Welcome to our In Focus series, where we shine a light on our Project Management team around the country. This week we learn a little more about Neil Watson, Project Director in Project Management.
- What is your current role and main responsibilities?
I am a Project Director within the Queensland Project Management team, responsible for managing all aspects on the various projects I am lucky to be involved in, as well as mentoring staff and business development. - Tell us a little bit about your career?
After school I worked as a labourer for a small residential builder, however I was far more interested in the larger and more challenging projects. Whilst studying Construction Management I was also working for a large Tier One Contractor in South Africa. When my wife and I decided to move permanently to Australia in 2011 there was very limited opportunities post GFC, so I was keen to take any opportunity that was available. My first job in Australia was working as a Quantity Surveyor (which was definitely not for me) however I soon changed to Project Management, as this line of work was far more suited to what I was used to in South Africa. The change from working with a large Tier One Contractor to Project Management was fortunately just by chance, however I have not looked back since the change. I have been with Savills for six years and have loved every minute of it. - What has been your hardest career decision?
Initially leaving South Africa where I worked for one of the largest Contractors in Africa (not just South Africa) and where there was an abundance of opportunity and room to rapidly move through the ranks. In hindsight this was also one of the best decisions we made. - What do you love most about your job?
The feeling of accomplishment and helping others when a project is finished. - What motivates you?
Besides my family, being able to make a difference in someone’s life – could be a client, staff member or a complete stranger - What makes a great Project Director?
Having the ability to listen, remain calm and offer direction when needed. - How can clients, consultants and contractors work together better?
Remembering we are all working towards the same goal and just by communicating better. Use the phone/face to face conversations more and less emails. - What are some of the trends you are seeing in the industry?
Flexible working arrangements, digital AV technology for presentations and just various technological improvements that assist in doing things smarter and better. - What are three words that describe you?
Honest, sincere, loyal and grateful (sorry used four) - How do you manage stakeholders?
Understanding the audience is key and what their motivations are for the project. - What do you do to keep learning and growing in your career?
I was always told to be a sponge and absorb knowledge as we are never too old or young to learn. - What advice would you give to someone starting in the industry?
Never be afraid to fail or have a go at something. Like anything in life, we only learn from our mistakes. There are no stupid questions, the only stupid question is the one you never asked. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the various challenges. - What advice would you give to someone wanting to get in to Project Management?
Project Management is a very people and process driven line of work including solving problems. Show interest in the people you work with, plan as much as possible and learn to adapt to change to the situation that presents itself. - What do you do in your leisure time to de-stress?
Play golf, plenty of BBQ’s and watching live sport. - What is the single most important quality you need to possess to be in this industry?
An open mind
Learn more about Savills Project Management services.