An Interview With…A Quantity Surveyor

This is the first of a small series of blogs exploring the real life career journeys of some of my friends and colleagues (past and present). As an adult, I’ve found there to be very little information on changing careers and the choices available to me. I can’t speak for everyone but I feel that some careers are out of reach because I don’t know enough about them and the different routes that would get me into them. I love Google more than anything but it doesn’t have ALL of the answers.

I hope that you, my lovely reader, find this useful and interesting even if you don’t wish to change career. I think we should have more conversations about this type of thing to break down the barriers and open up possibilities and opportunities for others. Without further ado….take it away Olivia!

What’s your name, age and what do you do?

Olivia Tilley, 29, Senior Quantity Surveyor for a groundwork’s company. I manage costs for a job from start to finish, pricing up a job for a client and then managing the costs throughout making sure it stays within budget.

How long have you done this job?

I’ve been doing it for 13 years, I started a summer placement when I was 17.

How did you get your job?

I got a summer placement through my Dad’s friend at a large north east company and after that ended, they kept me on. I stayed at that company for 10 years and worked up from Trainee to Quantity Surveyor.

Is this a career that you planned?

I always knew I wasn’t a girly girl so wanted to get into construction in some way – after speaking with a few people, being a QS sounded perfect. I went to college and gained a BTEC in construction then I did an HND in Building Studies.

If someone wanted to do what you do, what would you advise?

Get an apprenticeship through a company as I believe getting hands-on experience working within the role and studying alongside it is more beneficial (than a purely academic route). There are a lot of great companies and a shortage of good people wanting to come into the role – it’s a great career choice.

Where do you see yourself in 2 years?

I’ve just started at a new company and took a step up in my career so in two years, I hope to be well grounded in my new role, making a difference and continuing to be a part of this team. I hope I can make a difference to the company and be as respected as some of my colleagues.

I love being in construction and my role as a Quantity Surveyor. I work in an office environment but also get to be out onsite in the middle of the action! I used to feel intimidated being in a male dominated industry but I’ve only ever been treated with the upmost respect and appreciation.

Thank you so much Olivia, you’re a Superstar!

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