5 minutes with … Dean Mitchell at 4B Projects

Why did you choose construction as a career?

I was drawn to construction for the diversity it offers. With a lifelong interest in sport, the opportunity to work on stadium projects used by tens of thousands of spectators and with events watched by millions around the world was what first pulled me in, particularly the chance to contribute to the London 2012 Olympics. Since then, I have expanded my experience into sectors including commercial offices, retail, hospitality, cultural and many more.

What are you most proud of in your career to date?

Starting 4B Projects in October 2021 alongside my three brothers, Gary, Luke and James, who are all quantity surveyors. (Yes, 4B stands for four brothers). In  a short space of time we have delivered high-profile projects in the UK and internationally, including schemes in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Oman. We have also worked with leading architectural practices such as PLP, Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), Mesura, Cox, DROO and Mecanoo to name a few.  

What has been the biggest challenge of your career to date?

It would either be, working on high profile schemes of national importance in Saudi Arabia and being answerable to the Crown Prince and other members of the royal family; or working on the Tottenham Hotspur stadium (which is incredible by the way) while being a passionate Arsenal supporter, which was an emotional challenge.

If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?

The efficiency of UK planning authorities in processing approvals. I would also love to see the use of sustainable materials used in everyday projects, in particular mass timber, but that requires real commitment from policymakers to make it happen. 

I would like to see greater collaboration within the construction industry in order to better protect contractors from going into administration – we have to move away from the “us” and “them” scenario and the race to the bottom for contract awards. 

What is the most helpful advice that you have been given?

Not to specialise too early. Gaining experience across a range of sectors gives you a more rounded perspective and accelerates learning.

Name your favourite building in the world?

Two come to mind. The Natural History Museum and I also love the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel at King’s Cross.

Which famous building do you most dislike?

The old City Hall building in Southwark. Impressive from the outside, but internally I found the layout of the building very peculiar.

Which famous building do you wish you had worked on?

Emirates Stadium as I am an Arsenal supporter, or St Paul’s Cathedral as it is the most iconic building in London.

What single piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in your profession?

Never be afraid to ask questions, no matter how silly they might sound. The world is continually changing and the construction industry has to adapt, which means there is always an element of continuous professional development required. That constant evolution is what makes our industry so interesting.

Who do you most admire in the construction industry?

I have an enormous respect for family-owned businesses who have been successful in the London and UK markets, such as Byrne Group, the Murphys, the O’Rourkes and the Careys. Careys was started in 1969 by three brothers in a van, so not too dis-similar to 4B which started with four brothers in our small office in Old Street.

What is it like being you (and doing your job)? 

First and foremost, my role is delivering projects. We pride ourselves on being a partner-led service provider, meaning that we have a partner on every scheme. Alongside this, I lead all business development operations, from meeting and pitching to clients, to bid writing and tracking pipeline opportunities.

Do you have a life philosophy?

“Hard work beats natural talent, when natural talent doesn’t work hard.”

What do you think your best quality is?

Resilience. Running a young business in one of the world’s oldest property markets inevitably comes with setbacks, but the key is to stay focused on the goal, learn from each experience and refine the plan for the next opportunity. I also pride myself on acting with integrity and doing the right thing, even when others may feel differently.

What trait do you most dislike in yourself? And in other people?

In myself, overthinking. However, the beauty about working in a family business is that we are all very open and have very honest conversations with one another. Providing forums for continuous communication is the key for younger team members to thrive.

In others, my pet hate is when people do not ask questions if they do not understand a topic or deliverable.

Name three things that you like

Going to the gym, coaching rugby union, and spending time with family, ideally over a pint of Guinness.

Tell us about a secret skill that we don’t know you have

I coach the U12s at Finchley Rugby Club and also work with the Irish Rugby Football Union to identify young Irish-qualified talent in the UK.

What is your most prized possession?

Probably my signed football shirt collection, or my Irish international caps that I have hanging on the wall.

Early bird or night owl?

Early bird catches the first worm.

What is your favourite food?

Italian food all the way!

What would your superpower be?

Teleportation, as commuting from Warwickshire to London can be very time consuming.