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
What it is and how to use it.
Investors in People: CIOB achieves gold
Reflecting a commitment to employees and members.
Scratching beneath the surface; a guide to selection.
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.
UK gov apprenticeship funding from April 2024
Brief summary the policy paper updated in March.
For the World Autism Awareness Month of April.
70+ experts appointed to public sector fire safety framework
The Fire Safety (FS2) Framework from LHC Procurement.
Project and programme management codes of practice
CIOB publications for built environment professionals.
The ECA Industry Awards 2024 now open !
Recognising the best in the electrotechnical industry.
Sustainable development concepts decade by decade.
The regenerative structural engineer
A call for design that will repair the natural world.
Buildings that mimic the restorative aspects found in nature.
CIAT publishes Principal Designer Competency Framework
For those considering applying for registration as a PD.
BSRIA Building Reg's guidance: The second staircase
An overview focusing on aspects which most affect the building services industry.
Design codes and pattern books
Harmonious proportions and golden sections.
Introducing or next Guest Editor Arun Baybars
Practising architect and design panel review member.