Matthew Morley has recently joined Barhale as a Framework Manager for the Northern Region, bringing with him nearly two decades of experience in civil engineering. His career has spanned a wide range of roles – from Site Supervisor to Construction Director — primarily in the civils sector.

Matt’s journey into civil engineering began from the ground up. Starting out as a labourer, with little formal qualifications, he paid for his own training, studied in his own time and progressed through sheer determination. “I knew if I wanted to get anywhere, I’d have to do it myself. No one was going to hand it to me,” he muses.

Now holding qualifications including NVQ Level 7 in Construction Management and NEBOSH, his story is a testament of resilience and self-belief. Prior to working for Barhale, much of Matt’s experience was spent working with Thames and Anglian Water, where he became familiar with Barhale through collaborative projects.

Why Barhale?

Matt’s decision to join Barhale stemmed from a long-standing working relationship. Having collaborated closely on the @one Alliance with Anglian Water, he developed a strong appreciation for Barhale’s culture and the professionalism of its people. “I always said if I was going to work for someone else again, it would be Barhale,” Matt recalls. “I didn’t even look anywhere else. It just felt like the right fit.”

His role and day-to-day

As Framework Manager, Matt oversees all live projects within the Severn Trent framework and maintains key client relationships. His responsibilities include leading a team of managers, supporting bids, monitoring KPIs and ensuring everything runs smoothly across the region. “The main goal right now is supporting Severn Trent in hitting their year-end targets—and we’re on track to do that. It’s been full-on but rewarding.”

A clear vision for the future

Matt is driven by a clear long-term objective: to position Barhale as Severn Trent’s contractor of choice. “The aim is simple—we want to be the first people Severn Trent call when they need something done. No questions, no competition. Just trust built on delivery.”

For Matt, this ambition is grounded in consistent professionalism, quality work and profitable, sustainable growth.

Achievements so far

Since joining the Northern Region, Matt has seen progress on several fronts. “The region is meeting targets; new work is being secured and relationships with Severn Trent are stronger than ever. It’s been great to hear from Severn Trent that they appreciate the team’s openness and delivery. That kind of feedback means a lot.”  Matt clearly takes pride in building that trust while empowering his team internally.

Matt’s line manager, James Ingamells (Regional Director, Northern Region) remarks on how Matt is making a meaningful contribution to the team: “Having known Matt for many years, but not having worked with him previously, it is great to be able to welcome Matt to Barhale. Matt’s experience and behaviours were an obvious fit for Barhale and indeed, he has already had a positive impact within the region, managing client relationships – proactively overseeing our pipeline of work with Severn Trent and ensuring safe and efficient delivery on site.”

Leadership style and team development

Matt’s leadership is rooted in trust and empowerment. He believes in giving people the tools and confidence to make decisions—especially on site. “I want our teams to act like professionals, not just follow orders. That means making decisions and owning them, with the right support behind them.”

Life outside of work and last thoughts

Outside of work, Matt enjoys spending time with his wife and six-year-old son. He also takes on DIY projects, often tackling structural or electrical tasks to improve his home.

For Matt, Barhale offers the kind of environment where people are trusted and supported. It’s a place where hard work is recognised and open communication is the norm. “It’s an honest company. People speak their mind and that suits me. It’s the kind of place where you can grow and thrive.”