The family-owned business has gone from strength to strength and now employs nearly 300 employees across development, construction, operations and hospitality.

DCOH’s Chief People Officer Emily Nyamdorj says the company has gone one step further to boost future growth by introducing a leadership program.

“DCOH is privileged to have many talented people across our diverse organisation and we’re firm believers that successful businesses are built by growing great talents within,” she says.

While it’s the first time DCOH has collaborated with internationally renowned corporate consulting firm Spencer Stuart, plans are already afoot to continue the leadership development initiative.

“Developing our own people is one of the best investments we can make in the future of the business,” says Ms Nyamdorj.

“As DCOH expands and takes on larger and more complex projects, we need to make sure our leadership capability grows with it. The program is designed to build critical capabilities for performance through comprehensive individual assessments, workshops, coaching and tailored development plans.

“We’re excited to equip our people with the confidence and tools they need to thrive and build their careers with us.”

DCOH’s Development Manager Jay Stone says inspiration came through learning from senior business leaders during the course.

“Gaining an insight into their mindset, leadership style, and business acumen was invaluable.”

The results of the new leadership development program are already rippling through the business.

Northcrest Sales Manager and Head of Solis Real Estate Kristy Millar says the program has given her greater confidence in her leadership abilities and a fresh perspective on supporting her team.

“Connecting with colleagues from across the business, sharing ideas and learning from their experiences has been incredibly rewarding.”

The sentiment was echoed by Contract Administrator Oskar Meehan-Lee, who says understanding himself better had helped him understand other people better, which then changed the way he communicated and led.

Ms Nyamdorj says people have always been DCOH’s greatest asset.

“Having an engaged team as we expand, and continue to deliver major projects and award-winning service, is a major priority now and into the future.”

From internal leadership to community-based initiatives, the company is working to shore up the success of the future workforce.

Advocating for tertiary-level opportunities to help upskill professionals and trades has long been a pet project for DCOH Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Shane Dignan.

He says that DCOH, together with the Master Builders NT, are committed to creating stronger tertiary pathways into the industry.

“We’ve always been keen to build the Territory from here out,” Mr Dignan says. “Licensing courses are now available for commercial builders in Darwin, and we’re thrilled to see Charles Darwin University is next year introducing a Master of Construction Management course.

“Giving emerging professionals the opportunity to study locally, instead of forcing them to head south to complete their qualifications, reduces the risk of losing them to other businesses when they’re away studying.

“It also prepares professionals for the NT’s unique working environment.”

In addition to a strong presence at trade expos, such as the Stars Foundation Darwin Futures Forum for Year 12s, the BlakJobs expo and the Darwin Careers Expo, DCOH provides valuable on-the-job learning opportunities to inspire prospective employees.

Earlier this year, five work experience students from Driver Secondary School spent a week gaining hands-on experience at a bustling DCOH construction site.

Work experience coordinator Jo McDaid says Driver Secondary School was grateful for DCOH’s willingness to involve students.

“We know it’s not always easy having young students on a busy jobsite, and we appreciate DCOH opening the door to them. These industry snapshots are pivotal in a young person’s career planning. It’s clear DCOH has a strong future focus and understands the importance of inspiring the next generation.”

As a trusted partner in delivering critical civic and defence infrastructure, employment pathways were also front of mind when DCOH Construction Manager Jonathan Giles toured Year 12 students through the Darwin Civic Centre in August.

He shared his journey into the industry with the Year 12s, who were accompanied by staff from Haileybury Rendall School, Driver Secondary School and the Clontarf Foundation.

As well as an overview of the $150 million project, the students were given an insight into the many professionals, trades, labourers, services and subcontractors involved in the planning and construction stages, employment pathways and the company’s commitment to strengthening the Indigenous workforce.

Local Industry Capability Manager Melissa Collins says DCOH is always looking for opportunities to engage with organisations and schools.

“Letting the younger generation see different facets of the construction sector up close, and introducing them to people within the industry, is an excellent start. Hopefully tours like these spark an interest that brings fresh faces, both men and women, into the industry.”

As one of the Northern Territory’s most prominent businesses, DCOH also has a strong training focus in hospitality and operations, with Thyme Hospitality overseeing Novotel CBD Darwin, Courtyard by Marriott and the Frontier Hotel.

Their work with Saltbush Social Enterprise and the Industry Skills Advisory Council NT has formed purposeful partnerships, supporting inclusive workplace development through tours, mentoring and structured workplace exposure.

“It’s about giving people a realistic look at hospitality before they commit to it, whether they’re a student or a jobseeker changing direction,” says Thyme Hospitality’s Jan Lutter. “We provide career choices with respect to their life goals and aspirations.” TQ

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