Own The Build

C-Link
  • 3.0 (1)
  • Management
  • Updated Weekly

Own the Build is the podcast for Quantity Surveyors and Commercial Directors who want to sharpen their commercial edge and lead with confidence. Hosted by Paul Heming, former Commercial leader and now co-founder of C-Link, each week’s conversation dives into the realities of modern commercial management — from procurement and contracts to digital transformation and leadership in construction. Through honest discussions with industry leaders, forensic planners, and forward-thinking QSs, Paul explores how the best commercial teams deliver profit, performance, and project certainty in a changing industry. If you’re serious about mastering the commercial side of construction — this is where you build your advantage.

  1. 5d ago

    Practice the Contract, Protect the Relationship: The Art of Commercial Leadership (EP 276)

    In this episode, Paul is joined by Mark Holden-Smith, Chartered Quantity Surveyor, Registered Adjudicator, Registered Arbitrator and Director of Holden Smith Consultancy, for a deep dive into one of construction's most misunderstood topics: Why do so many final accounts end in dispute? Having progressed from labourer and plasterer to Managing Director before specialising in claims, dispute resolution and adjudication, Mark brings a unique perspective from every corner of the industry. The conversation explores why difficult final accounts are rarely caused by the final account itself. Instead, the root cause is often found months or even years earlier — in misunderstood contract terms, ambiguous documentation, and a failure to properly administer the contract from day one. Paul and Mark discuss:  why most disputes originate during procurement and contract formation;  the importance of understanding what you've actually signed up to;  why "being contractual" shouldn't be viewed as a negative;  the delicate balance between practising the contract and maintaining relationships;  how leverage is created through strong contractual positioning; and  the habits that separate commercial professionals who resolve disputes from those who create them. The discussion also challenges common industry behaviours, including the tendency to leave difficult issues unresolved until project closeout — often turning manageable disagreements into major disputes. The message is clear: the best way to resolve a difficult final account is to stop it becoming a difficult final account in the first place. A practical and insightful conversation for QSs, Commercial Managers, Commercial Directors and anyone responsible for protecting commercial outcomes on construction projects. --------------------------------- 📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below: Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success Send us Fan Mail Want to connect with Paul? Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link.  C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient. Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

    Practice the Contract, Protect the Relationship: The Art of Commercial Leadership (EP 276)

  2. Jul 13

    Commercial Director or Freelance? The Career Choice More QSs Are Making (EP 275)

    In this episode, Paul is joined by Bernie Keens, freelance Commercial Manager and Managing QS, to explore a growing trend in the construction industry: Why are experienced QSs choosing freelance over the traditional climb to Commercial Director? Having spent 13 years progressing from Junior QS to Commercial Manager within the same contractor, Bernie recently made the move into freelance commercial management. The conversation explores what drove that decision, what he's learned so far, and whether the industry's traditional career ladder still appeals to experienced commercial professionals. Paul and Bernie discuss:  the realities of moving from QS to people manager and commercial leader;  why mentorship and continuous learning remain critical throughout your career;  the challenge of retaining ambitious Senior QSs in a competitive market;  why some of the industry's best commercial professionals don't actually want management roles; and  how flexibility, autonomy and lifestyle are changing career decisions for a new generation of QSs. The discussion also tackles a broader industry challenge: how contractors attract and retain the commercial talent needed to become the next generation of leadership. The message is clear: career success isn't always about the next job title — it's about finding the role, lifestyle and opportunities that are right for you. A thoughtful conversation for QSs, Commercial Managers and business leaders looking to understand how career aspirations in construction are evolving. --------------------------------- 📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below: Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success Send us Fan Mail Want to connect with Paul? Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link.  C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient. Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

    Commercial Director or Freelance? The Career Choice More QSs Are Making (EP 275)

  3. Jul 6

    Question Time: Is there actually a QS Shortage & Finding the Right Mentor (EP 274)

