Case studies: Chartered quantity surveyor: Simon Kempthorne

Simon studied for a construction management and surveying degree at the University of Reading. He is currently a chartered quantity surveyor at EC Harris.

I attended a careers fair at my university during my second year and was welcomed by EC Harris who gave me the opportunity to conduct a summer placement. This proved to be invaluable during my final year at university as I was able to utilise the skills I had learnt. I was also offered a full-time graduate role once I had completed my degree.

My subject of study was hugely relevant to my current position as it is an accredited degree by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This enabled me to qualify for chartered status and I was able to complete the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) whilst working. This involved two years practical experience and passing an interview with a panel of assessors. The RICS professional qualification is highly regarded worldwide and I believe that it will prove to be a springboard to future career progression.

On a typical day I divide my time amongst the projects I am working on. I really enjoy this way of working as I am always facing new and exciting challenges across all phases of the built. I am able to frequently visit construction sites, which is great as you can physically see the fruits of your hard work. This ensures the work is consistently varied and interesting.

My role has developed from assisting in the commercial management of high-rise commercial and residential towers in the City of London to commercially managing the creation and operation of a large portfolio of built assets across Greater London for a leading public sector client. My career ambitions are to take an active role in developing the business through building excellent relationships with new and existing clients.

I enjoy working as part of a team in order to reach a common goal by sharing ideas, decision making and responsibilities. I especially enjoy the energy and innovative thinking that a high performing team provides. I also enjoy the variety of work which the profession provides and the opportunities for international mobility that EC Harris offers.

I find the most challenging parts of my job are managing team members and the expectations of clients. This will often involve challenging opinions and ideas of others in order to innovate and develop further ideas to tackle a problem.

The public sector presents many challenges. The best thing about working for the public sector is being able to provide tangible benefits to the public and being able witness the essential function and enjoyment the built asset provides.

I believe the construction industry presents many exciting opportunities. For those interested in a career in the industry I would recommend undertaking an accredited degree by the RICS. If this is not possible then seeking out an employer who can provide you with the training needed to enjoy a hugely rewarding career.