Explore every episode of the podcast Own The Build

In this Own the Build Question Time episode, Paul is joined once again by Chris Barber, COO and Co-Founder of C-Link, to tackle four real-world commercial dilemmas faced by Quantity Surveyors and Commercial Managers.

First up: would you pay £100,000 more for a subcontractor you already know and trust?

Paul and Chris debate the value of certainty, relationships and proven performance against the very real pressure to protect project margin. They explore how work references, site visits, supply chain strategy and the wider needs of the business should influence a tender recommendation.

The conversation also explores:

• how much a proven subcontractor relationship is actually worth;
• whether introducing a new supplier can create value beyond the immediate £100k saving;
• the biggest positive and negative margin swings Paul and Chris experienced during their QS careers;
• how a £1.3m value engineering opportunity transformed the commercial position on one of Paul's projects;
• why mistakes made during the design phase can have enormous commercial consequences;
• why bad news and potential variations should be communicated as early as possible;
• whether a QS expecting a project to finish at 10% margin should report the gain when only 6% can currently be substantiated; and
• how to balance commercial prudence with giving senior leadership an accurate view of where profit really sits within the business.

The final question leads to an important discussion about CVRs: rather than hiding potential upside or releasing it all too early, can commercial teams identify the key milestones that allow margin to be progressively unlocked as project risk reduces?

From subcontractor selection and supply chain relationships to CVRs, margin and lessons learned, this is a practical Question Time episode about something every commercial professional has to develop:

making good commercial decisions when the answer isn't black and white.

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This episode is sponsored by:

• clearnorth — The QS People: https://www.clearnorth.co.uk/
•  CLIC — The Commercial Leadership Collective: https://www.the-clic.co.uk/

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📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s eBooks Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In the ninth episode of the Own the Build Leadership Series, Paul is joined by Jonathan Solly, Cost Management Partner at Ridge, to explore the consultancy-side journey from Assistant QS to Partner — and what it takes to make the transition from being a technically strong QS to becoming a business leader. 

Jon started his career in accountancy before moving into construction as an M&E subcontractor QS. After joining Ridge as an Assistant QS, he progressed through the business over the following decade, ultimately becoming Partner and taking responsibility for a 13-person cost management team with a turnover of circa £2m.

The conversation explores:

•  why being a technically excellent QS will only take your career so far; 
•  the point at which ambitious QSs need to start thinking about the business, not just their projects; 
•  why learning to delegate client relationships was one of Jon's biggest leadership breakthroughs; 
•  the challenge of stepping into leadership as a relatively young Partner and learning to give respectful challenge; 
•  how Jon approaches recruitment, culture and developing the next generation of QSs; 
•  why good succession planning ultimately means making yourself less essential; and 
•  the career opportunities available in consultancy for contractor QSs looking for greater variety and a different work-life balance. 

Jon also explains why aspiring leaders should stop asking only, "What should I be doing?" and start asking, "What could I be doing?"

It captures one of the strongest themes to emerge throughout the Leadership Series: progressing into senior leadership requires more than being brilliant at your day job. At some point, you have to shift from being a great technician to creating value for the wider business.

A practical conversation for Quantity Surveyors, Associates and aspiring Partners — as well as contractor QSs curious about what a career on the consultancy side could look like.

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📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Matt Mackey, Director at Contollo, who has recently returned to UK construction after spending 16 years working in Australia.

Having left the UK during the aftermath of the financial crisis, Matt went on to build and lead cost and commercial management teams in Australia before returning to Manchester in 2026.

So, after 16 years away, what does someone coming back into UK construction notice?

The conversation explores:

• why many of the problems Matt remembers from 2010 are still being discussed today;
• the major differences between the role of a QS in the UK and Australia;
• why procurement continues to drive a race to the bottom despite decades of conversations about collaboration and value;
• whether QSs and client-side advisors have inadvertently contributed to the industry's obsession with lowest price;
• why main contractors can't genuinely change their relationship with the supply chain until risk and behaviours change at client level;
• how heavily amended contracts can undermine collaborative behaviours before a project has even started;
• why early contractor involvement only works when collaboration continues beyond the preconstruction stage;
• what the industry could learn from the way projects operated during COVID, when clients and contractors were forced to solve problems together; and
• why construction's short-term, project-by-project mentality continues to hold back MMC, innovation and genuine industry improvement.

Matt also compares the two markets directly: Australia's greater speed and use of less-amended standard contracts versus the UK's stronger structure, processes and definition of roles.

Ultimately, the conversation asks a bigger question.

After Latham, Egan and decades of discussion about collaboration, procurement and productivity, why are we still trying to solve so many of the same problems?

A thought-provoking conversation for Quantity Surveyors, Commercial Directors, contractors and client-side professionals interested in how we create a more sustainable construction industry.

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📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by James Pearson, a freelance Quantity Surveyor with nearly 20 years' experience across UK construction, to explore the commercial habits that keep projects under control — and how AI is beginning to change the way QSs work.

James shares his approach to managing projects through a structured commercial calendar, explaining why reporting what happened last month isn't the same as actively managing what happens next.

The conversation explores:

• why projects rarely lose commercial control overnight — and the small disciplines that begin to disappear first;
• how James structures his month around valuations, forecasting, CVRs, variations and commercial administration;
• why programme delays and constant firefighting quickly destroy good commercial management;
• how regular progress meetings and strong relationships help identify risk before it becomes a commercial problem;
• how James is already using AI to interrogate contracts, test claims and strengthen commercial arguments; and
• why QSs should use AI as an experienced colleague or consultant — rather than asking it to do their job for them.

James also shares how AI helped him develop the contractual argument behind a multimillion-pound dispute, before offering a warning to QSs simply outsourcing their thinking to the technology.

His view is simple:

use AI to make yourself a better QS — don't use it to replace the skills that make you valuable in the first place.

A practical conversation for Quantity Surveyors and Commercial Managers looking to improve their commercial discipline while understanding how AI can become part of their everyday toolkit.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Kevin Horner, Procurement Operations Leader at Laing O'Rourke, Board Director at SSIP, and a member of several Build UK working groups, for an in-depth look at what procurement really looks like inside one of the UK's largest contractors. 

While procurement is often viewed as simply "buying subcontractors", Kevin reveals that modern Tier 1 procurement is far more strategic—balancing supply chain capability, governance, compliance, commercial risk and long-term relationships to deliver better project outcomes.

The conversation explores:

•  why procurement and quantity surveying play different—but equally critical—roles in project delivery; 
•  how early contractor and early supply chain involvement through PCSAs reduces risk and improves design certainty; 
•  why quality, compliance and capability should take priority over lowest price; 
•  the hidden complexity of managing procurement across hundreds of suppliers, multiple regions and major infrastructure projects; and 
•  how digitisation, AI and better data could transform procurement over the next decade. 

Paul and Kevin also discuss Laing O'Rourke's work on contract simplification, the importance of building long-term strategic relationships with the supply chain, and why the industry must stop passing down unmanaged risk if it wants to improve productivity and reduce insolvencies.

The episode closes with a powerful message:

great procurement isn't about buying cheaper—it's about building stronger supply chains, better projects and a more sustainable construction industry.

A fascinating conversation for Quantity Surveyors, Procurement Professionals, Commercial Directors and anyone looking to understand how leading contractors are rethinking procurement in 2026.

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📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this Own the Build Question Time episode, Paul is joined by Chris Barber, COO and Co-Founder of C-Link, to answer listener questions on the realities of working commercially in construction — including the mistakes, difficult meetings and relationships that shape you as a QS. 

This episode gets particularly candid, with Paul and Chris looking back on their own careers and sharing some of the lessons they learned the hard way.

