQI and IRCA Foundation, Practitioner and Professional quality management courses here.