James Peacock joined Solomons Europe as a Project Quantity Surveyor in our North West Process and Engineering division in October 2020.

With a couple of prestigious awards under his belt and experience working on several key landmark construction and infrastructure projects in Liverpool and Manchester, James reveals what lured him to joining us and gives his impressions on what sets us apart from the rest.

My background

I’ve come from a main contracting background working for a global tier one contractor on projects ranging from leisure and hospitality to residential. During my six-and-a- half years there I went from being part of a large commercial team to running my own projects.

This was great, but I wanted to gain more experience across other industries, particularly process and power. I also wanted to work somewhere that would enable me to use the skills I’m picking up studying for a Masters in Construction Law and Practice into – well – practice. And I also wanted the opportunity to become Chartered as part of the journey I’m on in this industry.

This is where Solomons came in.

A natural fit with Solomons

I was blown away when I first met Dominic, John and Dawn. I was really taken with the emphasis the business places on collaboration and dispute avoidance.

And given I was eager to progress my career I was naturally attracted by the importance it places on its people and the commitment it makes to the training and development of all its employees.

We also share a passion for social sustainability, and I was eager to be involved in the Pay it Forward initiative and the many other activities Solomons is involved in, both as a company and by working in partnership with its clients.

How I’ve found it

Joining a new company and switching from contracting to consultancy was a scary move to make! I lacked the experience in the sectors that Solomons specialises in, but Dominic and the team have given me support, guidance and a fresh perspective and have made me feel like a valued member of the Solomons family.

This has given me a huge boost in confidence and drives me to achieve the best possible results for our clients and Solomons.

Despite joining in the middle of the Coronavirus pandemic, and having to work remotely, I’ve been made to feel extremely welcome. The company’s regular Lunch & Learn sessions have been a fantastic way to see what’s going on in the industry and develop new ways of thinking and doing things. Solomons is always looking to be more innovative.

And it clearly puts a big focus on the health and wellbeing of employees, with dedicated online sessions on a whole range of issues such as striking the right work/ life balance.

I also really enjoyed the virtual Christmas Party. While it would never replace the real thing, it was a great way for a new starter to get involved and meet more colleagues across the region teams.

A bright future

I can honestly say joining Solomons has really energised me. It’s great to be part of a company that is broadening its horizons and investing in the future. I’d encourage anyone thinking of applying for a Project Quantity Surveyor role to go ahead and do it.

Discover more about our current Project Quantity Surveyor vacancies by clicking here.