The conversation explores:

•  the toughest meetings they experienced as young QSs and why preparation matters; 
•  their biggest commercial mistakes and what they changed as a result; 
•  when new technology and ERP systems can actually make commercial teams less efficient rather than more efficient; 
•  why understanding the workflow before implementing technology is critical; 
•  the importance of keeping your emotions — and your poker face — under control during negotiations; and 
•  what separates the best commercial counterparts from the people you never want to work with again. 

Paul and Chris also discuss why fairness and pragmatism in variation management can completely change the dynamic between main contractors, subcontractors and consultants.

The underlying message is simple:

some of the most valuable lessons in commercial management come from getting things wrong, learning quickly and making sure you don't make the same mistake twice.

A candid and practical Question Time episode for QSs and commercial professionals at every stage of their careers.

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📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In the eighth episode of the Own the Build Leadership Series, Paul is joined by David Taylor, former Group Commercial Director at Costain, where he spent over a decade on the Executive Board helping lead one of the UK's largest infrastructure contractors. 

From starting his career as a trainee estimator at Taylor Woodrow to leading complex PFI programmes, resolving some of the industry's most challenging projects, and ultimately becoming Group Commercial Director, David shares the experiences, decisions and leadership principles that shaped a remarkable 43-year career.

The conversation explores:

•  why putting your hand up for difficult projects is often the biggest accelerator of a career; 
•  how becoming known as a problem solver opened doors throughout his leadership journey; 
•  why preparation, stakeholder management and strategic thinking separate good commercial professionals from great leaders; 
•  how to build influence across clients, supply chains and executive teams; and 
•  why succession planning is one of the most important responsibilities of any leader. 

David also reflects on leading through major industry change, his philosophy of "commercial foresight", and the importance of leaving organisations stronger than you found them—including the carefully planned succession that saw him hand over the Group Commercial Director role before retiring.

The episode closes with a powerful message:

don't chase job titles—chase opportunities to solve difficult problems, earn trust and create value. The leadership opportunities will follow.

A fascinating conversation for QSs, Commercial Managers, Commercial Directors and anyone with ambitions of leading at the very highest level in construction.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Marc Preston —Quantity Surveyor, dispute resolution specialist, registered counsellor and CEO of New Foundation Counselling—to discuss one of the construction industry's biggest challenges:

Why are we still losing so many people to poor mental health?

Drawing on decades of experience across Tier 1 contracting, development, dispute resolution and counselling, Mark shares a unique perspective on the commercial and cultural changes needed to make construction a healthier place to work.

The conversation explores:

•  why mental health should be treated with the same importance as physical health; 
•  how poor payment practices, inappropriate risk transfer and adversarial procurement contribute to unnecessary stress across the supply chain; 
•  why collaboration must become more than a contractual buzzword; 
•  the practical changes contractors can make—from welfare facilities to better leadership—to improve wellbeing on site; and 
•  why Mark believes the industry needs structural change, not just greater awareness. 

Paul and Mark also debate whether contracts should play a bigger role in driving better behaviours, the commercial case for investing in mental health, and why improving working environments isn't just the right thing to do—it's good business.

The episode closes with a simple message:

if we want better projects, we need to build a better industry for the people delivering them.

A thought-provoking conversation for QSs, Commercial Managers, Project Directors and construction leaders who believe commercial success and looking after people should go hand in hand.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Nitesh Rupalia, Technical Project Manager at Taylor Wimpey South Wales, for a fascinating discussion on one of the most overlooked relationships in construction:

The link between commercial, technical and operational teams.

Drawing on experience across developers, architects, Tier 1 contractors and national housebuilders, Nitesh shares why projects perform best when design managers, QSs and site teams stop operating in silos and start working as a single project team.

The conversation explores:

•  why the traditional separation between design, commercial and operations creates unnecessary risk; 
•  how involving specialist subcontractors earlier leads to better design, greater cost certainty and fewer variations; 
•  the impact of the Building Safety Act on procurement, design development and contractor collaboration; 
•  why design managers should be commercially focused—not just technically focused; and 
•  how aligning project incentives around time, cost and quality leads to better outcomes for everyone. 

Paul and Nitesh also discuss the importance of attending each other's meetings, sharing responsibility for decisions, and creating an audit trail that makes final accounts far less contentious.

The episode closes with a powerful reminder:

the most successful construction projects aren't delivered by brilliant departments—they're delivered by brilliant project teams.

A practical and thought-provoking conversation for QSs, Design Managers, Project Managers and Commercial Directors looking to improve collaboration, reduce risk and deliver better projects.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this special Leadership Series Question Time episode, Paul is joined once again by Chris Barber, Co-Founder and COO of C-Link, to answer questions submitted by listeners following recent Leadership Series interviews. 

Drawing on themes from conversations with Prabhat Shikotra, Genna Rourke, Anil Rai and other senior commercial leaders, Paul and Chris explore how commercial professionals can apply those lessons in the real world.

The discussion explores:

•  how leaders can find time to improve the business instead of constantly firefighting; 
•  why delegation is one of the biggest mindset shifts required to move into leadership; 
•  how to balance protecting commercial margins while maintaining strong relationships; 
•  why solving difficult problems is often the fastest route to career progression; and 
•  the importance of taking ownership before waiting for a promotion. 

Paul and Chris also share practical advice on analysing where your time is spent, building trust with clients and supply chains, creating high-performing teams, and why leadership is ultimately about making the business better—not simply managing projects.

The message is clear:

the best commercial leaders don't wait for more authority—they create more value.

A practical episode for Quantity Surveyors, Commercial Managers and aspiring Commercial Directors looking to accelerate their careers and become more effective leaders.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In the seventh episode of the Own the Build Leadership Series, Paul is joined by Genna Rourke, former Commercial Director at Costain and now Industry Engagement Director at Built Intelligence, to explore an unconventional route into commercial leadership and the lessons she learned along the way.

After falling into quantity surveying by chance, Jenna built her career through curiosity, continuous learning and a willingness to take on problems others avoided. From trainee QS to Commercial Director, she reflects on the relationships, mentors and mindset shifts that shaped her leadership journey.

The conversation explores:

• why trust and relationships are the foundation of great commercial leadership;
• the importance of delegation and why "what got you here won't get you there";
• how succession planning starts with developing the people around you;
• why collaboration consistently delivers better commercial outcomes than hierarchy; and
• the role of mentoring, feedback and continuous professional development in building high-performing commercial teams.

Jenna also shares her thoughts on the evolving culture of construction, the importance of embracing different perspectives across generations, and why today's leaders should focus less on having all the answers and more on creating environments where their teams can thrive.

The episode closes with a simple but powerful message:

great commercial leaders don't create followers—they create future leaders.

A practical and refreshingly honest conversation for QSs, Commercial Managers and aspiring Commercial Directors looking to build stronger teams, earn trust and lead with confidence.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Mark Holden-Smith, Chartered Quantity Surveyor, Registered Adjudicator, Registered Arbitrator and Director of Holden Smith Consultancy, for a deep dive into one of construction's most misunderstood topics:

Why do so many final accounts end in dispute?

Having progressed from labourer and plasterer to Managing Director before specialising in claims, dispute resolution and adjudication, Mark brings a unique perspective from every corner of the industry.

The conversation explores why difficult final accounts are rarely caused by the final account itself. Instead, the root cause is often found months or even years earlier — in misunderstood contract terms, ambiguous documentation, and a failure to properly administer the contract from day one.

