Quantity Surveyor
emma.mcfarland@circledevelopment.co.uk
What expertise and background do you bring to the table?
Having originally graduated with an Economics and Finance Degree, I bring a strong analytical background. I joined the construction industry on a graduate scheme at a property developer, where I worked my way up through the ranks from graduate to Quantity Surveyor, whilst also completing my Master’s in Quantity Surveying and gaining my RICS accreditation.
I have gained valuable experience working on site on a mixture of high-end residential projects, shared ownership and fire remedial works, as well as delivering a luxury senior living scheme with all the resident’s facilities you can think of! I am detail-oriented and have developed my knowledge through managing various trade packages from temporary works to internal fit outs. I have been involved in both pre- and post-contract duties, particularly enjoying the pre-contract element, as I see it as an opportunity to set a project up for success.
Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?
Pre-contract, I am responsible for preparing cost plans and tracking cost movements as the design progresses, as well as highlighting risks and identifying opportunities to ensure clients are always fully informed throughout the process. As a project moves into the tendering and procurement phase, I advise on appropriate strategies to suit the client and achieve the best overall value.
Post-contract, I administer the contract and monitor costs against the budget. This includes carrying out monthly valuations, agreeing changes to the contract, tracking progress and reporting to clients.
What excites you about joining Circle, and what are your goals for the future?
I was initially attracted to Circle due to the variety of projects and the strong focus on carbon. It was clear from the start that everyone in the team is passionate about getting stuck into the detail and ensuring projects are delivered successfully. Furthermore, the importance placed on professional development is second to none, with frequent management catch ups, CPD sessions and goal setting. The annual ski trip was also a big selling point!
The term “simplifying complexity” resonates with me, as more often than not, the construction industry overcomplicates issues that can be resolved by stripping them back to basics and identifying a straightforward solution.
It is an exciting time to join Circle, given the rapid growth and strong pipeline of projects. I am looking forward to getting involved in a variety of schemes and further developing my knowledge. Circle’s Lifecycle Carbon Assessments are of particular interest to me; having written my Master’s dissertation on sustainability in procurement, I am keen to understand how I can positively influence carbon usage on projects. Additionally, the focus on carbon at Circle reflects the company’s commitment to leaving a lasting positive impact on construction projects and enabling clients to make fully informed decisions when considering the whole lifecycle of a scheme.
What brings you joy outside of work?
I spend most of my time outside of work in the gym or running, whether that be training for a CrossFit competition, Hyrox race or half marathon. In the future, I would love to do a marathon, Ironman and some CrossFit competitions abroad. I also enjoy cooking and eating out with friends– my Google Maps is covered in pins for restaurants I want to try!
