Experience the key to excellent service

So often in the construction industry, a particular situation or issue can arise which proves problematic to the successful completion of a project or slow down the construction process. It might be a contractual dispute or a discussion about how resources are being deployed on a particular project. In such scenarios, the value of bringing in some external support, an alternative point of view and a fresh perspective simply cannot be underestimated. Especially when that support comes in the form of a vastly experienced construction consultant who has significant industry experience gained in senior managerial roles within the activities of construction contract and resource management consultancy, management training, building, civil engineering and specialist contracting.

Keith Milne – company name MKM – is ideally placed to provide this support. Keith has worked in a variety of senior roles in the construction industry and since 1991 has used this experience as MKM to provide an invaluable consultancy service to clients large and small. His roles in the past have included management responsibilities for a variety of organisations during which time he has led or supported projects for a varying portfolio of public and private sector clients in the UK, and overseas within the Middle East, Cyprus, Sweden and Mauritius. He has also been heavily involved in the preparation and presentation of management /practitioner related training and professional development lectures/ seminars/workshops within the UK and overseas and as a visiting lecturer at universities in UK and overseas.

Keith provides proactive professional support to clients, with his services tailored specifically to the needs of the organisation, project or individuals with whom he is working. “The activities I get involved with for clients are most varied,” says Keith. “They might involve using my experience to identify and mitigate risk in contracting activities, looking at issues such as resource provision, contractual issues, administrative conduct, financial exposures and recovery. I also work with clients to support them in developing their business activity, services and market penetration in the UK & overseas. “ Another example of my client involvements is that I sit on the management board of one of my clients and give guidance on all their current projects and tendering activities, looking at risk identification and construction management strategies on certain activities they are seeking to be involved in or are currently carrying out.” “ I’m also very much involved in providing continuing professional development, and training opportunities for managers with construction activity responsibilities. I generally do that in-house for a wide variety of clients within the UK, and overseas. “ It’s important to emphasise, however, that client confidentiality is paramount. A lot of my work is discrete and people don’t know I’m in place with clients on certain issues. In essence, I am facilitator, a go-between, a devil’s advocate for many clients, lending an experienced ear as and when they require it.”

Keith’s knowledge of the construction industry means he is also ideally equipped to discuss current topical issues within the industry, hosting seminars, workshops and management training services for construction companies and trade associations. “ I’m increasingly working with clients on fostering and brokering overseas trade co-operation, agreements, and joint ventures for organisations with construction related activities,” says Keith. “There are some really significant overseas opportunities for clients to exploit right now.”