Stepping into your new role as Managing Director, what are your priorities for DBSJ and how do you see the business evolving under your leadership? 

My priority is to keep building on the foundations that have made DBSJ what it is today. We’ve got a brilliant team, strong relationships and a way of working that genuinely sets us apart. 

One of my main focuses is really pushing forward what integrated design and build actually means. We’ve got an in-house technical design team, an in-house manufacturing facility and experienced operational teams all working together under one roof. That collaboration gives us a real advantage and allows us to deliver projects in a way that is detailed, coordinated and considered from start to finish. 

Looking ahead, I want DBSJ to continue evolving as a trusted partner for our clients. We want to keep delivering exciting projects, investing in our people and processes, and maintaining the passion and pride that run throughout the business. Growth is important, but preserving quality, culture and relationships is equally important to me. 

What key experiences or projects have shaped your approach to design and build throughout your career? 

Working on technically challenging projects has shaped my approach the most. Schemes with multiple trades, elaborate detailing, difficult programmes and a lot of moving parts teach you the importance of planning, communication and collaboration. 

Projects like Conductor in Westfield Stratford are a great example of that. From the outset, we understood there were a lot of complex elements involved, whether that was the atrium works, staircase installations, landlord contractors, multiple finishes or coordinating specialist trades all within a very tight programme. These types of projects reinforce how important teamwork is. It’s never one person but the combined effort of the design teams, site teams, supply chain and manufacturing teams all working together towards the same goal. That collaborative approach has shaped how I view design and build today. 

Who or what has influenced you most in all these years, and how has that shaped your approach today? 

I’ve been influenced by a lot of people throughout my career, particularly the people I’ve worked alongside day to day. Construction is an industry where you’re constantly learning from experienced teams, supply chains and clients, and that naturally impacts the way you work over time. 

Working within a family-run business environment has also had a profound influence on me. There’s a real sense of pride, accountability and responsibility that comes with that. You genuinely care about the people within the business and the reputation you’re building together. 

More than anything, it’s inspiring to see passionate people who truly care about what they do. One thing that always stands out to me on projects is the dedication from our teams, whether that’s people working through difficult programmes, solving problems on site or going above and beyond to make sure projects are delivered properly. That commitment is something I really value and try to reflect in my own approach. 

How has your perspective on the industry evolved over the course of your career? 

It has changed massively over the years, particularly in how collaboration is understood and the expectations clients now have of design and build contractors. It’s no longer just about delivering a project to programme and budget, clients expect genuine partnership, technical expertise and added value throughout the entire process. 

Projects today are also far more complex than they used to be. There are more specialist trades, more technical coordination and much greater emphasis on sustainability and future thinking. That means businesses must be adaptable and willing to evolve constantly. 

What’s stayed consistent is that people are at the heart of everything. No matter how technically advanced projects become, successful delivery still comes down to having the right people, the right culture and strong collaboration between teams. 

For those looking to build a career in this industry, what advice would you give based on your own journey? 

My advice would always be to stay curious and be willing to learn. Design and build is an industry where no two days are ever the same, and the people who do well are the ones who embrace that and continue developing themselves. 

Do not underestimate the importance of relationships and communication. Projects are built by people, and being able to work collaboratively with teams, clients and supply chains is just as important as technical knowledge. 

Most importantly, take pride in your work. One thing I’ve always admired within this industry is seeing people genuinely care about what they’re delivering, whether that’s on site, within design teams or in manufacturing. If you work hard, stay reliable and keep a positive attitude, opportunities will always come from that. 

What makes you most proud about DBSJ?  

The people, no doubt. We’ve got an exceptional team who really care about the work they’re delivering. There’s a real sense of pride in what we do. Every project we complete is the result of a huge team effort. Sometimes it’s easy to forget just how much skill, hard work and collaboration go into making that happen. Seeing people develop within the business, take on new challenges and contribute to our growth is something I’m incredibly proud of. We’ve achieved a lot over the years, but for me it’s the people behind that success that make DBSJ what it is.