Alex Alba

Trainee Quantity Surveyor

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

I joined Circle in 2021 after completing my sixth form education. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects, both in the pre and post-contract phases. These projects include new build BTR schemes like One Maidenhead, refurbished commercial buildings such as 43 Brook Green or Mountbatten House, and demolition projects like Marlow Demolition, to name a few. I am currently working towards my degree as part of the apprenticeship scheme and am set to graduate in 2025. Following that, I will be working towards my APC in 2026.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

My role encompasses a blend of pre and post-commercial work, with a focus on assisting the Quantity Surveyor team in key projects throughout the week. A typical week involves engaging in cost exercises, measurement tasks, conducting interim valuations on-site, and dedicating one day per week to attend university during term time. Recently, I’ve taken on a role supporting Carbon Managers in compiling data for Life Cycle Carbon Assessments and assisting in bringing them together. As an apprentice, I work with the Quantity Surveyor team across all projects to develop a comprehensive skillset in all aspects of the field.

Describe your experiences and growth?

I embarked on my professional journey with no prior experience but have since accumulated a diverse range of experiences across various projects. My time at Circle has exposed me to different situations on different projects, allowing me to collaborate with various consultants. I’m currently an apprentice at Circle as part of the degree apprenticeship scheme, which is equipping me with the necessary skills for the industry. This unique opportunity provides me with both in-depth knowledge through key projects and a broad understanding by involving me in various tasks.

My time at Circle has exposed me to different situations on different projects, allowing me to collaborate with various consultants. I’m currently an apprentice at Circle as part of the degree apprenticeship scheme, which is equipping me with the necessary skills for the industry. This unique opportunity provides me with both in-depth knowledge through key projects and a broad understanding by involving me in various tasks.

What is your favourite project?

My favourite project is One Maidenhead, a build-to-rent development in Maidenhead comprising 429 apartments. I’ve been involved with this project from its inception, and it’s rewarding to witness the progress of each element as I visit the site for valuations. Since I’m learning on the job, I find this project particularly valuable for my development. I can analyse and learn specific elements of the work, which, when I’m in the office costing a new project, enables me to provide a more accurate cost.

What brings you joy outside of work?

I’m a passionate tennis player, having previously worked as a tennis coach. I enjoy engaging with the sport both as a player and an enthusiast. Running is another interest I’ve taken up, with half or full marathons on the horizon. I’m also a football lover, always keeping up with the weekend fixtures and results.

Dillon Carson, MRICS

Senior Quantity Surveyor

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

I began my career after a placement year as an assistant Quantity Surveyor and completed my final year of university part-time through the Circle Apprentice Program. I have a depth of experience in pre- and post-contract activities, having worked on various projects in the commercial, residential, and education sectors. My expertise lies in managing costs and budgets from feasibility to tender and reporting on post-contract expenditure.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

My role covers a range of pre-contract management activities. I provide clients with feedback on cost movements, which may be influenced by design changes, market feedback, and legislative amendments. I take full ownership of managing cost plans and contribute to the design while ensuring that the client’s budget is maintained, and buildability is a priority for the design team and clients’ decisions. I achieve this by seeking specialist and supply chain input. I maintain close communication with clients and work closely with the design team to assist with decision-making, producing risk and opportunity trackers, movement trackers, and cost exercises. My role also involves tendering various projects, and I keep clients updated on the progress of tenders. Following my success in Circle’s APC Chartership Program, I aim to support and guide upcoming employees in achieving their APC Chartership through one-on-one Q&A sessions, mock APC interviews, and reviewing their experiences to ensure they have a wide range of expertise heading into APC interviews.

Describe your experiences and growth?

