Mountbatten House

Aled Williams, MEng 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.

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.

Toby Inskip

Project Manager

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

I have over 6 years of experience working as a client-side project manager across various sectors, including super prime residential, commercial, and hospitality. My experience spans from master planning to overseeing works on-site and managing defects.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

In my current role, I handle contractor and professional team procurement, monitor cashflows and fees, and take on the responsibility of managing key stakeholder relationships. I’m known for my eye for detail and strong team management skills. I swiftly identify issues and bring enthusiasm to create a robust and enjoyable environment for each project to build upon. I carry out the role of both Project Management and Employer’s Agent on my live projects. I’ve helped clients overcome challenging planning issues and recently assisted in agreeing Licence to Alters with Grosvenor and Portman Estate.

I’m known for my eye for detail and strong team management skills. I swiftly identify issues and bring enthusiasm to create a robust and enjoyable environment for each project to build upon.

Describe your experiences and growth at Circle?

I joined Circle in 2022 as a Project Manager. Since joining, I’ve shown enthusiasm for learning and a passion for construction. I regularly join Circle’s Clerk of Works team to progress my site knowledge and technical understanding. I’ve been an integral part of the Mountbatten House development, where I managed the procurement of the main contractor and now oversee the site works at Mountbatten House. I’m enrolled in the Circle APC Chartership programme and aim to become MRICS by Spring 2024.

What is your favourite project?

My favourite project is Mountbatten House, a 240,000 sq ft Grade II Listed office refurbishment which is set to become one of the most iconic buildings in Basingstoke. The client values sustainability, and it’s been fantastic to work on a project that brings this amazing building back to life with a new sustainable lease of life.

What brings you joy outside of work?

I enjoy searching for hidden restaurants and discovering amazing places to eat and drink around London. Meeting passionate and talented chef’s has inspired by love for home cooking; I’m happiest infront of barbecue laughing with my family and friends. Golf is another hobby I enjoy; I played off a handicap of 1 when I was 16, but now I prefer hacking it around with a couple of cheeky cold beverages. Additionally, I have a passion for DJ’ing and have played at clubs across the country during my time at university.

Dan Orban

Senior Clerk of Works

What expertise and background do you bring to the table?

I started my career based on site to operational side, initially providing general labour, progressing through the various site levels eventually achieving the position of Site Manager on large new build residential projects across London. During my time as a Site Manager, I have delivered large scale residential projects for Tier 1 contractors across London being involved in majority of the construction stages and overlooking all trades from groundworks through to the finishing touches.

Can you outline the responsibilities of your role?

My role includes is to work across multiple projects raising quality standards and the expectations of contractors and sub-contractors of what is and isn’t acceptable. Also, demonstrating and making sure the works are in line with both design and specifications, and British Standards.

Describe your experiences and growth?

I started as a Clerk of Works in 2020 and I progressed in this time by developing new competences being registered with the most prestigious institution within the quality control sector and the reputation spans far and wide, The Institute of Clerk of Works and Construction Inspectorate of Great Britain (ICWCI), enrolled onto the Clerk of Works course with Wolverhampton University.

What is your favourite project?

My favourite project is One Maidenhead, a build to rent development in Maidenhead consisting of 429 apartments, ground floor shops and restaurants over four buildings. Having been involved from the very start, overseeing quality and compliance through the project on daily and weekly site visits to undertake inspections and rise observations concerning Health, Safety & Welfare, Temporary Works, Quality, Environmental or Design and reporting to the Employer’s Agent. Also, being involved in façade inspections from the first fix up to final inspection prior mast climber dismantle.

What brings you joy outside of work?

As an active social individual, I enjoy going to gym, running and play football on weekly basis because these sports keep me in shape, challenge my physical limits and strengthen my team work skills as I use to do in early days when I played rugby for my local team. Also, in my spare time I enjoy to socialising and cooking delicious dishes for family and friends. Another passion which relaxes me is photography and videography, sometimes creating memorable pictures and videos for those around me.

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.