Juan Retief is a Quantity Surveyor with Cleary Doyle. He joined the company in August 2020, having worked for an Irish civil and marine engineering contractor after moving to Ireland from South Africa. He finds Cleary Doyle to be a great place to work because the culture within the company encourages and supports employees to strive for the best.
How did you come to work for Cleary Doyle?
I came to Ireland from South Africa in 2018 to take up a Quantity Surveying position with a civil and marine engineering firm. I joined Cleary Doyle in August 2020.
The quantity surveying processes in South Africa are very similar to Ireland. There are differences in building design, which is directed mainly by climate; South Africa has 90% sun, Ireland, 90% rain.
What qualifications do have you?
I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Quantity Surveying and a Diploma in Construction Project Management, both from the University of Pretoria (South Africa).
I am currently completing my Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland Chartership, which allows me to gain further in-depth knowledge on quantity surveying.
I am currently in my second year studying for an MSc in Building Information Modelling at TU Dublin. BIM expertise is an essential skill for anyone looking to build a sustainable career in the move to a digital construction environment. I receive great support from Cleary Doyle in pursuing this qualification.
What is your job in Cleary Doyle?
I work as part of the quantity surveying team. My specific duties include subcontractor procurement and account management, monthly valuations, variations/change orders, final account preparation etc. Working for Cleary Doyle has already been an enormous boost for my professional development. The company assists employees with ongoing training and encourages everyone to improve themselves through further education.
What type of projects have you been working on recently?
I work on a broad range of project types, including commercial, residential, refurbishments and social housing. I am delighted also to be involved in several design and build projects.
What is it like to work at Cleary Doyle?
As I joined Cleary Doyle during Covid-19, it is difficult to give a good overview of what it would be like to work here in any regular year. From what I have experienced so far, the culture of Cleary Doyle is about maintaining a work environment where everyone is expected to engage in projects and express their view. Cleary Doyle is a very hands-on place to work. We have direct access to the senior leadership team, so decisions get made quickly. The level of engagement and mentorship at Cleary Doyle is a key factor in the success of the business.
Why would you recommend a career in your field of construction?
The construction industry has many different sectors. Anyone who pursues a career in construction will get an opportunity to make a success of it with the ability to learn something new every day. I love that I am constantly engaged in my work and that I can see the contribution I make to the success of projects and the company. I highly recommend a career in construction to anyone who has a passion for the built environment and wants to be challenged in all ways imaginable.