I started with Circle through the Circle apprentice program following two years at university and a placement year. I graduated from university with a First-Class Honors degree and immediately joined the Circle APC Chartership Program. With close support and guidance from Circle, I successfully obtained my RICS accreditation a year and a half after graduating. Throughout my time at Circle, I played a key role in completing various projects, including a 245-unit BTR scheme in Abbey Place, the refurbishment of Westminster School Cricket Pavilion, and refurbishments of multiple offices around the UK, including Birmingham, Glasgow, and South West London.

What is your favourite project?

My favourite project was Snow Hill, where I served as the lead QS from feasibility to a successful planning application in Q2 2023. The 48-storey BTR scheme in the centre of Birmingham brought complexities that I managed by working closely with a team of leading UK design consultants. I kept the client well-informed about the estimated project cost and advised the client on key value engineering opportunities. This landmark project expanded my expertise and experience in construction technology and buildability, involving the use of a bespoke unitised façade due to height restrictions.

What brings you joy outside of work?

My interests revolve around participating in and watching sports. I enjoy playing golf when the weather allows. I also took part in the Royal Parks half marathon, raising money for charity alongside several Circle employees. I am a fair-weather cyclist, having recently cycled in Mallorca and completed the London to Brighton ride with Circle colleagues. I love traveling abroad, with my favourite holiday consisting of a road trip around the Canadian Rockies, which included whale watching, kayaking, and hiking around the turquoise lakes of British Columbia.

Following my success in Circle’s APC Chartership Programme, I aim to support and guide upcoming employees in achieving their APC Chartership through one-on-one Q&A sessions, mock APC interviews, and reviewing their experiences to ensure they have a wide range of expertise heading into APC interviews.

Peter Christmas, MRICS

Director

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

Having started my career working for a Tier 1 main contractor working within the education, retail and rail sectors, I offer a range of experience from various sectors within the industry and specialise in the tendering and procurement of forward-funded construction projects. I work closely with clients to ensure the delivery of their vision is realised. I have significant experience in setting and managing project budgets, starting from acquisition through to project completion. Additionally, I possess an astute understanding of contract administration, with several years of experience in carrying out the Employer’s Agent/Contract Administrator role across multiple projects.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

In my role at Circle, I have a hands-on approach to managing the commercial team. I ensure that the team maintains high standards at all levels of the business. On a day-to-day basis, I am actively involved in the delivery of projects, with a constant focus on ensuring that the clients’ key KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) are at the forefront of the project team’s priorities. Additionally, I manage our key supply chain members and maintain critical relationships to facilitate project delivery and keep the Circle team ahead of industry advancements.

Describe your experiences and growth at Circle?

I have been a part of the Circle journey since the very beginning, contributing to multiple sectors and focusing on delivering commercial services from pre-acquisition all the way through to project completion. My background as a Quantity Surveyor and Employer’s Agent, managing complex forward-funded developments, has positioned me to take a leading role in Circle’s commercial team.

What brings you joy outside of work?

I’m a keen sportsman, spending my weekends trail running and getting out to enjoy the weekends either on two feet, or two wheels alike. I also love exploring the UK and Europe whenever I get the chance on camping trips, usually not too far away from my Wirehaired Vizsla! Skiing is also among my other hobbies, making Circles annual trip a personal highlight of the year!

Rupert Pelly

Quantity Surveyor & Carbon Manager

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

I began my career in Construction in November 2021 when I, during lockdown, took on the role of Site Carpenter/Site Foreman, working on several home renovations in the south of England. This experience ignited my passion for property development and a strong desire to work in the sector. Building on this, I combined my Accounting and Finance Bachelor’s Degree with my on-site experience, transitioning to a role as a Quantity Surveyor in both residential and commercial sectors. I also have a keen interest in Carbon Quantification and am working towards my BREEAM accreditation. I firmly believe that carbon optioneering is essential for a successful project and strive to make clients aware of more carbon-friendly construction methods.

