Associate Director, Fit Out, Construction, UK
I studied architecture and technology at Sheffield Hallam University for four years and then worked for an architectural firm for about eight years. I came to Mace to achieve great things and work for a global firm that really pushes the boundaries. I was offered the opportunity to head up my own team for an entire business unit and it's been great.
I can be doing anything from meeting and working with clients to developing designs to better meet their requirements, to visiting sites, and directing other design mangers on bids and projects. Every project is different and as a design manager I need to understand what the client wants to achieve - what will make a difference to them.
You need to be able to problem solve and come up with working solutions with other architects and bring a concept to life. You have to be creative, flexible, know your market and be open to new ideas. You also need to keep up with new software and technology that comes our way because you’re expected to be able to use it.
Having an appreciation for each client’s needs and challenges is crucial, as is experience and confidence in presenting design solutions. Interior designs have changed dramatically over the last 10 years and continue to do so. Clients want and need the best design to recruit and retain the best people in today’s world and it’s my responsibility to make sure that what we present addresses the current and future needs of a business.
We’re using a lot more BIM in the new build environment but not that much in the fit-out arena. Instead of the big trend being about new technology, I think it’s about improving efficiencies across the board, including communication and collaboration - everything is still done through email. I'd like to see a move to chat rooms to discuss innovations instead of a two-way email stream which doesn’t lend to getting people involved.
Associate Director, Fit Out, Construction, UK