The building consultancy partner on juggling work and family commitments, his admiration for risk-taking entrepreneurs, the importance of good time-keeping and why being a “shy bairn” is not recommended
Why did you choose construction as a career?
My grandad and uncle were both quantity surveyors and, from a young age, I was exposed to the construction industry. I like the daily variety of work and tasks. I also enjoy meeting new people and the different interactions between clients and contractors.
What are you most proud of in your career to date?
Developing a building consultancy team at Naylors and achieving growth with them year-on-year, undertaking projects right across the UK.
I am also still hugely proud of becoming a chartered surveyor.
What has been the biggest challenge of your career to date?
Juggling home and work commitments since having children.
If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?
I would make it much more difficult for unqualified people – cowboy builders and, to a lesser extent, cowboy surveyors – to take on work and provide advice.
What is the most helpful advice that you have been given?
It’s not advice given specifically to a surveyor but, when I moved to the North-east of England, I was told of the saying “shy bairns get nowt” (don’t ask and you won’t get). This has really stuck with me.
Name your favourite building in the world?
Being in Newcastle, I love 102 Grey Street (the former Lloyds Bank) – it’s one of the best buildings in the city.
Which famous building do you most dislike?
Being a Birmingham City fan, it has got to be Villa Park!
Which famous building do you wish you had worked on?
The Empire State building or St Paul’s Cathedral – both monumental, iconic buildings of their times. I can only imagine how sick the partners of the people who worked on those were every time they passed them and heard, “I worked on that”.
What single piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in your profession?
Don’t be afraid to fail. Failing and/or making mistakes early in your career while being overseen by more senior and experienced colleagues will help you to grow.
Who do you most admire in the construction industry?
Not one person but the entrepreneurs who start out and take risks for greater things. I love the stories about people winning and achieving great things against the odds or via sheer hard work.
What is it like being you (and doing your job)?
I often describe myself as having a multiple personality disorder with my ever-changing roles and adjusting myself to conversations with clients, contractors and members of the public.
Do you have a life philosophy?
As above, “shy bairns get nowt” (borrowed from the Geordies)
What do you think your best quality is?
Navigating ambiguity to move opportunities forward.
What trait do you most dislike in yourself? And in other people?
Tardiness. I hate to be late myself and I don’t enjoy waiting around for others or being stood up.
Name three things that you like
Golf, Guiness and a challenge.
Early bird or night owl?
It all depends on my mood. I am more productive in the mornings but I also enjoy a night out, socialising.
What is your favourite food?
A full English breakfast.
What would your superpower be?
Invisibility or telepathy.
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