I have a keen interest in Carbon Quantification and am working towards my BREEAM accreditation. I firmly believe that carbon optioneering is essential for a successful project and strive to make clients aware of more carbon-friendly construction methods.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

As a Quantity Surveyor, my responsibilities span financial, contractual administration, and project coordination, ensuring that construction projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. I have a significant role in Life Cycle Carbon Assessments at Circle, overseeing the production of assessments throughout the company. This role is crucial in mitigating the environmental impact of building projects by considering carbon emissions at all stages, from material extraction to end-of-life. Additionally, I take pride in organising the annual Circle ski trip, managing budgets and delivering on expectations.

Describe your experiences and growth at Circle?

I joined Circle in May 2022 as an Assistant Quantity Surveyor and Project Manager. Over time, I have evolved into a more prominent Quantity Surveyor and Employers Agent role. I appreciate the flexibility offered by Circle, allowing me to explore and experience various roles within the company. I have gradually taken on more responsibilities in the two post-contract projects I am involved in and aim to continue my development with the company.

What is your favourite project?

Mountbatten House holds a special place as my favourite project for various reasons. The uniqueness of the building itself, the challenge of renovating an existing frame while reducing its carbon footprint, and the rejuvenation of the fantastic garden terraces are all sources of excitement. I envy those who will have the opportunity to work there upon completion. Nonetheless, I hold great respect for my other projects as well.

What brings you joy outside of work?

I’m always eager to dive into various activities, whether it’s sports, dinners, festivals, or nights out. When I’m not dining out or cooking, you’ll find me cycling for outdoor fun or enjoying a few drinks with friends. I’m enthusiastic about using my holidays to explore new countries and cultures. However, there’s nothing wrong with a cozy night in with a takeaway curry to recharge.

Oliver Grindle, MRICS

Employer's Agent

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

I began my career as an estimator for a regional main contractor in Derbyshire while pursuing my Master’s in Quantity Surveying. Upon completing my course, I relocated to London and joined a Tier 1 Main contractor, focusing on residential, commercial, and healthcare sectors. Since joining Circle, I’ve worked on new build residential, co-living, and office projects in the capacity of a Quantity Surveyor.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

As a Quantity Surveyor, I combine technical and soft skills to provide commercial services to my clients. My role is diverse, covering both pre and post-contract duties. Pre-contract, I prepare cost estimates for projects, monitor design progression, handle procurement, and negotiate build contracts. The cost estimates can be produced from feasibility stage to stage 4 design. Post-contract, I manage the client’s commercial interests and administer contracts on live projects. This work includes monitoring changes to the contract, negotiating costs, tracking progress on-site, and conducting monthly valuations of work.

Describe your experiences and growth at Circle?

I joined Circle in 2023 as a Quantity Surveyor. As the newest team member, I’ve quickly settled into my role and adapted well. I’ve been assigned as the Quantity Surveyor for a significant build-to-rent residential scheme in Maidenhead and manage the pre-contract phase of a co-living scheme that also involves building housing for a charity.

What is your favourite project?

My favourite project is One Maidenhead. This £95 million scheme comprises four towers of build-to-rent apartments atop two floors of amenity space and commercial units. It’s set to revitalise Maidenhead town centre by adding over four hundred units and ample commercial space. The surrounding area has been redesigned and will feature green space for the local community. Private gardens for residents are nestled between the blocks at the mezzanine level. The scale and impact of the scheme make it stand out as the tallest development in the area.

What brings you joy outside of work?

Outside of work, I stay active by going to the gym a few times a week and occasionally returning to Derbyshire for long walks in the Peak District. I make the most of my annual leave by traveling, most recently visiting old university friends in Jordan and experiencing one of the seven wonders of the world. I’m an avid skier, having done a season when I was younger. I also enjoy festivals (attended Glastonbury six times), playing golf and tennis, and have recently taken up cycling. In September, I completed the London to Brighton cycle for charity, despite not having much prior long-distance cycling experience. I believe I need more stamina training before joining the Circle Cycling Club!

