Previously based in Ferryhill, Co. Durham, Kier Northern recently relocated its headquarters to a new £2m, 10,000sq ft office at Monkton Business Park South in Hebburn and turned to Gateshead-based Executel for a state-of-the-art voice and data infrastructure to complete the move.
Executel’s solution has since been successfully installed to serve some 80 users and comprises a fully integrated IP telephony platform, data networking, call logging software, wholesale line rentals and a Low Cost Routing (LCR) package.
Meanwhile, Kier’s communications strategy moving forward is to seamlessly link multiple sites and operate as a single virtual organisation for voice. Executel has therefore designed and delivered a future-proof platform that will facilitate the introduction of remote IP handsets and mobility applications.
Of the investment in new technology and the decision to work with Executel, Tony Bhogal, Regional IT Manager for Kier Northern & Kier North West, said: “One of Kier’s primary IT aims is to reduce costs while delivering solutions that are not only reliable, but also allow scope for future expansion with minimum investment. The team at Executel has installed a voice platform that fulfils our requirements. Their expertise and personal approach was key to the project’s success, and I have no doubt that the solution provided by Executel is the best fit for our business.”
Established in the North East some 30 years ago, Kier Northern employs a 240-strong workforce and operates from centres in Newcastle, Leeds and Sheffield.
Stephen McNickle, Account Manager for Executel, added: “Despite the recession and its effect on the construction industry, The Kier Group is standing strong and investing in the region for the long-term. We are therefore delighted to be associated with the company.
“It goes without saying that Kier Northern is a major player in the North East construction industry and this contract win is not only a real coup for us, but also helps to reinforce our reputation as a best-in-class service provider.
“We are a local company with an impressive client portfolio and we pride ourselves on delivering the highest quality communication solutions as well as an unbeatable after sales support network. These factors have helped us to secure many high profile clients across the region and beyond and were fundamental in our contract win with Kier Northern.”