A successful recruitment process. These words could easily characterise the meeting between representatives of Keski-Suomen Betonirakenne Oy and Sami Laurila five years ago at Lappeenranta’s LAB University of Applied Sciences, where a traditional university recruitment event took place.

Sami Laurila was about to graduate as a civil engineer when Petteri Mäkelä and his colleagues convinced the young construction hopeful of the career possibilities at KSBR.

“The company’s positive vibe gave me a feeling of confidence. That’s why I came to KSBR – and why I’ve stayed,” says Laurila.

Until 2020, Sami Laurila worked as a supervisor trainee, after which his title changed to Site Manager. By 2021, Laurila was already working as a Site Engineer at the Kemi biorefinery, and six months ago he was promoted to Responsible Site Manager.

“At KSBR, you can progress according to your abilities and your own goals. Here, responsibility will be given to you if you want to take it. Everyone is given the chance to develop. In my opinion KSBR is a good place to be and to develop yourself, because there’s always support around you. I’ve never had to go it alone.”

Praise for a flat hierarchy

Another particularly important issue for Laurila is a positive work atmosphere.

“I’ve worked in-house on various sites with different people here. We’ve all gotten along – even challenging situations have been defused with humour. I’ve found the work atmosphere very good.”

Many factors contribute to this. Laurila cites the flat hierarchy – which allows for open, natural communication between everyone – as one of the merits of KSBR.

“There’s no need to be nervous about giving feedback to management – it’s well received and they listen to their employees.”

Laurila himself has been praised by both his employer and clients for his determination to see things through to the end rather than leaving them half-finished.

Personnel recruitment underway

KSBR is currently recruiting new personnel, and Sami Laurila warmly recommends his employer to future colleagues.

“We pay a lot of attention to workplace well-being. Occupational safety is considered important and situations are closely monitored with prevention in mind,” he says.

As for workplace perks, Laurila says he’s considered getting the bicycle benefit.

“I’ve been considering using it. It’s a really good benefit to help you get a relatively expensive bike at a reasonable price.”

Workplace well-being is also linked to professional pride, which is strong among KSBR staff.

“We always strive to achieve a quality end result for the client through a joint effort. We do our work well and with care, which also has an impact on workplace satisfaction.”

Although the construction industry sometimes requires long hours, Sami Laurila feels he can balance work and leisure.

“I go to the gym a lot, and I also cycle. And when I need time off, my employer has always been flexible and agreeable,” says Laurila.