Ned Smithies

Quantity Surveyor & Carbon Manager

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

I began my career working for a Main Contractor on site as a QS in Purpose Built Student Accommodation, managing subcontractors on a daily basis. I then joined Circle in 2020 to move to client side, taking a focus in carrying out the Employer’s Agent / Contract Administration role and Cost Consultancy within the residential, education and heritage sectors. Recently, I have taken an interest in the way that carbon can be reduced and mitigated by way of carbon management within the built environment, providing advise to clients on how to build greener for their developments.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

I have a blend of both pre and post contract projects at Circle. The day to day role on the pre-contract project includes carrying out tendering and procurement with main contractors, cost exercises and keeping open dialogue with our supply chain to keep control of any materials cost variations. On post-contract projects, I undertake roles such the Employer’s Agent / Contract Administrator on behalf of clients, ensuring the contract is being adhered to by all parties party to it. I oversee the commercial aspects of projects and advise our clients on the best ways to proceed and overcome any obstacles that naturally arise on developments.

Describe your experiences and growth at Circle?

I started Circle as a Graduate QS and has since then progressed to a Quantity Surveyor, I enjoy the daily challenges which are presented to him whilst working at Circle. The Circle team are close knit, which means that opportunity to experience an array of different experience is given, along with the responsibility of making decisions and face to face exposure with clients from early within my career.

What is your favourite project?

My favourite project has been Wembley Link which is a 256 home BtR scheme, I was present for the first pile being installed and will be present when the last tree is planted within the extensive external works, this was also my first project at Circle so it will also be remembered. The opportunity to learn, with the senior team at Circle overseeing the project, but allowing me to take the lead in decision making and advising my client was invaluable to my learning, whilst also ensuring our clients had the best quality service.

What brings you joy outside of work?

I am an avid sports fan, primarily Rugby and Cricket who can often been found on a Saturday at Old Deer Park watching London Welsh play rugby. I am also a keen cyclist which is often how Saturday mornings are spent in and around London with friends. When I am not in London I am often back in Pembrokeshire (where I grew up) on my parents farm, usually causing more hinderance then help.

I enjoy socialising in the evening and on weekends around London making the most of the great pubs and many of restaurants that London has to offer.

Phil Swainston

Quantity Surveyor & Project Manager

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

I started my career as a professional rugby player, representing teams like Wasps, Harlequins, and finishing in Rouen, France. During my rugby career, I pursued higher education, earning a business management degree from Northumbria University and a Masters in Real Estate. My interest in the property industry grew during my playing days, and I undertook work experience roles with companies like JLL and Berkeley Homes during the off-season.

I specialise in various aspects of the property industry, including cost planning, tender/procurement management, employers agent roles, and valuations. My experience spans across residential, commercial, and education sectors. I also have a keen interest in Carbon Quantification and its potential impact on the construction industry.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

My role involves a blend of Quantity Surveying, Employer’s Agent, and Project Management, both in the pre-contract and post-contract phases. In the pre-contract phase, I conduct feasibility studies, create pre-tender cost plans, collaborate with design consultants to ensure the project aligns with the client’s needs, assist with contract negotiations, and engage in problem-solving. In the post-contract phase, I handle monthly on-site valuations, cost reports, and cash flows. I issue change orders and provide an Employer’s Agent report to the client on a monthly basis. Ensuring practical completion of projects in accordance with the Employer’s Requirements is also a vital part of my role. Recently, I’ve expanded my knowledge in Life Cycle Carbon Assessments, which allows me to assist clients in planning and reducing carbon emissions from their developments.

Describe your experiences and growth at Circle?

I joined Circle in August 2022 as an assistant Quantity Surveyor and Project Manager and have played a key role in the Aberfeldy Village redevelopment, which will provide 1,582 new high-quality homes. I’ve also been involved in the Talgarth Road PBSA, the UK’s largest forward-funded purpose-built student accommodation. Since then, I’ve worked on numerous other projects, gaining exposure to all stages of the construction process and accelerating my development. I’m currently enrolled in the Circle APC Chartership Programme and aim to become MRICS by Autumn 2024.

