Ryan Grey is a Senior QS working from ALA’s Warrington Office. Ryan joined ALA in December 2019.
Ryan has experience with traditional building projects – including fit out, scaffolding and building services, as well as working on a variety of complex engineering projects, including waste water treatment plants.
In 2019 he completed his MSc in Commercial Management and Quantity Surveying and is currently working towards his Chartership with RICS.
Coming from a prior successful career in recruitment, Ryan brings a wealth of management and life experience to his role as a Senior Quantity Surveyor.
Read more about Ryan’s experiences working with ALA and his interests below…
What do you enjoy most about your line of work?
I enjoy that I have the chance to work on varied projects. My last 3 projects have included a natural gas pipeline, a restaurant renovation and a gas replacement scheme, working with both the JCT and NEC forms of contract.
Every project faces difficulties, but its being able to successfully navigate out of troubled waters which is rewarding, and also a great learning experience for me as I continue to develop.
Out of work, what do you do for fun?
Before kids I would go out with the lads and socialise or watch/play footy, now I go out drinking occasionally or spend time with my family, whilst trying to hit the gym.
What is the best part about working for ALA?
I work with some great people, who are also very good quantity surveyors. Consultancy work can often leave you feeling isolated, but everyone at ALA is very much for the team and whatever the issue there is always someone who is able to assist.
Also, the commitment to staff progression is an absolute. It seems like all the staff are currently undertaking some sort of qualification or accreditation, including myself where I’m currently putting my online journals together to become chartered through RICS.
What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?
Leaving the safety cushion of recruitment and retraining as a Quantity Surveyor, having to put my self through university to study for a MSc in Quantity Surveying.
I was at Team Leader level whilst in recruitment, earning good bonuses but as a new father, I wanted to be in my children’s lives more, and I found that recruitment was not the career that allowed me to do this, so I made the decision to retrain as a Quantity Surveyor.
What is your favourite work-related achievement?
Definitely achieving a distinction in my Quantity Surveying MSc. When I began my studies I only had a very basic understanding of what quantity surveying is, but I’m very proud that I was able to achieve a distinction.
What is your favourite non-work-related achievement?
I don’t believe I’ve achieved it yet. I’m very ambitious and will keep on pushing for self improvement!
Where do you see yourself in five years?
More experienced and qualified than I am now, and earning more money! I used to chase titles when I was younger, now I’m wise enough to know that titles are not always a reflection of the role I am able to perform.
What is most important to you as a person?
My family. Everything I do is for them.
How are you finding life at ALA on a day-to-day basis?
I really enjoy it. Like any rewarding job it has its challenges. Working for a consultancy, my working life can be heavily influenced by the type of work I have on or the clients I’m working with.
Some of the projects I work on more challenging than the others, but I always remember I won’t learn anything from the easy jobs.
What is your favourite film, song and food?
Favourite Film: The Departed.
Favourite Song: Axwell & Ingrosso: Calling (Lose my Mind).
Favourite Food: Jamaican Jerk Chicken, Rice and Peas, and festivals (Jamaican dumplings).
Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn.
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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