Behind every successful construction project lies a story of vision, expertise, and teamwork. Today, we take a look at the career of seasoned senior project manager, Mike Weeks.
The Spark of Inspiration
With a foundation in Civil and Structural Engineering as well as Finance, a career in construction project management felt like a natural progression. The joy of seeing projects evolve from an idea on paper to a tangible structure, witnessing change and progress daily, is what drives Mike’s passion.
A Career Built on Experience
Beginning in the public transport sector, the transition to construction was swift. Mike's career journey has predominantly involved working as a client-side project manager, either directly employed by clients or as a consultant. This path has provided opportunities to travel the world, managing projects across Europe and even spending two years in Toronto.
Proud Moments in the Field
Among many accomplishments, two projects stand out:
This was an incredibly challenging project, faced with external impacts like Covid-19, aviation industry shut-down, planning delays and environmental complexity. However the construction was delivered safely, on time, on budget and without impact to airport operations.
Bloomberg Building, London
Overseeing the shift from construction to business-as-usual operations for this iconic building involved relocating 4,000 employees. Meticulous planning ensured business continuity throughout the transition.
Skills for Success
Success in construction project management requires excellent communication - being a good listener, and very patient. It’s also important to avoid being dragged into every little detail (ensuring you are supported by a trusted team of experts), so the project can be led and guided through to completion.
Navigating On-Site Challenges
Change and unplanned events are inevitable on projects and it is important not to react emotionally. The key is to stay calm, assess the situation’s impact on the broader project, and respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively. Despite cost and time criticality, it’s important to avoid a rushed response and take time to react in the best way possible.
A Day in the Life of a Construction Project Manager
No two days are the same. Whilst the focus is on long-term planning and strategic priorities, inevitably things crop up on a day-by-day basis that need immediate attention. Maintaining the balance of urgent and important is a key part of the job.
The Construction Process: From Start to Finish
The most rewarding moments in the construction process are the beginning, where possibilities are endless, and the end, where a project is delivered safely, on time, and within budget, meeting all client and stakeholder needs.
This is a constant and ongoing process which requires looking ahead to proactively manage change and risk, continually assessing scope, cost and time. Working with the project team ensures that key parameters and priorities are clear and understood.
Lessons Learned
Experience is a teacher like no other. Asking questions, taking advice, and learning from others helps to avoid the mistakes of the past.
Building Relationships
Strong relationships with clients, contractors, and team members are built on effective communication - asking questions and listening leads to an understanding of each person’s role, motivations, and character. This allows the project manager to motivate the team, give direction and make decisions.
Staying Updated
Keeping updated with industry trends and best practices involves reading, networking, and surrounding oneself with experts.
Misconceptions About the Industry
A common misunderstanding is the belief that projects can always be completed quickly and cheaply. In reality, quality construction takes time and appropriate investment.
Motivations and Challenges
Fear of failure and letting others down serves as a strong motivator. Balancing work and personal life remains a persistent challenge - project management is not a 9-5, 5 days-a-week job, particularly when projects are on site.
Mike's Personal Insights and Reflections
Dream Project
Rebuilding Old Trafford would be a dream come true!
Favourite Structures
Natural structures like imposing mountains or ancient trees are awe-inspiring, though man-made designs that complement their surroundings, such as dry-stone walls in the Yorkshire Dales or a ribbon of asphalt winding up a mountain side, hold a special charm.
Hobbies
Sports and family time offer a refreshing break from work.
Alternate Career
A career outdoors would have been appealing, although project management offers the chance to be out and about.
Best Advice
'The harder I work, the luckier I become.'
Looking Ahead
It’s great to be part of a small team and a small company, where my actions have a genuine and direct impact on the direction and success of the company. Goals for the coming year include the successful completion of a major project at Bournemouth Airport and the first project handover as a developer for Iconic.
Author
Mike Weeks
Mike has over 20 years experience in the construction industry, delivering both single site projects and multi-site programmes of work. He has worked in the retail, aviation, commercial and real estate sectors, in both client and consultant organisations
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