We are delighted to join our Senior Surveyor, Nigel Stephens, in celebrations today as he reaches his 20-year anniversary at Rund.

Having worked in the construction industry for over 25 years for contractors, clients, and consultancies, Nigel began his career as a site engineer before adapting his skillset across quantity surveying, building surveying, contract administration and Employer's Agent functions. Nigel joined Rund in 2004 and has since been proud to work across numerous building types including housing, hotels, commercial premises and community facilities throughout his time with us.

We sat with Nigel to reflect on his time at Rund and how the industry – and business – has changed across the past 20 years:

1. What has been your most memorable moment during your 20 years with the company?
It was fantastic to be able to work on the design and construction of Bay House School’s new sports centre in Gosport. In addition to being a very interesting and challenging project, it was also the school my two children attended at the time – so there was a lot of personal satisfaction to see that completed. 

2. How has your role evolved since you first started here?
When I joined Rund in 2004, initially as a building surveyor, it was only a small practice. At the time, the company was expanding its portfolio of work with housing associations and because of this, there was a growing need for skilled Employer’s Agents. As the company grew, it was necessary for job roles to become more specialised and throughout this growth period, I moved predominantly into the Employer’s Agent role with housing associations which is where my responsibilities remain to date. 

3. What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen in the company over the past 20 years?
When I started, Rund was just a small practice operating from an upstairs room above a shop in Locks Heath, with around 12 employees in total at the time. I believe we’re now at 7 or 8 times this number and spread across four UK offices – so seeing this evolution over the years has been quite a sight.  

4. What advice would you give to someone just starting their career here?
Make the most of the opportunities presented to you and maintain variety in your work. 

5. What aspect of your work are you most proud of?
The country desperately needs affordable housing, with this issue becoming more prevalent as the years go by. I am incredibly proud to have played my small part in the fruition of this through my role at Rund. 

Another aspect that springs to mind is my work on the Velmore Community Centre, which is located just around the corner from our Southampton office and involved the conversion of an old church into a much-needed community venue complete with a sustainable food-growing project for local residents.  

6. What has made you stay with Rund for 20 years?
There are always great people in the office to work with and numerous clients I enjoy working with. I also remain appreciative of the work/life balance opportunities and variety of local work that Rund offers. 

Congratulations again to Nigel on this significant milestone.