Gavin Lane

Role: Assistant Quantity Surveyor

Sector: Transportation

Myself
Born in 1983, I live in High Wycombe and have worked for Schofield Lothian since joining the company after completing my degree in 2003. I’m a very active person and enjoy all sporting activities. I’ve played football semi professionally for a local team since 2002. I also enjoy running and I’m planning to run a half marathon in 2008 and would one day like to run the London Marathon.

I love travel and I’ve recently returned from backpacking around Thailand, Australia, New Zealand and America. Schofield’s made this possible, generously allowing me to have a 6-month sabbatical to travel.

My goal is to become a Chartered Surveyor and Schofield’s actively support and encourage me to achieve this. They enrolled me on a part time Master’s course at London South Bank University studying Quantity Surveying and assisted me with time for study leave along with the cost of travel and course books.

My motivation for joining Schofield Lothian was the fact that they operate in a wide range of sectors, which provides me with the opportunity to gain experience and knowledge across various construction disciplines as opposed to solely focusing on one particular sector.

My Role
I am based in the core business group within Schofield Lothian and have recently started a new assignment working for a leading highways contractor who is undertaking a 4-year programme of Highway Improvement Works throughout Essex. The county has been divided into two different areas for the successful running of the project of which I am situated in the ‘O Area’ which covers Mid and East Essex.

My Work
On my current assignment I am responsible for the production of payment requests and final accounts to be submitted to the client. I also check and certifying all subcontract invoices and aid in the commercial management of direct and subcontract labour. This role requires you to be organised, a good communicator and to have a good understanding of the schedule of rates and item coverage. I work closely with the site agents and contracts manager to ensure that all task costs and variations are successfully applied for. We work closely with both the client and subcontractors to help create a positive relationship and aid to the smooth running of the project.

Even though my assignment client does not directly employ me this does not reduce the level of my professionalism in my work. I am in fact very eager to work hard, not only to progress my own personal development but also to impress the client and to help generate a positive reputation for Schofield’s and myself.

I enjoy working for Schofield Lothian, as they have been very supportive in my professional development putting me through university, but also providing a range of CPD courses throughout the year.