The Take Off - The Quantity Surveying Podcast

Епизоди

• EP 173 | The realities of moving to australia as a QS 14.12.2025 1ч

  What’s it really like moving to Australia as a Quantity Surveyor?In this episode of The Take Off Podcast, Mick breaks down the reality of relocating overseas to build a career in construction — from starting out on site and improving communication skills, to navigating different construction cultures across Europe and Australia.The episode explores the pressures of early career decisions, the value of hands-on site experience, and why mastering construction fundamentals still matters in an industry increasingly shaped by AI. Mick also reflects on working on globally significant projects, including stadium developments at FC Barcelona, and leading cost strategies within major international organisations.A candid conversation about ambition, risk, caree r patience, and what it really takes to build a sustainable Quantity Surveying career abroad.🎧 Listen now to understand the real trade-offs behind moving overseas for work.🏗️ Learn how we support construction professionals building international careers at👉 www.gedonexecutive.com
• EP 173 | Alberto Fernandez – Senior Cost Engineer at Amazon on Stadiums, AI and a Global Career in Construction 07.12.2025 56мин

  From small family contractors in Spain…to working on the Camp Nou redevelopment for FC Barcelona…to leading cost strategy for Amazon across Europe and beyond.In this episode, We're joined by Alberto Fernandez, MRICS chartered quantity surveyor and Senior Cost Engineer at Amazon, to talk about a truly global career in construction – and how AI is about to reshape the industry.Alberto shares how early days on site with a labour–owner taught him the realities of construction, why he left Spain during the financial crisis to improve his English in Australia, and how that eventually led to roles with major contractors, FC Barcelona and now Amazon.We dive into:Growing up in Spain and “falling into” construction via a technical architect degreeEarly years on site: concrete on your boots, drywall, rebar and understanding the real basicsHow the global financial crisis forced him to reset and move to AustraliaDiscovering quantity surveying and the RICS route later in his careerLanding the role at FC Barcelona and working on Camp Nou & Johan Cruyff StadiumWhat it really takes to deliver complex stadium projects under huge pressureMoving into Amazon and leading cost engineering across Europe and beyondHis take on AI in construction – what’s hype, what’s real and what’s coming nextWhy companies will need their own AI tools and “internal schools” for juniorsAdvice for young QSs and cost engineers entering an AI-powered industryIf you’re interested in stadiums, global careers, cost engineering or AI in construction, this one is packed with insight.👉 For more conversations like this, visit gedonexecutive.comOr Connect with Alberto
• EP 172 | Joey Hidalgo – Founder & CEO of The Measuring Company on Engineering, Entrepreneurship & Estimating at Scale 30.11.2025 48мин

  What happens when an electrical engineer, estimator, and salesperson becomes a construction tech founder?You get The Measuring Company — and one of the fastest-growing remote estimating models in Australia.In this episode, Joey Hidalgo, Founder & CEO of The Measuring Company, breaks down his journey from the Philippines to Australia, the flaws he saw in traditional estimating, and how he built a global team delivering measurement, estimating and procurement support for builders and subcontractors.Joey shares:Why most builders lose profit long before a job startsThe true bottlenecks in estimating teamsHow offshore talent can increase accuracy — not reduce itWhy AI won’t replace estimators, but estimators who use AI will winHow TMC trains engineers to work at Australian standardsThe future of estimating, outsourcing, and construction techA must-listen for estimators, QSs, builders and anyone shaping the future of construction operations.👉 Explore more construction leadership insights at gedonexecutive.com
• EP 171 | Joseph Stewart, Director of JS Held - A Deep Dive Into Quantum expert Work 24.11.2025 52мин

  What does it really take to become a quantum expert in construction?In this episode of The Take Off Podcast, Joe Stewart, Director at JS Held, shares how he went from a 16-year-old university student in Scotland to a trusted figure in dispute resolution and expert witness work.Joe breaks down:⚖️ The real difference between QS and expert roles📋 How adjudication and arbitration actually work in practice🧠 Why mastering fundamentals still matters in expert work🤖 The power — and danger — of AI in claims and analysis📉 Why tier-one contractors are pulling back from high-risk marketsWhether you’re an aspiring expert, a senior QS, or just curious how construction disputes are won and lost — this is a must-listen.🎧 Listen now on The Take Off Podcast🏗️ Build your next move with gedonexecutive.com
• EP 170 | Orla Kellehan - Chartered Quantity Surveyor at John Sisk on a Life as a Female QS, Mother & Leader in the Global Construction Sector 16.11.2025 56мин

