Water Lane

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.

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.

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!