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Day in the life - George Ramsden

George Ramsden, one of our Senior Quantity Surveyors based out of Sydney, is the focus of our latest day in the life piece.

George is in his late 20s and moved to Australia from the UK with Systech in August 2022 to pursue his dreams of the Australian life. He has over 12 years' experience and provides clients with commercial support on large civils projects.

What is your typical day?

My typical day includes the assessment and notification of sub-contractor payments and variations plus managing the package forecasts. I always have to be prepared for additional tasks including the procurement of urgent subcontracts to support the project, and also train more junior staff for the client.

I regularly get out to site to view the progress and to discuss any issues with the delivery team. This allows me to offer my support whilst understanding the current risks to the project.

What are the challenges?

My challenges are generally with the amount of work that I have to manage, I currently look after 35 subcontract packages. To mitigate the risks of claims and disputes, I must be highly organised to meet dates that actions have to be completed by and ensure that I am spending adequate time on each activity and assessment, to ensure the quality of my work. However, I am used to this pace of work and prefer it as the days go quickly, allowing for rapid progression in my role.

What are the interesting aspects of your work?

One of the main interesting aspects of my work is the exposure I have to significant projects across the world. I feel I have a lot of variety in my days which keeps my interest high, and I am certainly never bored. Now working for Systech, I have the opportunity to incorporate travel into my work, by being able to move across Australia working for the biggest clients and projects.

What words of advice would you offer someone thinking of working for Systech?

My first piece of advice would be to go for it! I have had a great experience so far and enjoy the future prospects available to me.

My second would be to have an open mind and take the opportunities that arise. I started with Systech in Melbourne, and was then offered a move to Sydney. The experience and networking in these two fabulous locations has been fantastic.

"...the experience, networking and further opportunities that have come as a result are fantastic."

What training and support has Systech given you?

I am striving to become a member of the RICS and have received valuable assistance in reviewing my work and submissions so far, as well as practicing for potential interview scenarios.

Systech has connected me with an APC RICS representative who is available to answer any queries or offer guidance as needed.

My manager is also highly knowledgeable and approachable, and I can count on his support if I require assistance in my daily tasks.

What is the culture like?

The culture with both Systech and the clients is excellent.

Everyone I have met so far is very friendly, inviting and approachable.

Systech has regular social events in the city to get the teams together to enjoy a well-deserved night out or by arranging a football event where the Sydney and Melbourne staff can meet a couple of times a year for a bit of competition!

The clients are also very friendly and supportive.

How has working for Systech helped you achieve your career goals?

Systech has given me the opportunity to work on projects where I have been able to demonstrate my abilities and develop my skills and experience, recognising this straight away and supporting me with the appropriate progression in my career into a more senior position.

Systech’s model allows for decisions to be made and implemented quickly and by the management overseeing our work, which I find excellent in facilitating career goals.

What makes working for Systech different from the competition?

The main differences which attracted me to working for Systech are the countries in which they are active. A part of my career goals is to eventually work across the world and Systech is happy to facilitate this when the time is right for us both. I would also say that the approachableness and support from the business is up there with the best; I feel happy, respected and valued in less than a year with the business.

What has been your greatest achievement working for Systech?

In the time I have been here, I have been able to demonstrate my skills and abilities, which include both commercial activities and training of junior staff. This has been recognised and allowed me to progress to a more senior position.

Tell us about a project where you have learnt a key lesson?

I have learnt the importance of dedication and hard work and how consistency pays off.

I have also seen the importance of following the correct procedures and standards in my profession, and how not doing so can cause significant issues to a project.