Paul and Mark discuss:

•  why most disputes originate during procurement and contract formation; 
•  the importance of understanding what you've actually signed up to; 
•  why "being contractual" shouldn't be viewed as a negative; 
•  the delicate balance between practising the contract and maintaining relationships; 
•  how leverage is created through strong contractual positioning; and 
•  the habits that separate commercial professionals who resolve disputes from those who create them. 

The discussion also challenges common industry behaviours, including the tendency to leave difficult issues unresolved until project closeout — often turning manageable disagreements into major disputes.

The message is clear:

the best way to resolve a difficult final account is to stop it becoming a difficult final account in the first place.

A practical and insightful conversation for QSs, Commercial Managers, Commercial Directors and anyone responsible for protecting commercial outcomes on construction projects.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Bernie Keens, freelance Commercial Manager and Managing QS, to explore a growing trend in the construction industry:

Why are experienced QSs choosing freelance over the traditional climb to Commercial Director?

Having spent 13 years progressing from Junior QS to Commercial Manager within the same contractor, Bernie recently made the move into freelance commercial management. The conversation explores what drove that decision, what he's learned so far, and whether the industry's traditional career ladder still appeals to experienced commercial professionals.

Paul and Bernie discuss:

•  the realities of moving from QS to people manager and commercial leader; 
•  why mentorship and continuous learning remain critical throughout your career; 
•  the challenge of retaining ambitious Senior QSs in a competitive market; 
•  why some of the industry's best commercial professionals don't actually want management roles; and 
•  how flexibility, autonomy and lifestyle are changing career decisions for a new generation of QSs. 

The discussion also tackles a broader industry challenge: how contractors attract and retain the commercial talent needed to become the next generation of leadership.

The message is clear:

career success isn't always about the next job title — it's about finding the role, lifestyle and opportunities that are right for you.

A thoughtful conversation for QSs, Commercial Managers and business leaders looking to understand how career aspirations in construction are evolving.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this Own the Build Question Time episode, Paul is joined once again by Chris Barber, COO and Co-Founder of C-Link, to tackle two candid listener questions about career progression, mentorship and the realities of building a successful quantity surveying career. 

The first question comes from a construction professional with over 15 years of site experience who is struggling to transition into quantity surveying despite completing an MSc and making hundreds of applications. Paul and Chris explore whether the industry's widely discussed QS shortage really applies to trainees, why site experience is often undervalued, and what practical steps people can take to break into commercial roles.

The second question comes from an experienced Senior QS who moved companies for better pay and progression, only to find themselves without the mentors and support network they previously relied on. The discussion focuses on the importance of mentorship at every stage of your career, taking ownership of your development, and how to approach senior leaders when you need more guidance.

The conversation covers:

•  whether construction genuinely invests in developing new QS talent; 
•  the value of operational and site experience in commercial roles; 
•  why mentorship never stops being important; 
•  how to take control of your own career progression; and 
•  the difficult but necessary conversations that often unlock growth. 

The message throughout is simple:

the best careers are rarely built by waiting for opportunities — they're built by actively creating them.

A thoughtful episode for aspiring QSs, experienced commercial professionals, and anyone looking to take the next step in their career.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In the sixth episode of the Own the Build Leadership Series, Paul is joined by Prabhat Shikotra, Strategy Lead at BAM UK & Ireland, to explore a very different path into senior leadership — and why the future of construction will belong to businesses that think long term. 

Starting his career in architecture before moving into construction through digital planning and innovation, Prabhat shares how curiosity, creativity and consistently putting his hand up for difficult challenges shaped his progression into one of the UK’s largest contractors.

The conversation explores:

•  why construction struggles to attract young talent despite the impact it has on society; 
•  the importance of working on the business, not just in the business; 
•  how BAM shifted from project-by-project thinking to a disciplined long-term strategy focused on margin, selectivity and client partnerships; 
•  why culture and communication matter more than PowerPoint strategies; and 
•  how technology, AI and workforce planning will shape the next decade of construction leadership. 

Prabhat also reflects on the habits that separate future leaders from the rest — including visibility, consistency, curiosity and taking ownership when opportunities arise.

The episode closes on a powerful leadership message:
 don’t chase titles — chase difficult challenges, build trust, and let leadership emerge organically.

A fascinating conversation for QSs, commercial professionals and future leaders looking to understand how strategic thinking, innovation and long-term relationships are reshaping construction in 2026 and beyond.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined once again by Dave Stitt, leadership coach and former construction director, for a deep and thought-provoking conversation about one of the most misunderstood skills in construction leadership:

Influence.

Drawing on 50 years in the industry and decades coaching senior leaders across major contractors and infrastructure projects, Dave introduces the core ideas behind his upcoming book, Advanced Influencing for Leaders.

The conversation explores why technical competence alone is not enough to lead effectively — and why the best leaders influence through character, beliefs, values and the way they show up every day.

Paul and Dave discuss:

•  why leadership in construction is still largely learned “by accident”; 
•  the hidden beliefs that shape how leaders behave under pressure; 
•  how micromanagement, stress and burnout often stem from limiting belief systems; 
•  the difference between management and genuine leadership influence; and 
•  why inspiration, trust and self-awareness are critical to building high-performing teams. 

The episode also introduces Dave’s powerful “Be, Do, Have” framework — exploring how who you are as a person ultimately shapes your actions, your influence and your long-term results.

The message is clear:
great leadership is not just about what you know — it’s about who you are when people experience you.

A fascinating episode for QSs, Commercial Directors and aspiring leaders looking to better understand themselves, influence people more effectively, and lead with greater clarity and purpose.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Matthew Williams, Senior Consultant at Clear North, for a practical and timely discussion about one of the construction industry’s biggest hidden challenges:

How do contractors attract and retain commercial talent when the QS shortage is getting worse — and freelance working is rapidly evolving?

Matt works exclusively with quantity surveyors across the freelance market and brings a front-line perspective on what commercial directors, contractors and QSs need to understand about the changing landscape.

The conversation explores:

•  why there are now over 42,000 QS job adverts live in the UK market; 
•  how the industry created a shortage of experienced Senior QSs; 
•  why many contractors still misunderstand IR35 and the freelance market; 
•  the recent tax and liability changes that could reshape contractor hiring strategies; and 
•  why more experienced QSs are choosing freelance work over traditional career paths. 

Paul and Matt also discuss the wider implications for the industry — from burnout and retention issues to the growing tension between short-term project pressures and long-term talent development.

The episode closes with a clear message:
 contractors that adapt fastest to flexible commercial resourcing will gain access to the strongest talent in the market.

A practical, honest discussion for Commercial Directors, QSs and business leaders trying to navigate the reality of construction’s commercial talent crisis in 2026.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this Own the Build Question Time episode, Paul is joined once again by Chris Barber, COO and Co-Founder of C-Link, to answer listener questions sparked by the recent Leadership Series featuring some of the UK construction industry’s leading Commercial Directors. 

The conversation explores the consistent themes emerging from those leadership interviews — and what they reveal about how strong commercial leaders are actually built.

Paul and Chris discuss:

•  why becoming a “gun QS” still matters before stepping into leadership; 
•  the importance of exposure, reps and difficult projects early in your career; 
•  how mentors and advocates often shape progression more than qualifications; 
•  why good commercial leaders create clear frameworks and guardrails for their teams; and 
•  how culture, payment practices and communication directly impact supply chain relationships. 

The episode also tackles:

•  simplifying contract administration at project level; 
•  how to reduce adversarial behaviours between contractors and subcontractors; and 
•  managing relationships on projects where commercial pressure is intense. 

The underlying message is clear:
great commercial leadership is built through consistency, ownership, empathy and experience under pressure.

