UK’s top construction managers recognised at CIOB Awards

[ON 28 SEPTEMBER the annual Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) Awards were held at London’s Grosvenor Hotel, celebrating the achievements of construction leaders from across the UK. Around 600 guests gathered to celebrate the awards, which were presented to more than 20 individuals and organisations responsible for some of the most challenging construction projects – ranging from new schools and leisure centres to offices and homes.

For the first time awards were also given specifically for sustainability, together with equality, diversity and inclusion, reflecting two of the biggest challenges currently faced by the construction industry.

The most coveted award of the night, Construction Manager of the Year, was presented to Joe O’Connell for his work on Exeter’s St Sidwell’s Point Leisure Centre.

Joe was chosen following his management of the £44m project, which opened in April this year and was the first ultra-low carbon leisure centre in the UK. Its design means its energy costs are around 70% less than a more traditional leisure centre. The CIOB judges singled out Joe for his management of the large-scale project in a challenging city centre location.

He, and all the other winners, were presented with their awards by TV and radio presenter Anita Rani, pictured with Joe (centre) showing off his award and CIOB president Michael Yam.

Joe said: “It’s a privilege to have been shortlisted for the award – let alone winning it – and it’s all very unexpected. To have your professionalism recognised by other professionals from within your industry means a great deal and an award from CIOB is something to be really proud of.”

The CIOB Awards, formerly the Construction Manager of the Year Awards, first started in 1978 and celebrate the individuals behind construction projects of all sizes including residential buildings as well as those used for education, business, healthcare and leisure. They have provided a springboard for many careers, with winners having gone on to work on iconic landmarks such as Canary Wharf and The Shard.

CIOB CEO Caroline Gumble commented: “The range of talent on display at this year’s awards has been truly inspirational and it’s wonderful to see so many examples of leadership and a focus on delivering a high-quality built environment. Our congratulations go to all our winners, who are making a difference to others within the built environment sector and the communities they build for.” q 12 www.constructionnational.co.uk