I’ve worked on numerous other projects, gaining exposure to all stages of the construction process and accelerating my development. I’m currently enrolled in the Circle APC Chartership Programme and aim to become MRICS by Autumn 2024.

What is your favourite project?

My favourite project is Water Lane, a build-to-rent development in Leeds with McLaren Living, consisting of 375 apartments. I’ve been involved since the early RIBA stages and have enjoyed collaborating with the design team to ensure a high-quality, efficient building is constructed. As the project enters the delivery stage, I’m excited to see the design come to life in an area I grew up in. Another favourite project of mine is Beech Street in the City of London, on the edge of the famous Barbican Estate. It’s set to become a Co-Living development, a new concept in the UK rental market that focuses on community living.

What brings you joy outside of work?

I have a passion for various sports, including Rugby, Cricket, Football, Golf, and Tennis. However, I’ve recently taken up padel tennis, which has become my new favourite. Finding a court in London can be a challenge, but it’s worth it. I love to travel and explore less-traveled areas across the globe, with my favourite destinations being Canada and the Philippines.

Cameron Cladd

Assistant Quantity Surveyor

Construction is inevitably unpredictable, I closely work with everyone around me to advise clients on various obstacles and opportunities from feasibility through to completion, ensuring our clients vision are realised.

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

I started my career as a Placement student, joining Circle during my third year at Loughborough University. Predominantly relying on academic education, I utilised the gradual exposure from being involved within post-contract residential schemes to gain a greater insight into the role itself. The main sectors I have worked on during my career is residential and commercial.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

My role consists of the entire construction process, from providing clients with costing expertise in the design stages right through to managing both the financial and contractual sides of a post-contract project. I aid within the quantification process of cost plans, allowing for key insights into the estimated price of a specific project, ensuring that the client’s budget expectations are both visualised and maximised. Whilst consistently having efficient communication with the client and contracting teams, I can support my colleagues in costing exercises and decision-making processes. Also, as construction is inevitably unpredictable, I closely work with everyone around me to advise clients on various obstacles and opportunities, allowing for a fluent process of dialogue.

Describe your experiences and growth at Circle?

I commenced my career with Circle as a Placement student from Loughborough University. I have since graduated with a First-Class Honours Degree and have committed to joining the Circle APC Chartership Program. With the consistent support from experienced colleagues, I aim to have achieved my RICS accreditation within 18 months after university. Despite only having a short career thus far, I have aided in progressing multiple projects such as Latitude Purple and Wembley Link, whilst also being heavily involved in a multitude of cost plans.

What has been your favourite project?

My favourite project was Wembley Link, which perfectly balanced a challenging yet insightful workload, enabling me to kick start my career whilst dramatically proving that learning construction in a lecture hall is nothing compared to being on-site in person. The 256-unit scheme located in Wembley Central placed me in the deep end of a construction project, exponentially accelerating my learning curve.

What brings you joy outside of work?

Despite being the completely wrong height for any sport, being the 3^rd smallest person in the office, I love to take part in most types of sports including football and running. I also have a passion in attending sports events, in hopes of witnessing Tottenham Hotspur win a trophy before I retire in 40 years’ time. Having recently moved to London, I have taken the opportunity to learning new cooking recipes by eating at various restaurants around the city and attempting to copy them. This plays perfectly in my current favourite hobby, spending time on the weekends visiting new pubs with friends and colleagues

Joe Cutler, FRICS

Managing Director

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

I originally started my career as an apprentice site Quantity Surveyor with Tier 1 main contractor Laing O’Rourke, all while pursuing a Quantity Surveying degree. During this time, I gained hands-on experience delivering large, complex projects in aerospace, residential, large-scale commercial regenerations, and healthcare.