A practical and honest conversation for QSs, Commercial Managers and aspiring leaders looking to accelerate their development and build stronger teams.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Alex Kozikowska, solicitor at Vinci, to explore a fast-growing but often misunderstood area of construction:

Why data centre projects break traditional contract thinking.

With experience across contractors, consultants and in-house legal teams, Alex brings a practical perspective on how these highly complex, MEP-driven projects are exposing the limitations of standard forms like JCT, NEC and even FIDIC.

The conversation unpacks what actually makes data centres different:

•  why they are engineering-led, not building-led, with MEP dominating the scope; 
•  how design never truly stops evolving, driven by fast-moving technology; 
•  the impact of global procurement on programme, risk and delivery; and 
•  why traditional assumptions around fixed scope, price and responsibility simply don’t hold. 

Paul and Alex also explore the consequences of getting it wrong — from endless variations and programme delays to misallocated risk that no party can realistically control.

Most importantly, the episode looks forward:

•  how contracts must adapt to allow for design evolution and uncertainty; 
•  why commissioning should sit at the centre of contract structure; and 
•  the growing need for new, fit-for-purpose contract models tailored to data centre delivery. 

The message is clear:
 data centres aren’t just bigger projects — they’re fundamentally different projects, and the contracts need to catch up.

A timely and insightful episode for QSs, Commercial Directors and anyone involved in complex, high-value infrastructure — particularly as demand for data centres continues to accelerate globally.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In the fifth episode of the Own the Build Leadership Series, Paul is joined by Justin Fahy, Managing Director at Structure Tone UK, to explore the journey from QS to leading a £400m+ fit-out business. 

Justin’s career is a strong example of steady progression built on experience, longevity and advocacy — rising through the ranks from trainee surveyor to Commercial Director, before stepping into Managing Director.

The conversation focuses on what effective leadership really looks like at scale, including:

•  why advocacy and trust are critical to career progression; 
•  the value of staying in a business long enough to earn opportunity, rather than moving for short-term gain; 
•  how taking on difficult projects and responsibility early builds long-term capability; 
•  the shift from commercial leadership to full business leadership, including operations, people and risk; and 
•  why people management becomes the primary role at senior level. 

Justin also shares how Structure Tone has grown from £90m to £400m+ by focusing on simple but powerful principles — particularly fair risk management and paying the supply chain on time.

The episode closes with a clear message for aspiring leaders:
 work hard, stay consistent, build trust, and be a good person — the rest follows.

A grounded, experience-led conversation for QSs and commercial professionals aiming to step into senior leadership — and for those already there looking to sense-check what strong leadership looks like in 2026.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by David Bebb, Partner at Fenwick Elliott, a construction lawyer with over 20 years’ experience working across the entire supply chain — from Canary Wharf and Network Rail to private practice. 

Together, they unpack one of the most frustrating — and costly — realities in construction:

Why do contract negotiations take so long, feel so combative, and often start in the wrong place?

David brings a rare perspective, having seen contracts from every angle, and explains how the industry repeatedly creates its own problems — through poorly coordinated documents, copy-and-paste specifications, and a lack of joined-up thinking between legal, commercial and design teams.

The conversation explores:

•  why most contracts are badly coordinated and full of contradictions; 
•  how starting with overly aggressive (“brutal”) clauses slows everything down; 
•  why the industry almost always ends up at the same deal anyway — just with wasted time and cost; 
•  how poor upfront drafting leads to letters of intent and commercial risk later; and 
•  why lawyers don’t argue clauses — they unpick the mess created between documents. 

More importantly, David outlines a better way forward:

•  start with a standard contract as a foundation, not something to overhaul; 
•  focus only on project-specific risks that actually matter; and 
•  replace endless email chains with direct conversations between decision-makers. 

The message is clear:
 contracts don’t need to be this painful — but the industry needs to change how it starts.

A sharp, insightful episode for Commercial Directors, QSs and anyone involved in procurement — and a timely reminder that better contracts lead to better projects.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this Own the Build Question Time episode, Paul is joined once again by Chris Barber, COO and Co-Founder of C-Link, to answer listener questions shaped by recent episodes and the Leadership Series. 

The conversation focuses on the real challenges QSs face as they progress through their careers — from transitioning into the role, to stepping up into leadership and delivering meaningful value on projects.

Paul and Chris cover:

•  how to transition from cost engineer to high-performing QS, shifting from analysis to commercial strategy; 
•  why procurement is where margin is won or lost — and how to think differently about it; 
•  how to move from constant firefighting to leadership, by addressing root causes and carving out time for strategic thinking; 
•  the step change from being a competent QS to an influential one, including time on site, understanding operations, and building relationships; and 
•  what “delivering value” actually looks like day-to-day, from turning data into insight to taking ownership of project outcomes. 

The episode also touches on wider industry themes, including contract simplification and the importance of collective action to drive meaningful change.

The underlying message is clear: the best QSs don’t just report what’s happening — they shape what happens next.

A practical, experience-led discussion for QSs at every stage of their career looking to step up, think differently, and lead with impact.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Ray Mellor-Pike, Managing Director at RMP Consulting, for a deep dive into one of construction’s most uncomfortable — and important — questions:

Are we allocating risk in a way that actually works? 

Drawing on experience across PQS, main contracting and subcontracting, Ray brings a rare, balanced perspective on how contracts are written, negotiated and — often — misunderstood.

The conversation focuses on the clauses that matter most:

•  why limitation of liability is the first and most critical line of defence for subcontractors; 
•  how fitness for purpose clauses can quietly introduce uninsurable, business-ending risk; 
•  the realities of time bars and condition precedents — and why clarity from day one matters; and 
•  how aggressive contract “step-down” creates complexity that many supply chains simply cannot manage. 

But beyond the clauses, the discussion tackles a bigger issue:

the industry’s default to overly aggressive contracts — and whether it’s actually counterproductive.

From “brutal vs middle vs soft” contract strategies to the unintended consequences of pushing risk down the chain, Paul and Ray explore whether current practices are protecting businesses — or slowly weakening the supply chain they depend on.

The conclusion is clear:
better dialogue, more balanced risk allocation, and stronger leadership at main contractor level are essential to building a sustainable construction industry.

A candid, practical conversation for Commercial Directors, QSs and anyone involved in negotiating contracts — and a timely reminder that what’s written on paper has real consequences on site.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In the fourth episode of the Own the Build Leadership Series, Paul is joined by Anil Rai, Commercial Director at M Group Water, a £900m+ business within the wider £2.5bn M Group. 

Anil’s journey offers a clear view of what it takes to build a leadership career in a large, complex Tier 1 environment — from early progression through commercial roles to leading at scale across a major infrastructure business.

The conversation focuses on what effective commercial leadership really looks like in 2026, including:

• building consistency and standards across large teams;
• creating alignment between commercial, operational and client objectives;
• leading with accountability while empowering others to take ownership; and
• navigating the scale and complexity that comes with major frameworks and long-term programmes.

Anil also reflects on the mindset shift required to step into a Commercial Director role — moving beyond individual performance to driving outcomes through people, structure and culture.

A practical and grounded discussion for QSs aiming for senior leadership — and for Commercial Directors operating in large, multi-project environments.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Pamela Cunningham, consultant at Growth & Performance Solutions, to unpack one of the biggest inefficiencies in construction:

The disconnect between main contractors and subcontractors during tendering. 

Having worked on both sides of the fence, Pamela brings a rare perspective — combining Tier 1 procurement experience with hands-on support for SMEs trying to win work in today’s market.

The conversation explores what each side consistently gets wrong.

From the main contractor side:

•  why poor tender packs and missing pricing documents create confusion and low engagement; 
•  how lack of feedback damages long-term supply chain relationships; 
•  and why simple actions like picking up the phone are still a competitive advantage. 

