Name: Benjamin Wood
Job title: Senior cost manager at Linesight
What I do: I manage costs and schedules for major life sciences construction projects.
Why I got into the construction industry: I wanted to work in a collaborative environment where I could make use of my technical skills from other sectors and industries and take on new challenges. Linesight has definitely given me that opportunity – it’s fantastic to be part of a team that really supports each other and is working hard to reach the same goal.
How I did it: After almost seven years enjoyable years in the Royal Marines, I felt that it was time for me to start looking for something else. Not long after I had reached that decision, I came across an M&E consultant traineeship. With the skills I had gained during my time in the Marines, I believed this would be a good fit for me, so I applied and then I spent the next four years with my head down and successfully completed the traineeship. My next step was to look for a company where I would really be able to progress in my career. Some of my former colleagues had recently moved to Linesight, and they all spoke highly of the company, so I did some research and thought it could be a really good fit.
My first proper job: I completed a heating and plumbing apprenticeship prior to joining the Royal Marines, which gave me a good understanding of how to have a systems-wide view of situations. This helped lay the groundwork for my move to this industry and has also enhanced my career within Linesight.
My first big break: Being accepted into the trainee programme with a major consultant. These kinds of apprenticeships can be a game changer for those looking to transition into property and construction, not only from other sectors but also from completely different industries.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: I think it would be transitioning from a military environment to a civilian/corporate environment. I had to adapt quickly to the new format and find ways to navigate the challenge of balancing client needs with those of contractors. I think my experience diffusing conflict and dealing with high pressure situations in a calm and collected way really helped there.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: Being able to establish trust with my clients and colleagues. I’m constantly working with people from diverse backgrounds, and I take the time to understand and get to know my clients and their priorities. This really helps me to achieve the best outcomes for them and LInesight.
The biggest misconception people have about the construction industry: That there is a lot of work onsite in a dirty, dusty environment in a very male-dominated industry. Working at Linesight, you do have the opportunity to work onsite but I find the majority of my time is spent in a comfortable, inclusive, friendly office.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: Our day to day can be incredibly busy, and as a result it can be challenging to find the time to mentor more junior team members. While self-development was part of my journey, not everyone would have the confidence and initiative to understand what is needed in order to succeed. It’s important for me to ensure that I give enough time to help nurture and develop my junior colleagues, in keeping with Linesight’s values.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: Learning from people from different backgrounds has been a real benefit to my career so far. I believe that increased diversity can improve all aspects of our working experience, especially when it comes to understanding different cultures while working with clients abroad.
Why I’m so passionate about ESG: ESG is a fundamental part of the projects I work on. Building sustainability into life science projects has a positive knock-on effect for all involved and can even help to drive innovation in the sector.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time, career-wise: I would like to have achieved a chartered surveyor status within the RICS.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: It would have to be Mike Tyson, based on my love of the sport of boxing.
What I do in my downtime: I maintain a healthy, active lifestyle and socialise with family and friends.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: I always wanted to be a fighter pilot.
My advice for someone just starting out: Take a look at the training programmes available, and speak to anyone you can about their journey into the industry. There’ll be a lot to learn from them.
My motto/mantra: You only get out, what you put in.
