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Who are the people who most influenced your career direction?
I was always interested in technical subjects in school and was able to get some work experience prior in an engineering design office prior to leaving school. This experience gave me a great insight into design and construction and encouraged me to pursue a career in Structural Engineering.
Describe a typical day?
I chair and participated in a variety of design and construction team meetings for building projects. Some will be with clients and some will be with designers and subcontractor/ suppliers engaged by ABM. The role will require daily co-ordination of activities of construction trades, eg. Structural works, plumbing, electrical and finishing works. I also devise and monitor construction project management plans in addition to reviewing cost plans and sign off the selection and procurement of materials and works packages. Typical day to day work will also involve supporting the Estimating (work winning) Department and this involves preparing work schedules and project execution plans as part of ABM tenders.
What are the main tasks and responsibilities?
I am responsible for project managing the design and construction teams to ensure a building project is compliant with Building Regulations, meets Client specifications and is delivered to the agreed time schedule and budget.
What are the main challenges?
Managing the never-ending flow of information that is constantly being updated about project specifications or design features is challenging. In particular recognizing the change or update in design intent or construction activity that can cause other knock on effects! Information overload can be daunting and it is difficult to keep on top of, but a necessary part of the job.
What do you like most?
Seeing construction projects progress, particularly where project teams need to work together and overcome challenges. Getting the job completed to everyone’s satisfaction and on budget is very rewarding.
What is your education to date?
- BEng in Structural Engineering
- Masters degree in Business Administration
- Chartered Engineer
What aspects of your education have proven most important for your job?
My Engineering Degree and Masters in Business Administration.
Does your job allow you to have a lifestyle you are happy with?
Monday to Friday can involve long working hours but most weekends are free to spend time with my family.
What kinds of work experience would provide a good background for this position?
Experience in a Design office or a Building Contractor’s office. Ideally experience where you would be exposed to some exercises related to the studying of construction drawings, bills of quantities or construction programmes.
What is your current job title?
Project Manager-Construction
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