  Can you build a high-level career in construction without giving up your personal life?Orla Kellehan, Senior Quantity Surveyor at John Sisk & Son and chartered member of the SCSI and RICS, proves you can.In this episode of The Take Off Podcast, Orla shares her 20-year journey through Ireland and Australia — from her early days juggling part-time study and site work, to becoming a respected voice for flexibility and inclusion in the industry.We dive into:The realities of being a woman and mother in constructionHow Orla negotiated a 4-day hybrid role while staying on major projectsWhy true equality starts with flexibility, not slogansHer advice for young women considering a career in quantity surveyingAnd how mentorship, continuous learning, and empathy can reshape leadership in constructionIt’s honest, practical, and deeply relevant to anyone who believes career and life don’t have to compete.🎧 Listen now on The Take Off Podcast🏗️ Build your next move at gedonexecutive.com
• EP 169 | International Experience, Local Impact with Paschal Walsh Managing Director at TIMESING 09.11.2025 54мин

  What if the best degree you ever took wasn’t in a classroom — but on site?Paschal Walsh, FRICS and founder of Times in Tribe, has spent three decades shaping projects and people across Ireland, the UK, Europe, and Australia. From local housing schemes to billion-pound infrastructure, his story shows how curiosity and adaptability fuel success.He shares why testing your education before you invest, building a strong network, and gaining international experience can transform your career in construction and quantity surveying.🎧 For professionals focused on career development, RICS chartership, or leadership in construction, this episode is a must.At GEDON Executive, we connect ambitious professionals with projects that matter.🌐 Let’s build your next move: gedonexecutive.com
• EP 168 | Mastering the Fundamentals is the Real QS Superpower with Aaron Tomsett from Costplan Group 02.11.2025 50мин

  What does it really take to build a lasting career in construction?Not quick moves. Not luck. Real growth comes from understanding the fundamentals — and playing the long game.In this episode of The Take Off Podcast, Aaron Tomsett, Group Operations Director at Cost Plan Group, shares his journey from leaving school at 16 to leading an international construction consultancy across Australia, the UK, and Papua New Guinea.Aaron talks about:Why career patience often beats constant job-hoppingHow he took a pay cut to move from development to contracting — and why it paid offWhat schools and universities get wrong about career guidance in constructionThe power of mentorship and leadership awarenessHow understanding the core principles of quantity surveying reduces stress and errorsWhat the construction markets in Australia, PNG, and the UK look like right nowWhether you’re an aspiring quantity surveyor, a project manager looking for direction, or a senior leader shaping teams, this conversation delivers grounded insights on career progression_____we help top-tier contractors, developers, and consultancies build teams that build the industry — connecting the right people to the right opportunities at the right time.🚀 Ready to build what’s next?Explore how we help ambitious professionals and forward-thinking firms grow together at 👉 www.gedonexecutive.com
• EP 167 | Director of Quantity Surveying at TTPP on a Life & Career in Quantity Surveying 26.10.2025 55мин

  30+ years in the game and Alan Bertram still says the best thing you can do is go to site and ask questions.No fluff. No filters. Just honest reflections from someone who worked his way from office junior… to director.In this week’s episode, we talk:– Why analogue learning built better QSs– The truth about leadership (and why it’s more about listening than directing)– Why technology hasn't delivered on its promise– And what really makes someone promotable in today’s market“You don’t need to know everything.But you need to care.And you need to get on with people.”🎧 Listen here: #TheTakeoffPodcast #QuantitySurveying #ConstructionCareers #LeadershipInQS #OldSchoolLearning #BuiltDifferent
• EP 166 | Leadership, Loyalty, and Letting Go—A Raw Chat with Neil Watson 01.06.2025 42мин

