How did your career progress into project management?
After studying the BSc Building Surveying at Northumbria University, I began my career in the construction and built environment sector as a building surveyor in Northern Ireland, gaining several years of experience and expertise in building pathology.
I then decided to pursue further study through the MSc Construction and Project Management at Queen's University Belfast, which facilitated my progression into project management.
Even at an early stage, I also had regular engagement with clients, landlords, and other industry professionals, which gave me an overarching perspective on different roles, responsibilities, and the vast opportunities within the construction industry.
Therefore, the move into project management was quite natural for me. I enjoyed working in larger teams, problem solving, project planning, and the satisfaction of delivering projects.
How did you get your job as a senior project manager with CSQ?
I was quite fortunate to be contacted by a recruitment representative who offered several job opportunities in the Middle East.
Following an interview process and some research, CSQ stood out to me straight away as a well-recognised company with a strong professional reputation and a vast project portfolio.
Most importantly, I was impressed by CSQ's approach to its culture, people, and working relationships across the United Arab Emirates (UAE). I can confidently say that CSQ has given me the platform to grow, build fantastic connections, and deliver high-end projects in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
What are your main duties as a senior project manager, and what projects are you currently working on?
My main duties have expanded into business growth and securing new project leads. While maintaining my day-to-day role in project delivery, I also attend project pitches and develop project proposals, which involve:
- benchmark scheduling
- resource management
- writing project strategies.
My projects comprise a wide range of commercial fit-outs and residential projects, each presenting unique challenges and success factors.
How important are professional qualifications, such as those offered by a professional body like APM, for this career?
As our industry becomes more competitive across all sectors, project professionals need a way to stand out. Professional qualifications provide clients with confidence and trust, recognition amongst colleagues and team members, and a sense of personal achievement.
Having a professional qualification demonstrates industry competence and knowledge, as well as your dedication to continuous professional development.
Briefly tell us about achieving ChPP status - what was involved in your application process?
To achieve ChPP status, I completed Pathway 1 with APM, which included a written submission and a two-hour interview.
My written submission comprised two project overviews (with a maximum allowance of four), along with detailed statements addressing both the required and elective competencies.
In addition, I logged 35 hours of continuing professional development (CPD) within the past 12 months and provided a written commitment to adhere to the APM Code of Professional Conduct.
Following confirmation that my submission was successful, I was invited to attend an interview. This stage enables assessors to further explore and validate the professional practice demonstrated within the written submission.
The interview primarily focused on assessing my technical knowledge across the relevant competencies, based on the evidence provided.
In preparation, I developed structured responses around conflicting objectives and demonstrated how I applied technical knowledge and established processes to resolve project challenges outlined in my project overviews. It is essential to have a thorough understanding of the experience, while also maintaining a broad knowledge base to respond effectively to scenario-based questions.
The final stage of the chartered status interview assessed my understanding of:
- compliance
- ethics
- professional conduct.
Why is it important for more project professionals to get chartered status?
Achieving this is an important step for project professionals as it represents a recognised benchmark of competence, experience, and ethical practice within the profession.
It demonstrates not only technical expertise but also a commitment to CPD and adherence to high standards. Chartered status truly enhances credibility and provides formal recognition of your personal skills and achievements.
This can increase confidence among employers, clients, and stakeholders, particularly when managing complex or high-value projects where trust and accountability are critical.
What were the biggest challenges during the ChPP process, and how did you overcome them?
For most people, including myself, undertaking the ChPP process can seem daunting. Chartered status can appear like a very small light at the end of a tunnel. However, when you break down the different steps and have a plan in place to address each project competence, the light at the end of that tunnel becomes much bigger very quickly.
There are obvious challenges balancing a nine-to-five job with your chartered submission, choosing the right competencies that highlight your experience and understanding, and fitting everything within the word count, which can be more challenging than it seems.
I strongly recommend using the APM's supportive tools and techniques, such as the self-assessment tool, guidance notes, mentoring programmes, and chartered webinars. Collectively, these also help overcome the 'I don't know where to start' stigma and develop a roadmap for each stage.
Also, remember, you are not alone. One thing that really helped me leading up to my interview was the support from other ChPP members in my regional network, who answered any questions, helped with Q&A preparation, and calmed my nerves.
What value has becoming a ChPP brought to your career, day‑to‑day work and standing within the industry?
It has brought significant value to my career, both in terms of professional credibility and day-to-day effectiveness. Having ChPP after your name provides formal recognition of my experience, competence, and commitment to best practices in project delivery.
In terms of career progression, achieving ChPP status has differentiated me within a competitive field, opening up new opportunities and reinforcing my professional reputation among peers, clients, and senior leadership. It signals a commitment to ongoing professional development and adherence to recognised standards, both of which are highly valued across the industry.
Becoming a ChPP has not only validated my past experience but has also strengthened my capability, confidence, and influence as a project professional.
What are the main benefits of being a member of a professional body like APM?
Membership offers several valuable benefits that support both personal and professional development.
Firstly, it provides access to a wide range of resources, including industry publications, best-practice guidelines, and continuous learning opportunities, helping members stay up to date with evolving standards and methodologies.
Secondly, being part of the APM enhances professional credibility. It demonstrates a commitment to maintaining high standards and adhering to recognised practices within the project management profession.
Another key benefit is networking. APM membership connects professionals with a broad community of practitioners, enabling knowledge sharing, collaboration, and exposure to diverse perspectives across industries. As your career progresses, these advantages become increasingly significant.
How does this help you as you progress your career?
Access to ongoing professional development supports skill advancement, while professional recognition and networking opportunities can open doors to new roles, leadership positions, and career growth. Ultimately, membership helps individuals build competence, confidence, and a strong professional reputation over time.
What advice would you give to others who are interested in pursuing professional accreditation in this field?
- Start the preparation early. Have a clear understanding of each pathway and the competency criteria you wish to focus on. Speak with your line manager to put in place a transparent action plan so your day-to-day role can be tailored to meet the requirements of your written submission.
- Utilise support networks and the information provided. Whether you have an allocated supervisor, colleague, network representative, or even family members, don't shy away from discussing any challenges or asking for feedback from different perspectives. This is extremely useful leading up to your interview.
- It's never too late to start. Some project professionals don't feel quite ready in the earlier stages of their career or wish to wait until they have more experience in project delivery before pursuing professional accreditation. Don't let this put you off if more time passes than originally expected. When you're truly ready, you'll know. And trust me, the end result is worth it.
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