What was your career path before KBS Maritime?
I started as an apprentice shipwright for FMRO which was part of the MoD. Subsequently, after I completed my apprenticeship, I worked as shipwright for 7 years and during that time decided I wanted to be a manager. I got my first managerial role as a team manager where I got into Project Management (PM) and worked in ship repair. My first major role was as a planner and after that became a project scheduler, then an assistant PM, then PM and then Senior PM looking after 3 of the Navy’s type 45 re-fit projects.
An opportunity then arose to move over to Naval Base Services where I have spent the last 4 years as a Programme Manager delivering a diverse portfolio of estate projects.
What is your role now and what are some things you do in it?
My title now is Head of Project Execution, where I have responsibility to plan and execute the 2 year Forward Works Plan on behalf of the MOD, through the day to day management of the Projects delivery team (Base/Personnel, Waterfront & Systems), Design team (Civils, electrical, mechanical & structural) & Project controls team (schedule and cost adherence).
My team also work closely with the Programme Leads to enable smooth delivery of projects, programme de-confliction, change requests; and reporting monthly progress into the Project Management Office (PMO).
What do you enjoy most about being Head of Project Execution?
The most exciting thing is the diversity of work. With a different mix of projects no one day is the same. I enjoy the challenge of delivering through adversity especially with old buildings, particularly in waterfront area, and carrying out the impossible to achieve it.
I love being part of new and expanding company like KBS Maritime, building on the success of our parent companies but also creating our own wins and using previous learnings to mirror the achievements and improve on the weaker areas.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I actually wanted to be a car salesman and some of the skills required for that job have come in useful in being a PM.
What are the top 3 things on your bucket list?
- Do a track day on a moto-GP circuit
- Drive down Route 66 (on a motorbike)
- I am a massive Pompey fan, so would love to take some
penalties at Fratton Park
