Like many businesses, the basic principles of what makes Jackson tick were formed a long time ago. A real culture takes years to develop and in our case that process started back in the early 1950's when Frank Jackson formed the original company. A fair and honest, no-nonsense approach was always a bedrock for working with Frank. But by the late 1990's change was in the wind; being a good company was no longer what our clients wanted.

So in response, by the turn of the century these grounding principles had been replaced by nine 'Values and Behaviours' which were shamelessly publicised as representing what Jackson Civil Engineering was all about. With carefully chosen words we managed to cover every possible eventuality and wrapped those promises in a blanket of commitment to always deliver beyond expectations. We were brilliant, but we were not alone. The penny then dropped and "Good Works" was born.

At Jackson, we know that doing a good job works for everyone. When everyone does a good job we all benefit - from clients and the local community to our loyal employees. And it makes sound business sense too. This simple, positive attitude builds genuine relationships with like-minded clients and partners.

So here's to our competitors and their ridiculous performance superlatives. Please drop me a line if you can work out what any of them actually mean!

Richard Neall, Chief Executive