From the subcontractor side:

•  why many SMEs struggle to understand expectations and position themselves effectively; 
•  how resource, structure and strategy are becoming key differentiators; and 
•  what separates businesses that win work from those that don’t. 

The episode also tackles wider industry challenges — from supply chain underdevelopment and skills shortages to the unintended consequences of risk transfer and poor procurement practices.

The conclusion is clear:
better communication, better information and more intentional procurement processes would transform outcomes for both sides.

A practical, honest discussion for QSs, procurement professionals and subcontractors looking to improve how tenders are won, assessed and delivered.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this Own the Build Question Time episode, Paul is joined once again by Chris Barber, COO and Co-Founder of C-Link, to answer listener questions sparked by the recent Leadership Series with leading Commercial Directors across the UK construction industry. 

The discussion dives into some of the most practical leadership challenges facing QSs and commercial managers today — from when to step in and when to let team members learn through mistakes, to how difficult projects can become the most valuable learning experiences of a career.

Paul and Chris also tackle the uncomfortable topic of “hard-nosed” commercial behaviour in the industry and whether that mindset is still sustainable in modern construction leadership.

The episode closes with advice for the next generation of quantity surveyors — exploring why QS remains one of the most flexible and opportunity-rich careers in construction.

A thoughtful conversation about leadership, growth through adversity, and the mindset required to build stronger commercial teams.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Cian Brennan, founder of Quantum Contract Solutions and author of The Subcontractor’s Edge, for a candid conversation about one uncomfortable truth:

Most subcontractors don’t lose money on site — they lose it in the paperwork.

From four-hour “favours” that quietly erode margin, to delayed variations that become interest-free loans to main contractors, Paul and Kian unpack how small commercial decisions in Q1 of a project often come back to bite in Q4 — what Kian calls “squeaky bum time.”

They cover:

• why early variations must be submitted immediately (even the small ones);
• how cash flow timing is the real battleground in subcontracting;
• acceleration traps — and the critical question to ask before agreeing to speed up;
• why final accounts are the most dangerous phase of any project;
• how to “train” payment behaviour from day one; and
• the simple quarterly check-in strategy that turns one project into long-term framework work.

This is a practical, straight-talking episode for subcontractor QSs and commercial leaders who want to protect margin, control cash flow, and avoid painful disputes at closeout.

Because in construction, the difference between surviving and thriving often comes down to process, discipline, and thinking three quarters ahead.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In the third episode of the Own the Build Leadership Series, Paul is joined by Mark Walker, Managing Director of Seddon Housing Partnerships, an £85m social housing contractor operating across the North West and Midlands, part of the wider Seddon Group.

Mark’s journey is a powerful example of progression through ownership, resilience and long-term thinking. Starting in construction at 16 as a trainee QS, he worked his way through Assistant QS, QS, Senior QS, Managing QS and Commercial Director — before recently stepping into the Managing Director role.

This conversation explores what that journey really looked like.

Mark reflects on:

• putting his hand up for responsibility before he felt fully ready;
• how difficult projects build the resilience and judgment required for leadership;
• managing people older and more experienced than you;
• why bad jobs often create the best commercial leaders;
• the shift from project-focused thinking to full commercial oversight across estimating, surveying and supply chain;
• building collaborative two-stage tendering cultures that remove silos;
• why fairness with subcontractors is not weakness — it’s long-term strategy;
• the importance of transparency in reporting and contingency management; and
• why ownership and honesty are non-negotiable traits in high-performing commercial teams.

Mark also shares the mindset behind his move from Commercial Director to Managing Director — taking control of his own progression, succession planning his role beneath him, and making promotion a logical decision rather than a leap of faith.

The episode closes on a clear definition of great commercial leadership in 2026:
 Create clarity. Build trust. Develop people. And take ownership.

This is essential listening for QSs aspiring to senior leadership — and for existing directors who want to sense-check what strong, modern commercial leadership really looks like.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Kate Kennedy, Head of Legal Bids and Contract Transformation at Laing O’Rourke, to explore a bold idea: what if construction contracts were actually easy to understand?

Kate is leading an industry-first initiative to rethink how construction contracts are written, used and negotiated — starting with a simple premise: most people working on projects don’t understand the contracts they’re expected to deliver. 

Drawing on global research and collaboration with the not-for-profit World Commerce & Contracting, Laing O’Rourke is piloting a simplified subcontract designed to be clearer, shorter and far more practical for the people actually using it on site.

In this conversation, Paul and Kate explore:

• why construction contracts have become so complex over the last 40 years;
• the surprising statistic that 88% of business users struggle to understand their contracts;
• how redesigning contracts with diagrams, timelines and clearer structure can transform how projects operate;
• why simplification must come before the bigger challenge of fairer risk allocation; and
• how industry-wide collaboration between contractors could finally drive meaningful contract reform.

The goal isn’t just shorter contracts — it’s better outcomes for clients, contractors and supply chains alike.

A fascinating look at how one Tier 1 contractor is attempting to shift the industry towards simpler, more collaborative and outcome-focused contracting.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined once again by Simon Robinson, former main contractor Managing QS turned founder of Subport, to unpack a question that sits at the heart of construction delivery:

What actually makes a “good” subcontractor — and a “good” main contractor — from a commercial perspective?

Using results from a live poll of 100+ main contractor QSs, Paul and Simon explore the four traits most valued in subcontractors — including timely applications, real-time variation submissions, and the surprise winner: strong records and audit trail.

The discussion then flips perspective.

From the subcontractor side, what really matters?

•  Clear information at tender stage.
•  Fair and timely assessment of variations.
•  Cash flow discipline.
•  And, above all, communication that doesn’t label professionalism as “being contractual.”

The episode digs into:

• why poor variation timing destroys trust;
• how “payment on account” can quietly cripple subcontractor cash flow;
• the perception gap between managing one project vs managing twenty;
• why structured applications dramatically increase payment success; and
• how simple planning and empathy can transform commercial relationships.

The conclusion is refreshingly simple:
 Professionalism. Communication. Planning. Empathy.

If both sides understood each other’s pressures just a little better, many of the industry’s recurring disputes would disappear.

A practical, honest conversation for any QS operating on either side of the fence.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Davin Dillon, founder of Clearnorth — known in the industry as “the QS people” — to unpack one of the most important career questions in construction:

What does it really take to become a Commercial Director?

Drawing on insights from more than 40 in-depth interviews with Commercial Directors, Davin shares the patterns, pitfalls and turning points that consistently shape the journey from graduate QS to commercial leadership.

The conversation explores three critical phases of the journey:

1️⃣ The Early Years — Accidental Beginnings & the Power of Mentorship

Most Commercial Directors never set out to become QSs. They fell into it. What separated those who progressed was strong mentorship, deliberate development and early exposure to responsibility. The message is clear: don’t drift — take ownership of your career.

2️⃣ The Middle Years — The “Glass Ceiling” Moment

Many technically excellent QSs stall at senior level. Why? Because the next step isn’t about technical competence — it’s about leadership. Delegation, emotional intelligence and developing others become the defining skills. As Davin puts it:

3️⃣ The Final Step — Readiness, Not Recklessness

Chasing the title too early can damage credibility. Commercial Directorship requires strategic thinking, people leadership and self-awareness. The best leaders didn’t force the move — they built capability until someone else saw they were ready.

The episode also covers:

• why curiosity consistently stands out in future leaders;
• what Commercial Directors really look for in interviews;
• the difference between managing projects and leading teams;
• how to know when you’re genuinely ready for the step up; and
• why honesty, humility and cultural fit often matter more than technical brilliance.

