Construction Project Management Overseas : Have fun and work abroad
Author: Nick Smith: Executive Officer ICPMA and Past President 2017-9
Contact [email protected]
There was a knock at my door in November 2005. “Come work in Oman,” said the headhunter, “you’ll love it.” By the eve of my 49th birthday the following February I was playing my part in a brand new mega-project, building a massive new neighbourhood on 2.6 sq km of beachfront in the sultanate. Prior to this, apart from a little exposure to US working practice, I’d spent my whole professional life in my homeland of England, involved in mixed-use and housing developments. As an urban designer the thought of something much bigger in an unknown land was too exciting to turn down, so off I went with my slightly unconvinced wife and youngest daughter.
Our experience was a revelation and changed our lives forever, for the better. I’d never before had to try to manage such complexity with colleagues from so many nationalities and cultures. Strange working practices were the norm, and the place was hot enough to boil an egg outside pretty much all year. The secret was to use the best of everything, not necessarily the stuff I was used to, but finding the optimum planning tools, delivery methods and problem-solvers from all around the world. Communication was key.
We were in Oman for 8 years and I still visit to consult. We became much more international in our outlook and appreciative of the needs of others, and what works and what doesn’t. We’re so thankful that the chance came our way: it was simply the best. I wrote about my experiences in a book called “Oman, My Dear” published in 2020 and available through Amazon.
All aspects of the design, project management and construction industries generate opportunities to work overseas. I met my friends at ICPMA because I made that step. Our association boasts many who have experience in international markets away from home and have become more effective professionals by virtue of that. For the young and talented, the world awaits. We all know how nice it is to have an enjoyable holiday in another country. But the experience of living, working and succeeding some place else is priceless. Take it if you can.
--ICPMA 18:13, 15 Mar 2022 (BST)
Featured articles and news
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
The Grenfell Tower fire, eight years on
A time to pause and reflect as Dubai tower block fire reported just before anniversary.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.
The benefits of engaging with insulation manufacturers
When considering ground floor constructions.
Lighting Industry endorses Blueprint for Electrification
The Lighting Industry Association fully supports the ECA Blueprint as a timely, urgent call to action.
BSRIA Sentinel Clerk of Works Training Case Study
Strengthening expertise to enhance service delivery with integrated cutting-edge industry knowledge.
Impact report from the Supply Chain Sustainability School
Free sustainability skills, training and support delivered to thousands of UK companies to help cut carbon.
The Building Safety Forum at the Installershow 2025
With speakers confirmed for 24 June as part of Building Safety Week.
The UK’s largest air pollution campaign.
Future Homes Standard, now includes solar, but what else?
Will the new standard, due to in the Autumn, go far enough in terms of performance ?
BSRIA Briefing: Cleaner Air, Better tomorrow
A look back at issues relating to inside and outside air quality, discussed during the BSRIA briefing in 2023.
Restoring Abbotsford's hothouse
Bringing the writer Walter Scott's garden to life.
Reflections on the spending review with CIAT.
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.