The BCO president on his passion for recycling buildings, the importance of inspiring the next generation and what happened to his most-prized possession while he was on holiday
Why did you choose construction as a career?
I have always loved going round buildings and appreciating the thought process that must have been behind their design and assembly, so a career that enabled me to be paid to do so held a significant appeal.
After leaving school, I worked in various property-related jobs and quickly realised that a relevant degree and professional qualification would be hugely valuable in allowing me to progress within the industry. I then joined Bruntwood as a relatively fresh-faced graduate.
After 26 years, and having garnered a broad range of experience through constant learning, I opted to form my own consultancy business, called HERE, focused on the reinvention of existing assets or estates. This allows me to focus on my passion for reimagining and recycling what already exists.
What are you most proud of in your career to date?
On a human level, it has been having the opportunity to provide talented people with the opportunity to flourish by being trusted, so they can test themselves and fulfill their potential. On a professional level, it is being responsible for the successful reinvention and recycling of numerous buildings that others thought were beyond their economic life.
What has been the biggest challenge of your career to date?
The transformation of Alderley Park in Cheshire from a single-occupier specialist life science enclave to an open, inviting home to over 200 businesses. This was a complex process in itself, but other challenges involved taking on responsibility for woodland management and farming, which is not typical in our projects. While this tested the team, it meant that every day was a school day.
If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?
Greater diversity and inclusivity. We are going in the right direction, but there is still a long way to go. Supporting the next generation of talent will be critical to making that change.
Mentoring and networking programmes like BCO NextGen are a key way of encouraging younger members of the industry.
What is the most helpful advice that you have been given?
You have two ears and one mouth – use them in that ratio. You rarely learn by talking at someone and you fail to gather all the facts required to make reasoned decisions if you fail to listen to other people’s opinions.
Name your favourite building in the world?
It is more of a structure than a building, but the Ponte Vecchio in Florence. It has a fascinating history dating back to the 1300s with beautiful stonework that is still intact. Its scenic surroundings and views of the Arno river also make it a great setting.
Which famous building do you most dislike?
Manchester Airport. As a proud Mancunian, I would hope that visitors to the city would get a far more positive first impression than a series of poorly configured and disjointed buildings that are constantly being adapted.
Which famous building do you wish you had worked on?
The Empire State Building. To be involved in delivering the tallest of the first wave of skyscrapers and the first building over 100 storeys would have been hugely challenging and rewarding. To do so at such a rapid pace – it was completed in one year and 45 days – is mind-boggling. A truly iconic building that remains relevant nearly 100 years on.
What single piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in your profession?
Ask questions and listen to the answers. The vast majority of people gladly answer questions and enjoy imparting knowledge and experience. I would add to that, soak up different perspectives where you can. At the last BCO conference, I listened to a very interesting talk from a leading neuroscientist that put how we design workspace in a completely different light.
Who do you most admire in the construction industry?
Hanif Kara of AKTII. A very intelligent, talented, successful and humble person. He does so much that I suspect he has more hours in the day than the rest of us – or more accurately, he’s just incredibly effective.
What is it like being you (and doing your job)?
I consider myself to be very fortunate that the effort I put into being the best I can be as a colleague, employee, leader, father and partner has resulted in a fulfilling and rewarding life. In my new role as a founder at HERE and as BCO president, I am excited to see what the next chapter holds.
Do you have a life philosophy?
YOLO: you only live once, so make the most of it.
What do you think your best quality is?
The ability to identify solutions. Most people are very adept at pointing out flaws and problems, far fewer are able or prepared to take action to solve them.
What trait do you most dislike in yourself? And in other people?
I’m a perfectionist, so struggle coping when I’m wrong. I also struggle to deal with the same trait when others exhibit it.
Name three things that you like.
Spending time with friends and family, any sport (both playing and watching) and travel.
Tell us about a secret skill that we don’t know you have.
I could lie and say something highbrow and exotic, but that would be wrong, so I won’t.
What is your most prized possession?
It was my car, but someone permanently borrowed that without my permission while I was on holiday.
Early bird or night owl?
That depends on which day of the week. Happy to be either, but struggle to do both on the same day.
What is your favourite food?
Italian. I love the country and the food is a key part of that passion.
What would your superpower be?
The ability to ensure that karma occurs. It crushes me when good people suffer, equally watching some people prosper at others expense is hugely dispiriting.
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