Griffin Park

Aled Williams, CEng MICE

Director

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

After completing my studies in Civil Engineering, I embarked on my career in the construction industry. I started by taking on various delivery roles with a Tier 1 Contractor, where I gained valuable experience across a range of sectors including Build-to-Rent and Prime Residential, Leisure, and Defence. During my time with the contractor, I had the opportunity to work as a Structural Design Engineer and even had the chance to work on projects in the Middle East, broadening my experience further.

The diverse projects I’ve been involved in have given me a well-rounded expertise in various aspects of built environment projects, including the technical, commercial, and delivery aspects.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

In my role, I have the responsibility of overseeing several key departments within our company, including Project Management, Clerk of Works, and Quality Management. I actively participate in project oversight, offering support to our project teams to ensure that our projects are successful. This often involves attending design meetings and conducting regular site visits to monitor progress and quality.

I play a crucial role in the strategic planning of our projects and our efforts in securing new projects, ensuring our company continues to thrive in the industry.

Describe your experiences and growth at Circle?

I initially joined Circle during the company’s early days as a Project Manager. Over time, I worked towards becoming a Chartered Engineer and have since progressed to the position of Director. Throughout my time at the company, I’ve had the privilege of working on a diverse range of projects. These include residential schemes like Taberner House and Abbey Place, as well as commercial office fit-outs and the restoration of Listed Buildings.

What is your favourite project?

I have enjoyed the experience of working on the Mountbatten House office refurbishment project, due to its unique construction and the sheer scale of the site. Working on listed buildings like Mountbatten House can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. There’s a sense of gratification that comes from being involved in a project from its initial conception all the way through to its successful completion.

What brings you joy outside of work?

As a proud Welshman, it will come as no surprise that I am an avid rugby fan. While my playing days are behind me, my involvement with the sport is now limited to watching from the comfort of the sofa or chasing my son around at Rugby Tots. The rest of my free time is usually spent renovating houses and getting involved in anything construction-related projects. It’s a passion that extends beyond my work and keeps me busy and engaged outside of the office.

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.