If you’re a QS aiming for the top seat — or a Commercial Director developing the next generation — this is a grounded, experience-led conversation on building a credible, resilient leadership career in construction. You can find the ClearNorth Road to Commercial Director eBook here.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

Question Time is back for 2026! 🎉

In this episode, Paul is joined once again by regular co-host Chris Barber for a lively and candid discussion driven entirely by listener questions. Together, they cover a broad range of topics—from fantasy fixes for the construction industry, to spotting the next generation of commercial leaders, and the fine line between being “commercially astute” and just plain difficult.

Expect strong opinions, industry war stories, and the usual dose of friendly disagreement.

🧠 Topics Discussed:

• If you had a government mandate, how would you fix construction?
• Are we being held back by planning delays and building safety bottlenecks?
• The role of project bank accounts and retention reform in creating a fairer supply chain.
• How to spot future leaders in your commercial team — and how to retain them.
• The hidden career value of being on-site early in your QS career.
• What makes a QS commercially difficult versus commercially sharp?
• Industry phrases we’d happily never hear again (yes, “progressing well” made the list…).

📣 Listener shoutouts include:

• James (Commercial Manager)
• Darren (Surveying Director)
• Alexandra (Commercial Lead)
• Alan (Senior QS)

💬 Got a question for the next Question Time? Email Paul directly at paul@c-link.com

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In the second episode of the Own the Build Leadership Series, Paul is joined by Chris Hartley, former Commercial Director at McLaren Construction, a £1bn+ main contractor, and now a business change consultant and quantum expert.

Chris shares a deeply reflective account of his journey from early career QS to leading commercial teams of more than 50 people — and what that experience taught him about trust, detail, leadership and decision-making at scale.

Rather than a linear career story, this conversation focuses on the realities of commercial leadership: earning trust through technical credibility, knowing when to empower people to make mistakes, and why the best Commercial Directors never lose touch with the fundamentals of construction.

The discussion explores:

• why mastery of detail is the foundation of commercial authority;
• the transition from “doing” to leading — and why people skills become decisive;
• building high-performing commercial teams in large, complex organisations;
• how trust is given, earned and sometimes rebalanced;
• the role of information quality in better commercial decisions;
• freeing up QS time from administration to focus on commercial judgement; and
• what world-class commercial leadership looks like in 2026 and beyond.

Chris also reflects on succession planning, developing future leaders, and why rushing progression without grounding ultimately limits long-term impact.

This episode is a thoughtful, experience-led perspective on Commercial Directorship — essential listening for QSs with leadership ambitions and senior commercial professionals looking to sense-check what good really looks like at the top.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Brandon Silver, construction solicitor at Bexley Beaumont, for a deep, practical conversation on where construction contracts most often unravel — and how QSs and commercial leaders can protect themselves before problems escalate.

Brandon works daily on adjudications, payment disputes, termination claims and delay arguments, acting for contractors and subcontractors across the UK. In this episode, he shares real-world insights into the contractual mistakes he sees repeatedly — many of which are entirely avoidable.

The conversation covers:

• why most construction professionals fundamentally misunderstand their contracts — particularly JCT;
• how poor contract administration quietly destroys entitlement;
• termination under JCT: common law vs contractual termination, and why procedure matters more than intent;
• the five-step checklist every contractor should follow before issuing a termination notice;
• how easily an invalid termination can expose a party to loss of profit claims and significant financial risk;
• why smash-and-grab adjudications are rising — and how simple diary failures are costing businesses millions;
• concurrent delay explained properly: why true concurrency is rare, and why effect matters more than timing;
• the difference between relevant events and relevant matters — and why time does not always mean money; and
• record keeping in practice: what actually wins disputes, shortens arguments and protects cash flow.

Throughout the episode, Paul and Brandon connect legal theory with commercial reality, exploring how QSs can balance strong relationships with robust record keeping — and why being “commercial” without being contractual is one of the industry’s biggest risks.

This is essential listening for QSs, commercial managers and directors who want to reduce contractual exposure, protect entitlement and lead more confidently in an increasingly adversarial environment.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Amy Connor from Clear North — a QS-focused recruitment specialist who supports freelance quantity surveyors across the UK. Amy describes herself as “the QS agent”, helping QSs stay off job boards, understand the freelance market, and make informed, sustainable career decisions.

This is a practical, no-hype conversation about what freelance life really looks like in 2026.

Paul and Amy explore why more QSs are considering freelancing — from burnout and lack of control in permanent roles to the appeal of higher day rates, flexibility and autonomy. But they also unpack the realities behind the headline numbers, including the responsibilities, risks and trade-offs that come with running your own limited company.

Topics covered include:

• the true financial comparison between permanent salaries and freelance day rates;
• hidden costs such as holidays, pensions, insurance, tax, IR35 and business overheads;
• the level of experience required before going freelance — and why most successful freelancers are senior QSs;
• which sectors are thriving (infrastructure, utilities, data centres) and which are tightening;
• why sector versatility is becoming essential for freelance security;
• how IR35 has evolved from a blocker to a manageable reality;
• when freelancing works as a long-term career move — and when it doesn’t.

The conversation also looks at freelancing from a commercial leadership perspective, including:

• why more commercial directors are choosing to step back into freelance roles later in their careers;
• how contractors are increasingly using freelancers as a core part of delivery, not just a stop-gap;
• why hybrid teams of permanent and freelance QSs are becoming the norm; and
• how smart resourcing can reduce burnout while protecting delivery and margin.

This episode is essential listening for QSs considering freelancing in 2026 — and for commercial leaders who want to understand how the labour market is shifting and how to adapt their hiring strategy accordingly.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by David Longman, Managing QS at Rendesco, a £15m M&E specialist contractor, for a frank and wide-ranging conversation about quantity surveying from the subcontractor’s perspective — an angle that is often misunderstood higher up the contracting chain.

David’s career path is unusual and valuable: starting in main contracting, moving into PQS work, and ultimately landing in subcontracting, where he now leads and has helped grow the business from £4m to £15m in under three years. That breadth of experience allows him to speak candidly about the realities, pressures and blind spots that exist on both sides of the commercial fence.

The conversation covers:

• what it’s really like being a standalone QS in a growing subcontractor business;
• the difference between managing packages as a main contractor QS versus running the full commercial lifecycle as a subcontractor;
• why pricing documents matter — and how poor tender scoping creates disputes, inefficiency and margin erosion later;
• cash flow from the subcontractor’s lens, including downstream risk, extended payment terms and the knock-on effects to second-tier trades;
• why respecting a subcontractor’s bank account changes behaviour, outcomes and relationships;
• the value of interim final accounts as a way to draw a line in the sand, reduce risk and improve collaboration;
• leadership lessons from stepping up into a Managing QS role without formal management training; and
• why communication, scope clarity and fewer contractual amendments would materially improve project delivery.

Throughout the episode, Paul and David connect lived experience with practical commercial insight, offering both subcontractors and main contractors a clearer view of how decisions made upstream directly affect delivery, risk and performance downstream.

This is an honest, experience-led discussion for QSs, commercial managers and directors who want to understand how subcontractors really operate — and how better procurement, payment practices and leadership can improve outcomes for everyone.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Simon Rubinsohn, Chief Economist at the RICS, for a deep dive into one of the most pressing and under-discussed challenges facing the industry: the critical shortage of quantity surveyors — and what it means for productivity, cost, innovation and delivery across UK construction.

Drawing on the RICS 2025 Skills Survey and the latest Construction Monitor data, Simon explains why the QS shortage is no longer a future risk but a current constraint, with over a third of respondents describing it as critical — even in a flat market.

