As a property developer that invests in and creates places for belonging, we’re all about reactivating spaces and allowing neighbourhoods to really thrive. The key to delivering on that mission is having the right people on board. At every level of our business, our people are committed to using care and creativity to build what matters now and for the future.
In this “Meet the team” series, we’re putting our people front and centre to understand the unique experience and expertise they bring to the Views team. This month, we’re speaking to our Senior Quantity Surveyor, Iain Taylor.
Tell us about your role at Views
One of the things I enjoy most about my role is that no two days are ever the same.
Alongside my team, I manage the commercial side of our developments from the initial tender through to appointing subcontractors, procuring materials and managing project costs. I also report those costs to the directors and work closely with the wider team to make sure we’re delivering the best possible value.
More recently, I’ve become involved in pre-construction too, helping shape specifications, selecting materials and working alongside construction to decide how we’ll build each development.
I love the role I get to play in the delivery of something that adds values to communities. I want to be able to visit one of our developments years from now and know I played a part in delivering a place that people are proud to call home.
What qualities make a good Quantity Surveyor?
Curiosity is a big one.
Construction is a huge industry, but it’s also a very small one. Somebody always knows the answer, so if you don’t know something, ask. There are no silly questions if it helps you learn.
Attention to detail is also a must have. We deal with figures every day and if you’re not accurate with them, problems will be waiting down the line. Whether it’s a specification, tender analysis or project costs, taking the time to get things right first time makes life much easier throughout the project life cycle.
Tell us about your career before joining Views
I’ve worked in construction since I was 16, so I’ve experienced a lot of different parts of the industry.
I’ve worked for local authorities, professional quantity surveying practices, mechanical and electrical contractors and housebuilders. For ten years, I also ran my own business with my father, who was an architect. We developed houses together, and because it was our own company, I was involved in everything from the commercial side through to getting my hands dirty on site.
That kind of experience is priceless. It taught me a huge amount and confirmed that housebuilding was where I wanted to focus my career.
I joined Views two years ago because the company’s ethos resonated with me. It’s a business where your ideas are heard and where you can genuinely influence the way things are done. We’ve built the commercial function from the ground up, and while it’s been challenging, it’s also been incredibly rewarding.
What makes Views different?
The teamwork stands out straight away.
Everyone is willing to help each other and share their knowledge. If someone comes across a challenge, there’s always somebody in the business who can offer advice or another way of looking at it.
I also really value the culture. The leadership team knows where they want to take the business, and everyone here wants to be part of that journey.
That sense of fairness extends beyond the business too. Building trust with our subcontractors and suppliers is really important to me. If you treat people fairly and pay them properly for good work, you build relationships that benefit everyone involved and ultimately help us deliver better developments.
How do you bring the Views values into your work?
Be disciplined
Attention to detail is essential in commercial management. Taking the time to check your work properly means everyone can have confidence in the information you’re providing.
Growth mindset
I’m always looking for different ways to achieve the same outcome. If we can deliver the same quality while creating better value, that’s a win for everyone.
Open minded
There’s rarely only one solution. Being open to different approaches helps us make better decisions and continually improve what we deliver.
Own it
I believe in taking responsibility for your work. If your name’s attached to something, you should stand behind it and take pride in delivering it well.
Be respectful
Everybody works differently. Respecting those differences and working together as a team is what allows us to achieve the best results.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
I’ve always enjoyed keeping active and, even as I approach 60, I’m still playing rugby. A particular highlight of that is playing with (and even against) my son.
Outside of that, my wife and I spend as much time as we can travelling around the UK in our campervan with our Irish Setter. We love exploring new places, getting out for walks and runs, and making the most of the countryside that’s right on our doorstep.
Finally, I’m about to become a grandparent for the first time so I’m really looking forward to all the joy that brings.