In this episode, Paul is joined by Bernie Keens, freelance Commercial Manager and Managing QS, to explore a growing trend in the construction industry:
Why are experienced QSs choosing freelance over the traditional climb to Commercial Director?
Having spent 13 years progressing from Junior QS to Commercial Manager within the same contractor, Bernie recently made the move into freelance commercial management. The conversation explores what drove that decision, what he's learned so far, and whether the industry's traditional career ladder still appeals to experienced commercial professionals.
Paul and Bernie discuss:
- the realities of moving from QS to people manager and commercial leader;
- why mentorship and continuous learning remain critical throughout your career;
- the challenge of retaining ambitious Senior QSs in a competitive market;
- why some of the industry's best commercial professionals don't actually want management roles; and
- how flexibility, autonomy and lifestyle are changing career decisions for a new generation of QSs.
The discussion also tackles a broader industry challenge: how contractors attract and retain the commercial talent needed to become the next generation of leadership.
The message is clear:
career success isn't always about the next job title — it's about finding the role, lifestyle and opportunities that are right for you.
A thoughtful conversation for QSs, Commercial Managers and business leaders looking to understand how career aspirations in construction are evolving.
---------------------------------
📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:
Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success
Send us Fan Mail
Want to connect with Paul?
Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link.
C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.
Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.
