Highlighted in Appointments last month, Lillie, the Western Cape’s new project director for South Africa’s World Cup in 2010, returns to face the spotlight.

How did you get started in construction?

I worked for Redpath Dorman Long as a trainee on the £20m BOS steel plant in Cleveland. I loved the energy of the team and the dynamic on the site.

Your previous employers?

Wimpey, Carillion, Bovis and then consultants EC Harris, White Young Green and Hyder.

The key differences between the UK and South African construction sectors?

The development of programme management is more advanced in the UK.

The greatest influence in your professional life?

A developer in the USA and then in-house with the Marks & Spencer development team in the 80s. Both had an incredible “can-do” attitude.

Worst ever day at work?

The day I watched 9/11 unfold on the boardroom TV. l knew people who worked in the tower.

Favourite project you’ve worked on?

My projects in Florida. I arranged to meet clients on their plots fronting the Gulf of Mexico to discuss their requirements and I would then put together a design and cost proposal and meet again for sundowners to finalise the deal.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?

Listen to the client.

What went wrong with Wembley and right with Arsenal’s Emirates stadium?

Poor procurement decisions by all parties in the case of Wembley and a clear brief in the case of Arsenal.

Any advice for the London Olympics?

Focus on the project and respectfully ignore the politics around the decision-making process.

Favourite building?

The house I built here in South Africa on the Garden Route. We bought the land and designed and supervised the construction via the internet and email. It’s our dream home on the Indian Ocean.

Would you recommend construction to your kids?

Yes because it is so diverse, every day is different and you can work anywhere in the world.

Who’s going to win the 2010 world cup?

South Africa, for producing a magnificent event both in terms of hosting the event and amazing the world with its cultural diversity.

Zidane: hero or villain?

We need to blow off sometimes. The guy was provoked; his action doesn’t detract from the greatness in his core skill.

Source

Construction Manager