My way

How did you get into construction?

I saw the enthusiasm in my father when he returned home from work as chief QS at Norwest Holst.

The biggest challenge of your new role?

Ensuring the right balance of resource can be made available to deliver the projects demanded by the clients.

The most important factor in providing strategic leadership?

Being sure about the strategy and vision and clearly communicating it to all staff, prospective staff, supply chain and all other stakeholders.

Greatest influence in your professional life?

Seeing the impact an enthused attitude can have on a subdued team. Delivery becomes easier when people believe in themselves and the power and energy of a team approach.

Biggest professional achievement?

Managing a staff team through the years of recession in construction and rebuilding positive teams when recession ended.

Worst day at work?

About 16 years ago I was based in London and one of the men on site had a very bad fall from height. After some months in a coma he died from his injuries. The feelings and impact stay with me to this day.

Best advice you’ve received?

Have fun and enjoy your job as you may be at work 40-50% of your waking hours.

Favourite building?

I went to the Taj Mahal two years ago and you need to see the detail to fully appreciate it.

How do you unwind?

Time with my family, I have undertaken two treks for charity to India and Peru, I play golf, own a hot air balloon and socialise with friends.

Would you recommend construction to friends and families?

Yes, I think the people in the industry make it a great career to be in.

North/south divide: fact or fiction?

Fiction. No divide but sometimes a different approach to life.