    In this Own the Build Question Time episode, Paul is joined once again by Chris Barber, COO and Co-Founder of C-Link, to tackle two candid listener questions about career progression, mentorship and the realities of building a successful quantity surveying career.  The first question comes from a construction professional with over 15 years of site experience who is struggling to transition into quantity surveying despite completing an MSc and making hundreds of applications. Paul and Chris explore whether the industry's widely discussed QS shortage really applies to trainees, why site experience is often undervalued, and what practical steps people can take to break into commercial roles. The second question comes from an experienced Senior QS who moved companies for better pay and progression, only to find themselves without the mentors and support network they previously relied on. The discussion focuses on the importance of mentorship at every stage of your career, taking ownership of your development, and how to approach senior leaders when you need more guidance. The conversation covers:  whether construction genuinely invests in developing new QS talent;  the value of operational and site experience in commercial roles;  why mentorship never stops being important;  how to take control of your own career progression; and  the difficult but necessary conversations that often unlock growth. The message throughout is simple: the best careers are rarely built by waiting for opportunities — they're built by actively creating them. A thoughtful episode for aspiring QSs, experienced commercial professionals, and anyone looking to take the next step in their career. --------------------------------- 📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below: Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success Send us Fan Mail Want to connect with Paul? Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link.  C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient. Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

    Question Time: Is there actually a QS Shortage & Finding the Right Mentor (EP 274)

  4. Jun 29

    Own the Build Leadership Series #6: Prabhat Shikotra, Strategy Lead at BAM UK & Ireland (£3.5bn Contractor)

    In the sixth episode of the Own the Build Leadership Series, Paul is joined by Prabhat Shikotra, Strategy Lead at BAM UK & Ireland, to explore a very different path into senior leadership — and why the future of construction will belong to businesses that think long term.  Starting his career in architecture before moving into construction through digital planning and innovation, Prabhat shares how curiosity, creativity and consistently putting his hand up for difficult challenges shaped his progression into one of the UK’s largest contractors. The conversation explores:  why construction struggles to attract young talent despite the impact it has on society;  the importance of working on the business, not just in the business;  how BAM shifted from project-by-project thinking to a disciplined long-term strategy focused on margin, selectivity and client partnerships;  why culture and communication matter more than PowerPoint strategies; and  how technology, AI and workforce planning will shape the next decade of construction leadership. Prabhat also reflects on the habits that separate future leaders from the rest — including visibility, consistency, curiosity and taking ownership when opportunities arise. The episode closes on a powerful leadership message:  don’t chase titles — chase difficult challenges, build trust, and let leadership emerge organically. A fascinating conversation for QSs, commercial professionals and future leaders looking to understand how strategic thinking, innovation and long-term relationships are reshaping construction in 2026 and beyond. --------------------------------- 📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below: Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success Send us Fan Mail Want to connect with Paul? Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link.  C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient. Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

    Own the Build Leadership Series #6: Prabhat Shikotra, Strategy Lead at BAM UK & Ireland (£3.5bn Contractor)

  5. Jun 22

    Advanced Influence: The Leadership Skill Construction Never Teaches (EP 272)

    In this episode, Paul is joined once again by Dave Stitt, leadership coach and former construction director, for a deep and thought-provoking conversation about one of the most misunderstood skills in construction leadership: Influence. Drawing on 50 years in the industry and decades coaching senior leaders across major contractors and infrastructure projects, Dave introduces the core ideas behind his upcoming book, Advanced Influencing for Leaders. The conversation explores why technical competence alone is not enough to lead effectively — and why the best leaders influence through character, beliefs, values and the way they show up every day. Paul and Dave discuss:  why leadership in construction is still largely learned “by accident”;  the hidden beliefs that shape how leaders behave under pressure;  how micromanagement, stress and burnout often stem from limiting belief systems;  the difference between management and genuine leadership influence; and  why inspiration, trust and self-awareness are critical to building high-performing teams. The episode also introduces Dave’s powerful “Be, Do, Have” framework — exploring how who you are as a person ultimately shapes your actions, your influence and your long-term results. The message is clear: great leadership is not just about what you know — it’s about who you are when people experience you. A fascinating episode for QSs, Commercial Directors and aspiring leaders looking to better understand themselves, influence people more effectively, and lead with greater clarity and purpose. --------------------------------- 📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below: Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success Send us Fan Mail Want to connect with Paul? Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link.  C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient. Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

    Advanced Influence: The Leadership Skill Construction Never Teaches (EP 272)

  6. Jun 15

    Why Good QSs Are Walking Away from Permanent Jobs (EP 271)

