Name: Bill Brock MCIOB
Employer: Skanska
Project: 30 Crown Place, London EC2
Contract: JCT 1998
Whether it was the big picture or the dense technical detail, Bill Brock demonstrated an awesome understanding of this massive project to construct 16,000 square metres of new-build office space in the heart of the City.
The developer was looking to Bill to come tearing out of the blocks and make an expeditious start on a speculative build that aimed to capitalise on tenant demand as soon as possible. It wasn’t disappointed. Bill worked proactively to develop a contract before works had to begin, accepting that the design had not been fully detailed but determined to deliver the uncompromisable quality required.
With the contract signed and the main parameters set, Bill then set to work digesting the practical details. He identified, appreciated and resolved the construction problems head-on. Examples include his recovery from the effect of an archaeology investigation onsite by reviewing the sequencing, and his decommissioning of an electricity substation within eight weeks to avoid lengthy programme delays.
He showed an exemplary ability to co-ordinate the safe construction of a transfer truss at level nine, implementing a robust and thorough change control process that avoided unpleasant surprises, and managing the cladding contractor’s first central London installation.
Bill’s in-depth project knowledge, allied to an enthusiastic and motivating leadership style that put a premium on team building and enjoyment, won the respect of the professional team. He kept a powerful grip on the progress of works and the problems encountered. His opinion counted with the design team, his management decisions were relied on, and his 30 years’ construction experience was given the respect it deserved when he suggested alternative methods of design and construction.
And his suggestions translated into extensive bottom-line benefits. His design involvement included redesigning the steel frame to start at the basement level and so eliminate a programme-consuming transfer slab, re-engineering the core layout to maximise the net lettable area, and omitting the ventilated cladding panels by changing the glass specification and introducing blinds.
Value: £60.7m