  When Neil Watson moved to Australia, he had no job, no network, and no shortcuts.Now he's a Director at Savills Australia & New Zealand.On this week’s Takeoff Podcast, Neil unpacks:🔹 Restarting his career at 30🔹 Going from QS to project lead🔹 Building relationships over chasing titles🔹 Why six months on-site changed everythingIt’s honest, practical, and proof that patience does pay off.👤 Connect with Neil here: Neil Watson🚀 Powered by GedonExecutive.com#TakeoffPodcast #ConstructionLeadership #GedonExecutive #CareerRestart #QS #AustraliaConstruction
• EP 165 - The power of Making one Hard Decision and sticking to it 18.05.2025 1ч 7мин

  What happens when your dream dies before you’re even 25?Lachlan Stuart—men’s coach, ultra-endurance athlete, and founder of The Man That Can Project—shares his transformation from a lost ex-rugby player to a global leader in men’s mental health and performance.You’ll hear: The mindset shift that changed his life  How selling supplements sparked personal reinvention  What 58 marathons in 58 days taught him about pain, purpose, and leadership  The real cost of chasing success the wrong way  Why most men don’t need more advice—they need directionWhether you're in a season of growth, burnout, or recalibration, this conversation will meet you where you are—and challenge you to take full ownership of your life. Listen now and get ready to redefine what you're capable of. Sponsored by GEDON Executive We place elite PreConstruction and PreControl™ talent across Ireland, the UK & Australia. Connect with Lachlan StuartWebsite: www.themanthatcanproject.com Instagram: @lachlanstuart LinkedIn: Lachlan Stuart
• EP 164: Stop Guessing. Start Delivering — with Megan Smith, Adrian Budiono & Dan Butterick 04.05.2025 1ч 6мин

  In this roundtable, we go deep into project deliverability — how to actually get things built on time, within budget, and without the usual chaos.I’m joined by three absolute guns in the quantity surveying game:👉 Megan Smith (DCWC)👉 Adrian Budiono (Genus Advisory)👉 Daniel Butterick (RPS)We talk about how QSs can make or break a build, why you should never tender without a clean cost plan, how to spot risk early, and the brutal truth about Australia’s design-delivery misalignment.If you're building anything over $1M, this episode is worth every second.Brought to you by GEDON — for companies who take construction delivery seriously.Want to level up your cost strategy? Visit the link.🎙️ Reach the guests:Megan Smith – LinkedInAdrian Burdiono – LinkedInDan Butterick – LinkedInFollow the show, drop a review, and tag us on socials if something hits.We know it will!#QuantitySurveying #Construction #ProjectDelivery #CostManagement #TakeOffPodcast
• EP 163 | 50 Years of Lessons with Colin Addley from Addmore Services 20.04.2025 1ч 7мин

  From the Burj Al Arab to billion-dollar resorts in Las Vegas, Colin Addley has spent over five decades shaping skylines across the globe. In this episode, the Founder & President of Admore Services joins us to unpack the real cost of delivery, the offshore model vs. traditional recruitment, and how to build high-performing QS teams—without compromising quality.🌎 With experience across the UK, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the U.S., Colin brings hard-earned lessons in -quantity surveying- project management- scaling teams internationally.🚀 We talk:Quantity surveying from the 1980s to nowHow to manage projects across five continentsWhat outsourcing gets right (and wrong)Why experience still matters in the age of AI🔗 Connect with Colin AddleyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinaddley/Website: https://addmoreservices.com/—🎧 Brought to you by GEDONCheck them out: www.gedonexecutive.com
• EP 162 - The skills gap is worse than ever with Rachel Bermoy from Büteros 06.04.2025 1ч 1мин

