The firm’s director of applied digital services (ADS) on the importance of embracing new tools and technology, the skills his grandfather taught him and the best days on which to own a boat
Why did you choose construction as a career?
It is not a career I expected myself to be in – I fell into construction by chance. I started as an operative in a network control centre, taking calls and managing incident support units (ISUs) for a highways authority handling reports from across the South-west.
My background was in IT, so along with my blue-collar site knowledge, construction felt like a natural step. I then progressed to managing systems and inspectors, along with surveying the road network for defects and planning repairs.
Despite not initially choosing construction, I have not looked back since.
What are you most proud of in your career to date?
Building a team and business from scratch. QuikSTATS is a service that helps organisations to prevent underground utility strikes by compiling comprehensive reports about what is beneath the surface, prioritising safety, time and cost efficiencies before breaking ground.
While working on contracts across the South-west, I saw how incomplete or slowly processed data could hold our projects back, and with the expertise of our in-house geographical information systems (GIS) team, we got to work building a solution. Kier understood and believed in the value this product could have, and it has now been deployed on projects across the UK.
I am proud of how we have grown our client base and become a successful, growing business that continually innovates and collaborates to provide a valuable service across a wide range of sectors.
What has been the biggest challenge of your career to date?
Implementing digital transformations across different businesses, industries and practices. The bigger the business, the more difficult it is to bring about impactful change. The hard work does pay off though if you are resilient and ensure alignment with both corporate objectives and client expectations.
If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?
I would increase the industry’s adoption of big data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI). It is understandable and convenient to continue with tried-and-true methods, but to propel our industry forward we must embrace new tools in the name of efficiency. This would primarily be to enhance decision-making and operational management, but safety is also paramount!
Everyone arriving home safe at the end of the working day is always our first and most important priority – and quality data is key to minimising the risk of harm to operational teams, and the communities they work in.
What is the most helpful advice that you have been given?
“Embrace innovation and lead with integrity.” It is important to lead with integrity in any setting, however, when it comes to innovation, constructive dialogue and strong partnerships are fundamental to embedding anything “new” that helps to propel the industry forward.
This has guided me in making strategic decisions, and my approach to trialling new methods – where everyone has a place at the table and can learn from each other’s experiences and build solutions that have a wide-reaching impact.
Name your favourite building in the world?
The Gherkin in London, for its innovative use of energy-efficient technologies and striking architectural design.
Which famous building do you most dislike?
The Aon Center in Chicago, primarily for its initial exterior issues and the massive re-cladding effort it required, showing the pitfalls of overlooking long-term sustainability in materials.
Which famous building do you wish you had worked on?
The Shard in London, to be part of a project that incorporates multiple sustainable technologies and has reshaped the London skyline.
What single piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in your profession?
Focus on mastering digital tools and technologies from the get-go. They are crucial in driving efficiency and innovation in today’s construction landscape and show the trajectory of the industry too.
Who do you most admire in the construction industry?
Those who lead by integrating sustainable practices into every project, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in our field – especially when sustainability and technological innovation come together.
Tackling the issues of sustainability, efficiency and safety all at once is hard but rewarding work – and it’s great to see the advancements made to push UK infrastructure forward.
What is it like being you (and doing your job)?
Every day is different – and my role requires me to have a clear strategic vision, and technical expertise to ensure our services meet expectations and have a positive impact on our clients and the wider industry. It can be challenging but highly rewarding.
Do you have a life philosophy?
“Lead with purpose, impact with action.” This is reflected both in and outside of work. I keep track of what I want to achieve – whether it’s travelling, home renovations or professional objectives – and make a clear plan and make steps towards it.
This can require discipline and being mindful of progress and direction – in a team setting too. By having clear objectives and purpose, teams are better aligned with shared goals. Communication is key, and the results often surpass expectations.
What do you think your best quality is?
I’m a very resolute person. Once I set a goal or plan, I am determined to make it happen and make sure it aligns with both immediate and long-term business goals.
What trait do you most dislike in yourself? And in other people?
I least admire complacency. It hinders progress and innovation.
Name three things that you like
In my work life, it would have to be data-driven decisions and real-world applications of digital ideas. In my personal life, I would have to say boats! I have owned three. They say there are two days you enjoy owning a boat – the day you buy it and the day you sell it. With me, that could not be more true!
Tell us about a secret skill that we don’t know you have
I am very good with mechanics and DIY. There isn’t much I have not tried my hand at! My grandad taught me a lot about DIY, from retiling roofs to rewiring electrics.
What is your most prized possession?
While I would not call them “possessions”, my family are the most treasured people in my life. I value them above anything I have or will ever own.
Early bird or night owl?
Early bird. I am always ready to tackle challenges at the start of the day.
What is your favourite food?
Very spicy Thai cuisine, I enjoy its complexity and bold flavours.
What would your superpower be?
Geekily, the power of optimisation! The ability to increase the efficiency of any process. We have all faced situations where we have had an idea to make something work better. Imagine pulling that off in real-time!
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