Together, Paul and Simon explore:

• why the QS skills shortage is more severe than most people realise;
• how limited capacity is already impacting output, cost control and client service;
• why skills shortages suppress innovation and lock productivity in a low-growth cycle;
• how construction productivity compares to the wider economy — and why it has stalled for years;
• the role sentiment data plays in understanding the real health of the industry;
• why construction struggles with perception, narrative and early-career attraction; and
• what needs to change across education, apprenticeships, mentoring and messaging to bring new talent into the profession.

The conversation also looks ahead to 2026 and beyond, unpacking the UK housing and infrastructure outlook, planning reform, interest rates, and why any future uplift in activity will only succeed if the skills gap is addressed first.

This is a timely, evidence-based discussion that connects labour shortages, productivity and economic growth — and challenges the industry to rethink how it attracts, supports and values quantity surveyors.

Essential listening for QSs, commercial leaders, policy-makers and anyone serious about the future of construction.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

We’re launching a new monthly Leadership Series on Own the Build — spotlighting the journeys, mindsets and behaviours behind world-class Commercial Directorship in construction.

For the first episode, Paul is joined by Mark Sheridan, Commercial Director of Commercial Services at BAM UK & Ireland, one of the UK’s largest Tier 1 contractors.

Mark shares his 25-year journey from graduate QS to Commercial Director — not as a linear career plan, but as a series of small, deliberate steps driven by curiosity, imagination and a desire to make things better. Along the way, he reflects on staying with one organisation while constantly evolving roles, building influence without chasing titles, and why long-term opportunity matters more than short-term gain.

The conversation also looks forward, exploring what great commercial leadership looks like in 2026, including:

• the difference between commercial management and commercialism;
• why freeing up QS time is the biggest untapped opportunity in construction;
• how imagination, not just process, drives better outcomes;
• moving the industry from cost-focused thinking to value-led decision making; and
• why relationships, trust and understanding the “why” matter more than ever.

This episode sets the tone for the series: honest, reflective and practical — aimed at QSs with ambitions to become Commercial Directors, and at existing CDs who want to benchmark what good really looks like in the next phase of the industry.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by Jordan Toman, QS recruitment specialist at ClearNorth — known by many as “the QS Insider”. Jordan sits at the centre of the UK QS market, speaking daily with quantity surveyors and commercial leaders across the country. Few people have a clearer view of what’s really happening behind the scenes.

With 2026 underway, this conversation tackles some of the most pressing issues facing the profession today.

In the first half of the episode, Paul and Jordan explore the current state of the QS market, including:

• why QSs remain the hardest role to hire in construction;
• the growing problem of burnout and overworked commercial teams;
• an ageing QS workforce and a lack of early-career exposure to the profession;
• fast-tracked promotions, “hollow titles”, and whether seniority is being earned or forced by necessity; and
• how QS salaries are shifting rapidly — and why traditional salary guides can’t keep up.

Jordan also breaks down realistic career progression and salary bands, from Assistant QS through to Senior QS, and explains where the real gaps are forming in the market.

The second half of the episode switches to the commercial leadership lens, covering:

• why job adverts no longer work for hiring QSs;
• how leading businesses are retaining talent through progression plans, one-to-ones, mentoring and freelance support;
• the truth about counteroffers — and why most QSs who accept them still leave within a year;
• what the best QSs do differently in interviews; and
• how commercial directors must rethink hiring if they want high-performing teams in 2026.

This is a practical, honest and timely conversation for QSs thinking about their next move — and for commercial leaders serious about building resilient, motivated teams in a market that has fundamentally changed.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

For our 250th episode, we mark a major milestone for Own the Build with a special collaboration with the RICS and the Project Flux podcast. This conversation arrives at a pivotal moment: the RICS has just published its first-ever global professional standard for the responsible use of AI in surveying, coming into effect in March 2026.

To unpack what this means for QSs, valuers, project professionals, software vendors and construction leaders, Paul is joined by three people who helped shape the standard:

• James Garner — Head of AI & Data at Gleeds, Chair of the Project Data Analytics Task Force, and host of Project Flux.
• Chris de Gruben — Senior Director & Head of AI at Artefact; co-chair of the RICS AI Working Group.
• Matthew Lavy — Barrister at 4 Pump Court specialising in technology disputes and AI liability.

Across this wide-ranging, practical and occasionally provocative discussion, the panel explore:

• Why the RICS created this standard now

Member demand, regulatory pressure, industry lag, and a cultural shift from “AI as a threat” to “AI as a professional tool”.

• The core pillars of responsible AI use

Risk registers, explainability, transparency to clients, PI considerations, shadow AI, enterprise-grade tools, and why “professional judgement” remains non-negotiable.

• What AI will — and won’t — replace

From AVMs and automated cost analysis to complex valuation, negotiation, context, and human judgement.

• The difference between enabling and restricting innovation

Why the RICS guidance is intentionally light-touch and principle-based, and how it avoids the rigidity of the EU AI Act.

• What this means for QSs, valuers, employers, universities and software vendors

Future training, AI literacy, cultural change, documentation, and how practitioners can protect themselves while accelerating adoption.

• The future of surveying and construction in an AI-native world

Agentic workflows, robotics, quantum computing, and the real-world impact on productivity, risk, client expectations and professional identity.

This is a landmark conversation at a turning point for the profession. If you want clarity on how AI will shape surveying, cost management and construction over the next five years — and what you should do in 2026 — this is essential listening.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

We’re kicking off 2026 with something special — a full replay of Own the Build Live, recorded in front of a packed audience in October 2025. If you were there, you’ll know the energy in the room was electric. If you weren’t, you’re in for a treat.

In this live session, Paul sits down with a formidable panel:
Sarah Fox (legal consultant),
Mike Wharton (Complete Roofing Systems),
Kelvin Maye (Group Commercial Director, Guildmore), and
Chris Barber (Co-Founder, C-Link).

Together they explore one of the most important — and most dysfunctional — parts of the construction industry: procurement.

The first half of the show tackles a big question: What does world-class procurement look like in 2026?

The panel pull no punches. They discuss risk dumping, terrible contracts, poor communication, lack of early engagement, broken tender processes, and why subcontractors and main contractors keep repeating the same mistakes. But they also highlight where the industry is genuinely improving — from two-stage tenders to fairer scoring and stronger commercial leadership.

The second half is a lively audience Q&A where questions spark debate across the room. Topics include:

• how QSs can be braver, fairer and more commercially aware;
• how subcontractors should push back with confidence;
• the failure of institutions to prepare young QSs for real-world procurement;
• whether digital tools and AI can finally fix the industry’s inefficiencies;
• the tension between “best value” and “cheapest price”; and
• how relationships, trust and empathy still outperform everything else.

It’s candid, honest and full of real-world stories — exactly the kind of conversation the industry needs more of.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In our final episode of 2025, we wrap up the year with a Christmas Question Time special — and as ever, Paul is joined by C-Link co-founder and former QS, Chris Barber, for an honest and entertaining look at the issues commercial teams are grappling with right now.

This episode is built entirely from listener questions, including:

• Have you ever received (or issued) a notice on Christmas Eve?
Paul shares the story of the year he unwrapped a “festive” million-pound claim instead of a bottle of wine — and why timing sends a louder message than the paperwork.

• How do commercial leaders shift the industry away from turnover obsession and back to sustainable profit?
From cash flow support to real partnerships with key trades, Paul and Chris explore practical, relationship-driven steps commercial directors can take in 2026.

• What should a QS team do when a client refuses to certify variations?
The pair discuss preventing the issue before it starts, how to regroup internally, how to push back professionally, and how to reset expectations without burning bridges.

