KNOWLES TEAM – Q&A with Knowles Project Manager, Neil Pym
Tell us about yourself and your career history
I started my career in the construction industry as a scaffold labourer as a summer job when I left school. After this baptism by fire I felt a move to a carpentry apprenticeship would be a better fit for me and from here I progressed through my NVQ’s and onto a HNC. It was during the latter where I moved from Devon to London to pursue my dream of following an opportunity in project management. From this point on in knew I had found my passion of managing and delivering projects from tender through to practical completion.
What projects are you working on at Knowles?
Currently running 2 super prime projects in St. John’s Wood and Wimbledon. Both consist of large basements with a new build superstructure above through to a complete fit out. Internally they consist of ultra-high end finishes where I thrive on the challenges associated with delivering a project of the highest standard.
What projects have you worked on in the past?
I have worked on a variety of projects from museum fit outs in the UK for the 2012 Olympics to discovery centres in the middle east. For the last 10 years I have found my natural home working in the high-end residential market in Prime London. During this time work has taken me to properties in the most exclusive of postcodes in London, predominantly in the Knightsbridge, Kensington and Chelsea areas.
What’s your project management ethos?
I am a firm believer that the most important aspect of project management is good communication. This leads to a clear understanding of the client and their dream, working with the project team to construct their vision and delivering it with the use of some of the best specialists out there.
What can we expect from a project managed by you?
A ‘hands on’ collaborative approach working openly with all members of the project team. No project is without its difficulties but problem solving can be one of the most rewarding aspects and encourages a team. Building a positive atmosphere is essential to a successful project and one that can only enhance the end product and even a bit of fun along the way.
