Latitude Purple

Adam Wilson

Clerk Of Works

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

I started my career in construction with a national housebuilder, where I gained 10 years’ experience as a Site Manager. During that time, I honed my skills in construction site management, residential property surveying, and domestic retrofit. I also pursued extensive studies in offsite construction and whole-life carbon in construction.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

In my current role, I conduct regular site visits to ensure that construction on site meets quality standards, complies with designs, and adheres to safety protocols. I also provide weekly progress reports on site works and perform snagging inspections to guarantee that the final product meets our high-quality standards.

Describe your experiences and growth at Circle?

I joined Circle in February 2023 and was appointed as Clerk of Works on our Leeds I and Leeds II developments. This role allows me to apply my expertise in construction and ensure the successful execution of our projects.

What is your favourite project?

I couldn’t possibly pick between my two Leeds projects; without risk of upsetting the neighbours!!

What brings you joy outside of work?

Outside of work, I’m a dedicated musician with a history of being part of (semi) successful bands. I’ve had the experience of performing at renowned festivals such as Reading & Leeds and touring the UK. These days, I spend most weekends performing in wedding bands throughout Yorkshire, including some celebrity weddings. I’m also a passionate footballer, although I don’t play as frequently as I used to, thanks to the increased injury risk that comes with my thirties!

Lloyd Thomas, CEng MICE

Associate Director

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

While studying Civil Engineering at University, I began my career as a placement student site engineer for a Tier 1 Contractor. Working on a police training facility in Yorkshire, which included the construction of indoor ballistic fire-ranges. This initial experience kick-started my journey in the construction industry. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, each with its own intricate design details. These projects have included a 35-storey residential tower, commercial factories spanning over 120 acres, secondary schools, and petrol filling stations located within residential developments. My work has taken me to various locations across the UK, and I’ve also gained valuable overseas experience in Qatar.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

In my role as Associate Director, I’m responsible for overseeing part of the project delivery function within Circle, including Construction Contracts from RIBA Stage 3 through to RIBA Stage 6. This involves managing of a diverse number of individuals through varied communication methods, to align Consultants/Contractors in obtaining the Client’s brief. I set key project deliverables, manage project risks, and address critical issues to facilitate the success of collaborative schemes. I particularly enjoy my role during significant project milestones, such as successfully concluding tendering negotiations between a contractor and client, as well as issuing ‘Practical Completion’ certificates at the conclusion of construction projects.

Describe your experiences and growth at Circle?

I began my role as a Project Manager in 2019 at Circle. During my time here, I achieved my Civil Engineering Chartership with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) in 2020. The invaluable support and technical knowledge shared by my colleagues during Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions played a crucial role in helping me attain my Chartership and advance into the role of Senior Project Manager.

What is your favourite project?

My favourite project at Circle has been ‘The Fox.’ It was a significant opportunity for me to lead a construction project from cradle to grave. While the project presented its fair share of challenges, including a suspension due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it provided me with the chance to build relationships with both the client and contractor teams, which will last a lifetime. The project’s intricate design required me to utilise my on-site experience, which was instrumental in successfully delivering a traditional reinforced concrete frame building, hidden behind a locally listed historic pub and included facilities catered to both private and affordable housing residents. The project’s complexity and the teamwork involved made it a particularly rewarding experience.

What brings you joy outside of work?

I’m a keen sportsman, even though I might not excel in any particular sport, I enjoy the competitive element and camaraderie that sporting competition brings. In my free time, I like to use my holidays as an opportunity to explore countries all over the globe. The rest of my time is spent on my own construction project at my home in South London.

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.

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.