  🚀 The engineering skills gap is real—and it’s only getting worse.Graduates coming out of uni? Zero real-world experience. Companies losing top talent? Because there’s no proper training. AI taking over? Not a chance—human mentorship is still king.In this episode of The Take Off Podcast, I chat with Rachel Bermoy, founder of Buteras, about how we fix this mess.We get into: 🏗️ Why the industry is failing young engineers 🎓 How real mentorship & training can change everything 🤝 Why connecting retired pros with new talent is a game-changer 💡 AI vs. human judgment—who wins in engineering? 🚀 Rachel’s move from engineer to entrepreneur & what she’s buildingIf you’re in engineering, construction, or just trying to figure out your next move, this one’s for you.🔗 Listen now!🎙️ Sponsored by GEDON Executive Recruitment GEDON helps top firms find the best talent in construction & engineering worldwide. 📩 Need the right people? Contact info@gedonexecutive.com#TheTakeOffPodcast #Engineering #SkillsGap #Mentorship #WorkforceTraining #Construction #AIinIndustry #CareerGrowth
• EP 161 - Improving the view of Estimating & Cost Management in Australia with Reiss Draper, Mathys Olivier, Tony Avsec & Matt Miles 23.03.2025 52мин

  Most people still don’t understand the true value of a QS.In this roundtable episode of The Take Off Podcast, Mick Donaghy is joined by some of the best in the business:🎙 Mathys Olivier – Director, Slattery🎙 Tony Avsec OAM – National Cost Planning Manager (Defence), Built🎙 Matthew Miles – Director, Melrose🎙 Reiss Draper MRICS – Associate Director, MBMpl Pty LtdGet ready for a incredible conversation on:📉 The QS skills gap—why the industry is struggling to train the next generation🏗️ The future of estimating—how AI & tech are reshaping the profession💰 The problem with cost management—why clients still don’t ‘get it’📚 Education & mentorship—fixing the talent pipeline before it’s too lateAs experienced QS professionals retire in droves, who’s stepping up to fill the gap?This episode is a wake-up call for the industry—whether you're a QS, estimator, or just want to understand why cost management is so critical.🎙️ Sponsored by GEDON Executive RecruitmentGEDON connects top talent with leading construction & cost management firms worldwide.📩 Need expert QS professionals? Visit www.gedonexecutive.com#QuantitySurveying #Estimating #CostManagement #QS #Construction #SkillsGap #AIinConstruction #CareerGrowth #TheTakeOffPodcast
• EP 160 - Is construction STILL operating like it’s the 1970s? With Ralph Montague, from ARCDOX 10.03.2025 58мин

  For an industry worth $12 trillion, construction is shockingly inefficient.Projects run late.Budgets get blown.30% of materials end up in skips.Meanwhile, manufacturing?✅ Faster.✅ Cheaper.✅ More efficient.So why is construction STILL operating like it’s the 1970s?In this episode, Mick sits down with Ralph Montague, co-founder of ArcDox and BIM Heroes, to talk about how Building Information Modeling (BIM) is forcing the industry to evolve—whether it likes it or not.They cover:🏗️ Why contractors resist efficiency (and how it’s costing them money)📉 The global skills shortage—why construction is desperate for digital talent🤝 Why collaboration—not competition—will drive the industry forward💰 How companies actually using BIM are making more moneyThe industry is changing.The question is: Are you adapting? Or getting left behind?🎧 Listen now: [Insert Link]#TheTakeOffPodcast #BIM #ConstructionTech #DigitalTransformation #Efficiency #PreControl
• EP 159 | What's behind our big move to Ireland with Mick Donaghy 02.02.2025 43мин

  a New Start in Ireland 🇳🇿➡️🇮🇪 In this episode of The Take Off Podcast, powered by GEDON, Mick shares why he left Australia and moved back to Ireland. He dives into: 💰 The skyrocketing housing costs in Australia & New Zealand 👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 How family values influenced his decision 🌍 The advantages of being closer to Europe for business & lifestyle 🔍 His vision for GEDON and the future of recruitment with ‘Pre-Control’ If you’ve ever faced a big career or life decision, you’ll relate to this one. 📲 Listen now: [Insert Link] 💬 Have you ever moved for a better future? Drop your thoughts below! 👇 #TheTakeOffPodcast #GEDON #MovingAbroad #HousingCrisis #ConstructionCareers
• EP 158 | Our 2024 Year Review with Mick Donaghy 15.12.2024 45мин

