Working in the Architect's playground

Interview with Bill, M & E Manager who has recently arrived in Dubai

Having recently completed a project in Japan, Bill has recently taken up an assignment working in Dubai for a large multi national Joint Venture contractor on a huge mixed use development. We asked Bill to describe the lifestyle available to a construction ex-pat;

Q. Where have you worked overseas and what was your last assignment?

A. I've worked all over the world including South Africa, Botswana, Singapore, Malaysia, Borneo, Philippines, Australia, Japan and now Dubai.

My last project was a major investment bank fit out and relocation project at their new Asian Pacific headquarters in Tokyo, Japan

Q. Why did you decide to start working overseas?

A. Combination of high rates of income tax back home in Ireland, and the prospect of a better quality of lifestyle, particularly for my children.

Q. Has the overseas experience lived up to your expectations?

A. Yes, and in many ways exceeded them

Q. What big differences have you found in the local construction industry?

A. In Japan, it was definitely the superior standard of workmanship, discipline and the efficient way things were done.

Japanese companies are meticulous in the planning and execution of work, but cannot handle the changes and variations that a European contractor would take in their stride.

Q. What did you miss most from home?

A. That's easy - Draught Guinness!

Q. What would you do differently next time?

A. Be much better prepared for the Japanese winter!

Q. Outside of work, what was your most memorable experience?

A. The sightseeing and social life of being an ex-pat such as watching the rugby World Cup Final between England and Australia in the Australian Embassy in Tokyo!

Q. How would you describe your experience with Hill McGlynn?

A. My experiences with Hill McGlynn have been excellent. I view them as a thoroughly professional organisation in all aspects of their business.

They have an excellent reputation in the international construction industry, both with clients and candidates, and their follow through is very impressive. Personally I would be reluctant to use the services of any other recruitment consultancy. I may be slightly biased as the above opinion has been formed over a ten year association.