Duncan Mann - Awapuni Asphalt Plant Manager

"Higgins knows how to spot a good employee. If they haven't got green blood, they're out."

Just over four years ago when Duncan Mann broke his leg his working career took a turn for the better. Initially joining Higgins as a concrete truck driver, he soon moved on to become Awapuni's Asphalt Plant Manager. His role now involves processing asphalt orders, organising their mixing, before dispatching for on-site application.

Duncan, like many others before him, will most likely retire at Higgins. "We've got a good team here, actually as far as I'm aware all Higgins' teams are top quality." Duncan enjoys the level of trust Higgins puts in his ability to perform, the free rein to think outside the square when problem-solving, and not being questioned at every turn. Basically, he feels valued by his employer.

With quality, environment, and safety Duncan says Higgins ticks all those boxes ... twice. "The quality of Higgins' asphalt is so good that we even supply our competitors not just in the Manawatu, but also throughout Whanganui." As for considering the environment Duncan explains that when you see the emissions coming from their plant it is 100% clean. "You could effectively get up there and take a mouthful and all you'd get is water vapour." Now that's environmentally responsible and looking after the safety of the public.