As an independent cost consultancy, Core Five is dedicated to the succession of the next generation. Tom Buckley, having joined Core Five as an Assistant Surveyor in 2015 and recently being promoted to Partner, is fine example of our investment in the development of our team. Find out what Tom has to say about his career at Core Five to date.

How did you start your career in construction?

I had a passion for architecture from a young age and viewed Quantity Surveying as a great gateway in to the construction industry. I had a fairly unique first taste of construction whilst shadowing my dad on a large scale construction project in Cairo- not quite the same conditions as London but it was a great experience and one I will always remember. I undertook a year placement within a housing association and then moved on to a Main Contractor for 2 years. I learnt a lot in both those roles, helping me to gain a more rounded view of the industry as a whole.

How has your career at Core Five progressed? 

I joined Core Five in early 2015 and sat my APC a few years after that. Over the eight years, I have progressed from Assistant Surveyor to Partner and have seen the company grow from strength to strength in that period to 160 employees. I am proud to have been a part of that growth and the fact we have maintained the same values and ethos throughout.

With the exception of being promoted to Partner, what are you most proud of during your time at Core Five?

Being a part of the successful growth of the business, particularly seeing younger members of the team now advance through the same route as I did and being able to provide the same support and guidance I was afforded. It’s a great feeling to say I am the first to progress from Assistant to Partner but even better to be in a position to support others through that journey, as I am sure I wont be the last.

What qualities do you believe are important in order to be an inspiring role model for others?

I’m not sure I see myself as a role model or inspiring for that matter… but I just ensure I support the team and provide as much helpful advice and direction as I can. Having been through the challenges faced at each level definitely helps to be more approachable and makes the guidance slightly more pertinent!

Describe your approach to leading a project team?

It can be relatively easy (at times!) as we’ve created such a good culture and work ethic within the group that everyone stands up and takes responsibility and pride in their work. All I can do is maintain that ethos and set the precedent for the team to follow.

What advice would you give to your younger self or someone aspiring to be a Partner at Core Five?

Put a bet on Leicester winning the premier league…! Jokes aside, I’m a big fan of putting your hand up in the tricky situations. Some of my first projects at Core Five were the most difficult and daunting, but I still use the lessons learnt from those projects every day.