12 | Synergy keeps the wheels turning Connor Jones Group has taken on a diverse pipeline of projects ranging from residential builds to government retrofit programmes Connor Jones Group T T Kelly Deeks “It’s a market that has hardly been affected by the recent recession, and there’s still so much to be done there.” REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Dunedin-based Connor Jones Group is continuing to defy market pressures, expanding its footprint across the South Island and cementing its place as one of the fastest-growing construction companies in the region. Founded in 2018 by Tom Connor and Chris Jones, the company has steadily built a reputation for delivering seamless construction and engineering services. That dual capability has helped it win a wide range of projects across residential, commercial, and government sectors. Recognition of the group’s rapid growth came in 2024 when it earned a place on the prestigious Deloitte Fast 50, ranking among New Zealand’s fastest-growing businesses. The achievement followed two consecutive years as the fastest-growing construction company in the lower South Island. Managing director Tom says the accolade reflected both the risks the business had taken and the hard work required to maintain momentum in a turbulent market. “The past two years have been hugely challenging for the construction sector.” he says. “Margins are tight, competition is fierce, and you’ve got to work twice as hard just to get a contract signed. It’s felt at times like we’re sitting in a Ferrari in idle – we know the power is there, we just need the right road to drive on.” What began as a fabrication business run by Tom quickly evolved into a fully fledged construction company when builder Chris joined three months after start-up. From those early days in Dunedin, the business has grown to 33 employees and has established operations in Invercargill, and most recently, Queenstown. Connor Jones Group’s fabrication workshop remains an integral part of the business, supplying not only its own projects, but also taking on external work. Projects have included upgrades and maintenance for Dunedin’s breweries, alongside structural steel packages for large commercial builds. On the construction side, Connor Jones Group has taken on a diverse pipeline of projects ranging from residential builds to government retrofit programmes. Its Invercargill team is currently completing a significant project for James Hargest College, while the Queenstown expansion is already securing forward work in a market the directors see as comparatively recession-proof. “We see Queenstown as a strong long-term play,” Tom says. “It’s a market that has hardly been affected by the recent recession, and there’s still so much to be done there.” To support this geographic growth, Connor Jones Group has built a strong management structure, including an operations manager, regional project managers and quantity surveyors, and a fabrication and engineering manager. This depth of leadership ensures projects run smoothly, while allowing the founders to continue steering the company’s strategy. Tom says the group’s strength lies in the synergy between its two arms of the business. “In every construction project there’s steel, timber, or concrete at the heart of the structure. Having both building and fabrication capability under one roof makes life easier for clients. “They get confidence that those critical elements are in expert hands, and we’ve got the skills and the systems to make sure it all comes together seamlessly.” Looking ahead, Connor Jones Group’s focus is on consolidation rather than unchecked growth. With tentative steps already being made into Christchurch, the company aims to establish high-performing teams in each region, steady its pipeline, and embed consistent processes across the business. trade.admin@megadunedin.co.nz Phone 03 455 3341 www.mitre10.co.nz/trade 350 Andersons Bay Rd, DUNEDIN Proud to support Connor Jones Group OPEN 7 DAYS FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING SUPPLIES We are proud to support Connor Jones Group Mild Steel • Stainless Steel • Aluminium www.precisionprofile.co.nz sales@precisionprofile.co.nz 03 477 7277 12 Birch St. Dunedin | | OTAGO’S PLATE CUTTING SPECIALIST Now Laser Cutting
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