Joshua McCormack is a Senior Quantity Surveyor working from ALA’s Warrington Office. Josh joined ALA in December 2022, after nearly 10 years with Lendlease.
He has extensive experience with traditional building projects – including major projects Potato Wharf in Manchester and the Elephant and Castle Regeneration Scheme. Josh is a RICS Chartered QS who recently completed his RICS Diploma in Adjudication. He is due to start a He is also an accredited RICS Counsellor and heavily involved in training and mentoring ALA staff through the RICS process.
Read more about Josh’s experiences working with ALA and his interests below…
What do you enjoy most about your line of work?
I enjoy finding solutions to the problems presented. I have come from an extensive Main Contractor background, whilst my experience at ALA is in dispute resolution. This change in career path has changed my focus on my day-to-day requirements. I enjoy getting into the detail and finding angles to work on, so what may be a problem initially, can be turned around and presented as an opportunity.
Out of work, what do you do for fun?
I go to the gym, get my steps in and have recently started to play golf. I also watch Liverpool…although at times it is debatable whether this can be classed as fun .
What is the best part about working for ALA?
Without sounding too cliché, the people in this environment create a relaxed but focused atmosphere and will help you become the best you can be. I find ALA encouraging in progressing your career and expanding knowledge through formal qualifications or strengthening blind spots through internal training or general discussions. From the top down, everyone has a minute for you and wants you to succeed.
What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?
Changing careers from a long-term position in a Tier 1 Main Contractor to joining ALA focusing on dispute resolution. It was intimidating getting out of my comfort zone, but it was a great opportunity to pursue my career plan which I didn’t want to miss.
What is your favourite work-related achievement?
I have worked on some interesting schemes with great teams, have become chartered and have gained great qualifications on my journey.
I’ve found it an interesting journey so far; it’s hard to pinpoint a favourite!
What is your favourite non-work-related achievement?
Like many at ALA, I am coming to the end of renovating my house. It has been hard, but it’s bearing the fruits now.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
To have started the role of an Adjudicator and have achieved my MSc or LLM whilst continuing my path in quantity surveying and dispute resolution at ALA.
What is most important to you as a person?
My family and friends and their well-being.
How are you finding life at ALA on a day-to-day basis?
It’s great. The work can be demanding, but it expands my experience and enhances my skills. I enjoy the challenges it presents. I find life at ALA straightforward, where the team is approachable and keen to help and learn.
What is your favourite film, song and food?
Film – Pulp Fiction
Song – If we’re talking karaoke, then it’s ‘The Wonder of You’ by Elvis.
Food – Anything Italian
We are actively recruiting. If you are interested in discussing opportunities to join ALA or are considering a career in Quantity Surveying, please email [email protected] or look at our Current Vacancies.
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