  Navigating Construction's Challenges and Opportunities Join Mick for a candid reflection on the construction industry's journey through 2024. Get ready to discuss How political changes and economic uncertainty shaped the construction landscape in 2024. Learn how GEDON™ adapted to changing market conditions and refined its strategic focus. Industry Trends: Discover key shifts in talent movement, work preferences, and emerging opportunities in digital infrastructure. Gain insights into AI integration, data centres, and clean energy projects shaping the industry's future. Understanding the importance of strategic partnerships and quality talent acquisition in construction. Addressing burnout and the critical need for better work-life balance in construction. Tune in to this insightful year-end review that combines industry analysis with practical insights for construction professionals. This episode is proudly sponsored by RIB Software. RIB offers innovative software solutions to help construction professionals streamline their workflows and improve project delivery. Visit their website to learn more: https://www.rib-software.com/en/ Ask us about our special offer for listeners! Are you a construction professional looking to make your next career move? Connect with GEDON for personalised career guidance and opportunities in the construction sector. #ConstructionIndustry #YearInReview #DigitalTransformation #TheTakeOffPodcast #Construction2024 #Recruitment #CareerAdvice #ConstructionPodcast
• EP 157 | Alex Johnson on Building a Fit Out & Interior Construction Business 08.12.2024 55мин

  THROWBACK Building a Better Future: The Story of Building Guild Join Mick Donaghy as he sits down with Alex Johnson and Tom Moore, the dynamic duo behind Building Guild. In this episode, they discuss: The Building Guild Story: Learn about the company's mission and values. The Importance of Culture: Discover how Building Guild fosters a positive and collaborative work environment. The Future of Construction: Explore the latest trends and challenges shaping the industry. Leadership and Mentorship: Gain insights into effective leadership and career development. Work-Life Balance and Mental Health: Learn how to prioritize well-being in a demanding industry. Tune in to this inspiring conversation. ConstructionPodcast RIB offers innovative software solutions to help construction professionals streamline their workflows and improve project delivery. Visit their website to learn more: https://www.rib-software.com/en/ Ask us about our special offer for listeners!
• EP 156 | About Leading an Indigenous Construction Business 01.12.2024 53мин

  #THROWBACK Transforming the Construction Diversity: A Conversation with Michael Manikas Join Mick  he sits down with Michael Manikas, the General Manager of DLG Shape, to discuss the future of the construction industry.  What can you learn from this episode? 🚀 How to create an inclusive business?. How does the Surveyor roles evolves over time Building high-performing teams:** Strategies for fostering collaboration and innovation. * **The power of mentorship and leadership:** Inspiring the next generation of construction professionals.  Tune in to this insightful conversation. #ConstructionCareers #BuildingTheFuture #TheTakeOffPodcast #QuantitySurveying #IndigenousConstruction #Leadership #CareerAdvice #Podcast #ConstructionPodcast This episode is proudly sponsored by RIB Software. RIB offers innovative software solutions to help construction professionals streamline their workflows and improve project delivery. Visit their website to learn more: [https://www.rib-software.com/en/](https://www.rib-software.com/en/) Ask us about our special offer for listeners!
• EP 155 | From Outsider to Construction Business Owner with Richard Austin from OMNII 25.11.2024 46мин

  Join Mick Donaghy as he sits down with Richard Austin, CEO of OMNI, to discuss his inspiring journey into the construction industry. In this episode, Richard shares his insights on: Adapting to a new industry: Learn how Richard transitioned from a non-traditional background to a successful career in construction. The importance of leadership and communication: Discover the key qualities that make effective leaders in the construction industry. Navigating the challenges and opportunities in the construction market: Gain valuable insights into the current state of the industry and future trends. Building strong relationships and partnerships: Learn how to network effectively and collaborate with industry professionals. Tune in to this insightful conversation. #ConstructionCareers #BuildingTheFuture #TheTakeOffPodcast #ConstructionIndustry #Leadership #CareerAdvice #Podcast #ConstructionPodcast This episode is proudly sponsored by RIB Software. RIB offers innovative software solutions to help construction professionals streamline their workflows and improve project delivery. Visit their website to learn more: https://www.rib-software.com/en/ Ask us about our special offer for listeners!