Scottish building and development firm Robertson Group has hired MacInnes to lead its construction division which has had recent success in the PFI schools market 鈥� MacInnes鈥檚 specialism.

How did you get started in construction?

I followed my father into the industry, dabbling with quantity surveying before settling on a career in construction management.

Your previous employers?

I started with Shanks & McEwan in 1989, was subsequently with HBG and Skanska and Carillion.

The greatest influence in your professional life?

John Morley, of John Morley Associates, whose advice and direction I benefited from during my time at Skanska, and John McDonagh, Carillion鈥檚 chief executive, for his passion and drive.

Favourite project you鈥檝e worked on?

At Skanska, Princes Exchange in Edinburgh gave me the most sense of achievement. Then, at Carillion, we stepped in to complete a Unite accommodation project in Glasgow where the contractor had gone into liquidation. We completed the project in time to allow students to move in.

The best piece of advice you鈥檝e received?

A quote by [management guru] Lauren Appley sums it up: 鈥淢anagement means helping people to get the best out of themselves, not organising things.鈥�

Biggest challenge in stepping up to an MD role?

The need to be consistent in your dealings. You can鈥檛 afford to have a bad day where you take your frustrations out on the nearest person.

Best building?

Gaudi鈥檚 Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. It鈥檚 not just the beauty of the building; it has a massive profile, it鈥檚 late, over budget and there鈥檚 no end in sight. But no-one seems concerned, unlike with the Scottish Parliament and Wembley.

The UK鈥檚 standout PFI scheme?

For me it鈥檚 Swindon鈥檚 Great Western Hospital, where PFI has shown it can deliver good sustainable practices and maintain the partnering spirit.

Is allowing funders to sell investments after completion good for PFI projects?

PFI is funded with private sector cash so there must be good financial reasons for funders to lend. Long-term interests can be maintained through managing the project company and FM.

Would you recommend construction to your kids?

Yes, to both my sons. My experiences have restored my faith in the industry and as such I鈥檓 a CITB Construction Ambassador.

Source

Construction Manager