‘I can be a pain, but they understand me’
Abbey Adeeyinwo got into contracting because he could see that, with his skill set, he would be able to earn more money, enjoy new challenges, and become known internationally. To date, his contracting career has involved maintenance, support, installation and integration, across 14 countries in sub-Saharan Africa, including Mozambique, Ivory Coast, Congo, Tanzania and Ghana.
By his own admission, Abbey is demanding, and not always the easiest person to deal with… He was on a contract with another agency when FPG approached him, and, frustrated by his relationship with them, decided that he’d switch if another opportunity came up.
In June 2006 it did, and Abbey has been working with FPG ever since: there have been a couple of problems along the way, but they were easily resolved, he says. He appreciates the fact that David and Jidz always take his call, and do their best to sort things out for him: ‘No-one is perfect’ he says, ‘but they’re like family’.
The enduring relationship Abbey enjoys with FPG has helped smooth the path for him in his career. He’s gained maturity and become a better manager because he’s come to understand others’ points of view, which, he says is ‘essential when you’re dealing with people you encounter on projects, who may be fundamentally unlike you, with a different work ethic and motivation’
Abbey says that the closeness of the relationship is why he’ll always stay with First Point: ‘They know me inside out, and are always there for me’.
Interview dated: March 2010
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