I shifted my focus to client-side project delivery, specialising in tendering, procurement, and contract administration. I was at the forefront of the UK build-to-rent sector, overseeing the delivery of one of the first institutionally funded schemes in North Acton.

In 2018, I founded Circle with a clear mission: to simplify the project delivery offering available to clients. I aimed to remove multifaceted teams and instill a detail-focused mindset across all team members. My focus is on continuous improvement and staying ahead of industry advancements, such as the Building Safety Act, while also investing in Circle’s development and positioning in the Carbon Management sector. I proudly received fellowship from RICS in 2022.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

As the Managing Director, my role includes overseeing all Circle functions, managing people, business planning, conducting project reviews, and engaging with the supply chain. I also enjoy actively managing projects at key stages, including initial feasibility and procurement, alongside the expert teams within Circle. I take an active role in Life Cycle Carbon Assessments and Life Cycle Costing studies, as I have a deep passion for this emerging sector. My goal is to empower clients with the knowledge they need to make the right decisions for the future.

I take an active role in Life Cycle Carbon Assessments and Life Cycle Costing studies, as I have a deep passion for this emerging sector. My goal is to empower clients with the knowledge they need to make the right decisions for the future.

What is your favourite project?

I don’t have a clear favourite project, but I have recently enjoyed the conversion and repurposing of the Beech Street project in the City of London. I presented Circle’s work to the planning officers, highlighting the analysis, benefits, and comparison of design options. The One Maidenhead BtR project is where I call home, and as a result, I have experienced firsthand the positive impact that this large-scale regeneration can have on town centres. The brickwork looks great from the station platform each morning!

What brings you joy outside of work?

At home, my main hobby is keeping up with two babies and a cockapoo! I have a keen interest in motorsports, having spent over ten years racing superbikes at club level around the UK circuits, starting in the junior 125cc classes and progressing to 600cc before transitioning to off-road trials riding. More recently, I’ve traded big engines and high speeds for the occasional half marathon and coastal walks with my family and fluffy dog.

Josh Cridland

Trainee Quantity Surveyor

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

I am taking my first practical steps into the world of Quantity Surveying during my placement with Circle. I am currently focusing on honing my skills in measurement and cost planning, within the residential sector. Although my previous experience is primarily academic, I am eager to develop my skills whilst contributing to the company.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

I play a multifaceted role engaging in both pre and post contract tasks. I assist the QS team while also taking ownership of responsibilities whenever possible. A typical week for me is a blend of activities, involving cost exercises, feasibility studies, and precise measurements for projects at various stages of development. My keen eye for detail ensures no stone is left unturned in these crucial processes. Lately, I have also begun to embrace a more hands-on role by participating in monthly interim valuations, site walks, and attending progress meetings. With a relentless pursuit of excellence and a strong work ethic, I am shaping myself into an valuable asset in the world of Quantity Surveying.

My journey with Circle has only just begun, I am looking forward to completing University and enrolling onto the Circle APC Chartership progamme

Describe your experiences and growth at Circle?

My journey with Circle has only just begun, as I recently embarked on his placement year with the company in 2023. Although, I am only a Trainee QS I plays a vital role in the Wembley Link development and prospective projects. I am looking to return to Circle as a graduate after completing my final year at university and enroll onto the Circle APC Chartership Program.

What is your favourite project?

I have been passionate about the Wembley Link project, a prominent build-to-rent development in Wembley, from the moment I joined the company. My involvement in this venture, which encompasses 245 apartments, has been a rewarding journey filled with numerous challenges that have provided valuable learning opportunities. Additionally, the stunning stadium view makes this residential building truly stand out as a premium landmark in the area.

What brings you joy outside of work?

In my spare time I play ultimate frisbee, last year claiming a bronze at University Mixed Indoor Nationals playing for Loughborough University. I also enjoy spinning discs up on the turntables, mixing between different genres of drum and bass playing to massive imaginary crowds in my bedroom.