    In this episode, Paul is joined by Matthew Williams, Senior Consultant at Clear North, for a practical and timely discussion about one of the construction industry’s biggest hidden challenges: How do contractors attract and retain commercial talent when the QS shortage is getting worse — and freelance working is rapidly evolving? Matt works exclusively with quantity surveyors across the freelance market and brings a front-line perspective on what commercial directors, contractors and QSs need to understand about the changing landscape. The conversation explores:  why there are now over 42,000 QS job adverts live in the UK market;  how the industry created a shortage of experienced Senior QSs;  why many contractors still misunderstand IR35 and the freelance market;  the recent tax and liability changes that could reshape contractor hiring strategies; and  why more experienced QSs are choosing freelance work over traditional career paths. Paul and Matt also discuss the wider implications for the industry — from burnout and retention issues to the growing tension between short-term project pressures and long-term talent development. The episode closes with a clear message:  contractors that adapt fastest to flexible commercial resourcing will gain access to the strongest talent in the market. A practical, honest discussion for Commercial Directors, QSs and business leaders trying to navigate the reality of construction’s commercial talent crisis in 2026. --------------------------------- 📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below: Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success Send us Fan Mail Want to connect with Paul? Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link.  C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient. Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

    Why Good QSs Are Walking Away from Permanent Jobs (EP 271)

  7. Jun 8

    From Gun QS to Commercial Leader: The Habits That Matter Most - Question Time (EP 270)

    In this Own the Build Question Time episode, Paul is joined once again by Chris Barber, COO and Co-Founder of C-Link, to answer listener questions sparked by the recent Leadership Series featuring some of the UK construction industry’s leading Commercial Directors.  The conversation explores the consistent themes emerging from those leadership interviews — and what they reveal about how strong commercial leaders are actually built. Paul and Chris discuss:  why becoming a “gun QS” still matters before stepping into leadership;  the importance of exposure, reps and difficult projects early in your career;  how mentors and advocates often shape progression more than qualifications;  why good commercial leaders create clear frameworks and guardrails for their teams; and  how culture, payment practices and communication directly impact supply chain relationships. The episode also tackles:  simplifying contract administration at project level;  how to reduce adversarial behaviours between contractors and subcontractors; and  managing relationships on projects where commercial pressure is intense. The underlying message is clear: great commercial leadership is built through consistency, ownership, empathy and experience under pressure. A practical and honest conversation for QSs, Commercial Managers and aspiring leaders looking to accelerate their development and build stronger teams. --------------------------------- 📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below: Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success Send us Fan Mail Want to connect with Paul? Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link.  C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient. Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

    From Gun QS to Commercial Leader: The Habits That Matter Most - Question Time (EP 270)

  8. Jun 1

    Why Standard Contracts Fail on Data Centres (And What Needs to Change) (EP 269)

    In this episode, Paul is joined by Alex Kozikowska, solicitor at Vinci, to explore a fast-growing but often misunderstood area of construction: Why data centre projects break traditional contract thinking. With experience across contractors, consultants and in-house legal teams, Alex brings a practical perspective on how these highly complex, MEP-driven projects are exposing the limitations of standard forms like JCT, NEC and even FIDIC. The conversation unpacks what actually makes data centres different:  why they are engineering-led, not building-led, with MEP dominating the scope;  how design never truly stops evolving, driven by fast-moving technology;  the impact of global procurement on programme, risk and delivery; and  why traditional assumptions around fixed scope, price and responsibility simply don’t hold. Paul and Alex also explore the consequences of getting it wrong — from endless variations and programme delays to misallocated risk that no party can realistically control. Most importantly, the episode looks forward:  how contracts must adapt to allow for design evolution and uncertainty;  why commissioning should sit at the centre of contract structure; and  the growing need for new, fit-for-purpose contract models tailored to data centre delivery. The message is clear:  data centres aren’t just bigger projects — they’re fundamentally different projects, and the contracts need to catch up. A timely and insightful episode for QSs, Commercial Directors and anyone involved in complex, high-value infrastructure — particularly as demand for data centres continues to accelerate globally. --------------------------------- 📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below: Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success Send us Fan Mail Want to connect with Paul? Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link.  C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient. Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.

    Why Standard Contracts Fail on Data Centres (And What Needs to Change) (EP 269)
See All (285)

About

Own the Build is the podcast for Quantity Surveyors and Commercial Directors who want to sharpen their commercial edge and lead with confidence. Hosted by Paul Heming, former Commercial leader and now co-founder of C-Link, each week’s conversation dives into the realities of modern commercial management — from procurement and contracts to digital transformation and leadership in construction. Through honest discussions with industry leaders, forensic planners, and forward-thinking QSs, Paul explores how the best commercial teams deliver profit, performance, and project certainty in a changing industry. If you’re serious about mastering the commercial side of construction — this is where you build your advantage.

Information

  • Creator
    C-Link
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    285
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Own The Build
  • Show Website
    Own The Build

You Might Also Like