Name: Ian French
Employer: BAM
Project: Severn Trent Centre, Coventry
Intelligence, dedication and organisation gave Ian French the sharpest of tools for leading this complex project.
He fully grasped the ambitions of the client team and enthusiastically embraced them. He agreed strategies early with the client and then immediately brought the supply team on board, pausing only to engage with the local community while he was at it. His committed managerial style ensured that no conflict was stored up for later.
Ian created excellent working relationships by listening to the stakeholders and exceeding their expectations while always being focused, courteous and considerate. He remained unflustered during the most frenzied periods and never lost sight of the detail.
Wherever possible he blended the high achievers and experienced professionals who made up the backbone of his team with youth and exuberance in key positions. He then assigned mentors as well as specific duties to the junior members.
With his competence and creative problem-solving skills clear to see early in the scheme, the client then awarded him the huge £8.1m fit-out contract as well. With the fit-out brief and design still being worked out, Ian put to good use his outstanding management skills and ability to adapt quickly to the constantly changing scenario. His impeccable analytical and communication skills helped guide this complex scheme through to a well-managed solution.
Value: £49.9m