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Why have you gone into construction? 

I spent the last 10 years dealing with the issues surrounding school buildings in Leicestershire and got a real buzz out of my involvement in taking building schemes from concept planning through to completion – it gave me a close insight into the construction industry and I was attracted by what I saw.

Biggest challenge in your new role?

Remembering to approach issues from a commercial viewpoint, but remaining sensitive to the constraints under which local authorities operate. Local authorities have to be very cautious about spending and procurement decisions.

What problems did you have liaising with contractors in your past jobs? 

The traditional ‘lowest tender wins’ scenario I sometimes found very difficult, especially if my client (the head teacher) was pushing for all he or she could get. I am a firm believer in the partnering approach as the adversarial relationships that can exist take up too much time and energy, and often result in disappointments all round.

How will you avoid those now? 

Good communication, clear understanding and strong relationships lie at the heart of any successful enterprise.

What are your professional goals?

To make a success of a move into the private sector and to continue to assist in delivering exciting schools.

Best advice you’ve received? 

When under pressure or unhappy, write the letter you want to send. Tear it up, then write the letter you should send.

Favourite building?

St Paul’s Cathedral. Built without the benefit of steel scaffolding, hydraulic platforms or cranes. It also survived the Blitz – a remarkable building.

How do you unwind? 

Gardening, bird watching and walking.

I have also run about 30 half-marathons and one London Marathon.

Would you recommend construction to friends and family?

Yes. It’s not all about noisy diggers and sites. The career opportunities are endless, the skills you gain are a passport for life – it’s what you make it.