• Are clients and consultants unintentionally driving inflation?
An honest look at over-specification, half-baked design, risk loading in D&B contracts, and why two-stage tendering might be the only sensible route forward.

Along the way, Paul and Chris reflect on their standout episodes of the year, the rise of two-stage procurement, the growing focus on goodwill, and why 2026 needs stronger industry-wide pushback on unrealistic commercial behaviours.

It’s insightful, candid, and the perfect way to close out the year before Own the Build returns on 12th January with Episode 249 — our first ever Own the Build Live recording.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode of Own the Build, Paul is joined by Trevor Wilkins, Managing Director of PAH Building & Construction — a contractor working deep inside one of the UK’s most complex and least-understood built environments: the defence estate.

Trevor shares the unique story of PAH’s evolution from a one-client refurb contractor to a £15m business operating across the UK, including the landmark MOD housing portfolio recently brought back into government ownership. He opens up about the early days, the risks he took, and the leadership principles that have helped him build a loyal, long-serving team.

In the second half, Paul and Trevor dive into the reality of retrofit — far removed from the glossy headlines of a “retrofit revolution”. Trevor gives a frank assessment of funding gaps, skills shortages, inconsistent standards, and the operational challenges that make large-scale retrofit so difficult today. He also offers practical guidance for contractors considering a pivot into the field.

Finally, Trevor discusses PAH’s commitment to developing the next generation of tradespeople, including hands-on partnerships with local colleges, mentoring new apprentices, and bringing students onto live sites.

This is a grounded, real-world conversation about leadership, resilience, retrofit, and what it actually takes to run a values-driven construction business in 2025.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In Episode 246, Paul is joined by Mike Rigby, Managing Director of MRA Research and architect of the Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI). With 35+ years in the industry and a mission to bring clarity to construction data, Mike pulls back the curtain on how our sector is being misrepresented — and why it matters.

Together, they explore:

📉 Why you can’t always trust official statistics — and what the ONS isn’t telling you
 🏗️ What the Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) is, and why Tier 1s, banks, and government rely on it
 📊 How to spot market cycles and make data-driven decisions
 🧠 The danger of “groupthink” in construction leadership
 💥 Why construction professionals must stop waiting for others to represent the industry

This is a must-listen for any contractor, QS, or commercial leader who’s ever tried to make decisions in the dark. If you care about data, procurement, market confidence, or just want to understand the bigger picture — don’t miss this one.

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In Episode 245 of Own the Build, Paul is joined by Faye Allen, a Chartered Quantity Surveyor, Quantum Expert Witness, and Fellow of the RICS, with over 30 years’ experience in construction. Faye is the author of Building Women
— a powerful new book that examines why the industry continues to lose talented people, and what leaders can do to change that.

This episode is essential listening for any QS, PM, or director who’s ever asked:

• Why are experienced professionals walking away from the industry?
• Why don’t we see more women in senior roles?
• What role does culture — not just maternity — play in retention?

Faye shares stories, research, and practical steps for building inclusive teams — without falling into the “gender war” trap. The conversation covers:

• Why so many women drop out by age 46
• The hidden burnout from constant “fighting the system”
• How male allies can show up — and why most don’t know where to start
• What subcontractors and SMEs need from Tier 1s
• Why toilets, mental health, and procurement all matter more than you think

If you're a construction leader who wants to attract and retain better talent, this episode will challenge your assumptions — and give you the tools to lead better.

🔗 Find out more about Faye’s book: buildingwomen.co.uk

---------------------------------

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In Episode 244, Question Time is back – and Paul is joined by recurring co-host Chris Barber to answer another round of listener questions from quantity surveyors and commercial professionals across the UK construction industry.

This month, we tackle:

• Should I switch from Main Contractor to Subcontractor? Chris shares real insight from his own experience and a surprising comparison to his wife’s retail-to-supplier career path.
• When is the right time to consider adjudication for delayed payments – and how do you protect the relationship?
• What behaviour would you change across QS teams? (Paul wants to ban document dumps. Chris wants to go to the pub.)
• Is lowest-price-wins procurement still the norm in 2025 – and are we finally shifting to value-based tendering?
• Plus: Thoughts on the new RICS Responsible Use of AI Standard, and why episode 250 will be a must-listen.

👀 Stick around for anecdotes from Paul’s subbie days, and a refreshing reminder that construction doesn't always have to be a battle.

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode, Paul is joined by George Lujans, Director at GoModular, for a masterclass on modular construction that breaks down everything you thought you knew.

George’s message is clear: most developers, QSs, and even modular startups have misunderstood modular construction – and that’s why it hasn’t delivered on its promises.

Together, Paul and George unpack:

• Why modular is a verb, not a noun – and how that changes everything.
• The biggest myths in modular: standardisation, site access, and planning restrictions.
• Why finance, not technology, is the real blocker to scaling modular housing.
• What QSs and developers are getting wrong when procuring modular projects.
• How we shift from chasing megafactories to building smarter, leaner, scalable modular systems.

If you're in cost management, development, or just curious about why modular keeps “failing,” this episode reframes the entire conversation.

📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode of Own the Build, Paul is joined by Mike Ashcroft (Co-Founder of EstimateOne) and Paddy Westbury (Estimating Director at Structure Tone) to explore the often misunderstood world of estimating – and its love/hate relationship with quantity surveying.

They dive into Paddy’s 40-year journey from sleepy PQS firms to the intensity of fast-track fit out, his reflections on Structure Tone’s explosive growth, and how modern estimators are evolving from number-pushers to project strategists. The trio unpack the cultural shift in tendering, what great QS–Estimator relationships look like, and why curiosity (plus owning your mistakes) might just be the best traits for the next generation of professionals.

If you’ve ever argued over a bill, blamed an estimator for a budget, or wondered who really owns procurement – this one’s for you.

🔗 Check the link below to download Paul’s free ebook:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

In this episode of Own the Build, Paul is joined by Katie Taylor, Managing Quantity Surveyor, to explore what it really takes to raise the bar for commercial professionals in construction.

Katie shares how she entered the industry by chance as a receptionist, studied part-time to become a QS, and developed a deep passion for coaching and communication. Together, Paul and Katie discuss:

• Why coaching is critical for QSs and subcontractors alike
• The underestimated importance of soft skills and psychological safety
• How to handle difficult conversations with confidence
• What truly makes a “great” QS in today’s market
• The real impact of curiosity, communication, and mindset

If you’re managing or mentoring QSs — or are one yourself — this episode offers practical insights into how to grow a strong, competent commercial team.

🔗 Check the link below to download Paul’s free ebook:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

!!!Get your free OTB Live Tickets here - Own The Build Live, October 23rd!!!

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In this episode of Own the Build, Paul is joined once again by his co-founder and sidekick, Chris Barber, for another round of Question Time. This time, the duo dives deep into one of the most shocking industry stats of 2025: the QS workforce has dropped by over 30% in just 12 months.

Together, they unpack why so many quantity surveyors are leaving the industry and discuss the knock-on effects on teams, projects, and future recruitment. From Reddit threads to anecdotes about early careers, to the pressures of poor tech and endless conflict – this is a raw and honest look at the current commercial landscape.

They also answer a range of listener questions including:

• Should QSs be getting bonuses for value engineering?
• Does a WhatsApp chat really count as a legally binding contract?
• How to think about early career progression and finding the right company fit.

This is an essential listen for QSs of all levels looking to make sense of today's challenges and get ahead in a changing market.

🔗 Check the link below to download Paul’s free ebook:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

For our list of other eBooks on building your QS Career and AI, click here - Free eBook Downloads.

Send us Fan Mail

Want to connect with Paul?

Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link. 

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.