The firm’s managing director for Yorkshire and the North-east on overcoming challenges, the regeneration he has witnessed in Leeds, recruiting new talent and being a team player – and why he is learning to speak Spanish
Why did you choose construction as a career?
Growing up, construction was always part of my life as members of my family worked in the industry. When it came to choosing a career path at 16, it felt like a very natural thing to do.
I started my career on a YTS scheme before becoming a technician trainee. After completing my training, I chose to specialise in site engineering, eventually progressing into construction management, which has led me to where I am today.
Seeing the growth of Leeds over the years and the positive impact the development, regeneration and the construction industry has had on the city, and the contribution it has made to communities and the opportunities it has created, makes me extremely proud to have played even a small part.
What are you most proud of in your career to date?
Most recently heading up the new Yorkshire and North-east region at McLaren. We have built an impressive professional team, strengthened and built new relationships, sought out the best tender opportunities and secured work within the first year of operation.
Thinking back on my career, I am extremely proud of my time at HBG Construction and the grounding it gave me in the industry.
What has been the biggest challenge of your career to date?
Overcoming challenges is part and parcel of career development. Every project has its challenges or complexities, finding a solution and lessons learnt are the key takeaways. Every challenge teaches you to approach things differently the next time.
It helps to have a great team in place, in Yorkshire and North-east we have extensive experience across both the public and private sectors and having that breadth of knowledge makes us a strong and trusted delivery partner.
If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?
Two things spring to mind here. The first is attracting the next generation and new skills into the industry. Skills shortage is a real issue and one that is going to have a great impact on the industry.
At McLaren, attracting talent into the business is at the heart of our future. Through our Constructing Futures programme over 60 individuals have gained a structured qualification, across a variety of roles, and the programme is key to developing young talent and fostering continuous learning and development.
The second thing I would change is to encourage more diversity at every level. While the industry has improved significantly in this respect over the years, there is still work to do. A more inclusive industry benefits everyone — through different perspectives, stronger teams, and better outcomes.
What is the most helpful advice that you have been given?
“Fail to prepare, then you prepare to fail” – a motto I live by every day in both my professional and personal life.
Name your favourite building in the world?
The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, the cathedral in Barcelona that is still under construction 144 years after work began. It isn’t due to be completed until 2034. It’s a fantastic building to visit, with many architectural facets that I find fascinating.
Which famous building do you most dislike?
I don’t have a particular building I dislike; each one is unique and has its own story to tell. Through McLaren’s retrofit work, it’s great to see older buildings being brought back to life and futureproofed for years to come.
Which famous building do you wish you had worked on?
I know it’s not a building, but I would have loved to work on the Channel Tunnel. During my time at college, we studied the project, tracking its progress. I found the construction process very interesting and it’s a fantastic feat of engineering.
What single piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in your profession?
Be a team player, have a willingness to learn and always go the extra mile. I’d always put myself forward to work on a weekend, to show my enthusiasm and commitment.
Who do you most admire in the construction industry?
The people I have most admired are those I have worked with throughout my career, past and present. Everyone has helped play a significant part in my journey and influenced how I operate as an MD. For me, it’s all about the team.
What is it like being you (and doing your job)?
I’m fortunate enough to work in an exceptional team, and we’ve got some fantastic people on board. I’m learning every day from the people I work with, and the team is full of enthusiasm and drive.
We’ve recently been appointed by J Pullan & Sons to deliver Joseph’s Well Student tower, which was a pivotal milestone for the region. With our broad experience and skilled team are well placed to deliver what is a landmark project in the heart of Leeds city centre.
We are closing in on further opportunities and negotiating with private and key public sector clients for work in the region.
Do you have a life philosophy?
Every day is a school day!
What do you think your best quality is?
Honesty and if I say I’m going to do something – I do it!
What trait do you most dislike in yourself? And in other people?
Respecting time, recognising that everyone’s time is equally valuable.
Name three things that you like
Good wine, good food and good company.
Tell us about a secret skill that we don’t know you have
I’m learning to speak Spanish
What is your most prized possession?
War diaries and campaign medals from WW1 and WWII which document an incredibly challenging chapter in history.
Early bird or night owl?
Early bird – I get up at 5am every morning and walk my dog, giving me a great start to the day
What is your favourite food?
Spanish tapas, here is where the Spanish comes in handy!
What would your superpower be?
Time travel and being able to change the course of history for the better.
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