Sushil Patel MCIOB, associate director at WT Partnership, begins his committee role in July. He tells Construction Management about his involvement with CIOB, his work and career journey

What prompted you to get involved with CIOB locally?

It was a desire to play a more active role in shaping the built environment here in Cambridge. It’s a unique place with exciting challenges, and I want to help drive positive, professional change where I can. Becoming chartered with CIOB was a proud moment, and I realised I could be doing more to utilise that membership not just for my own development, but to support the wider industry. Getting involved locally felt like the right way to contribute, connect with others and add value to the community I work in.

What are you currently working on? What challenges and opportunities is it presenting?

I’m currently working in programme and project management with two major clients. For Royal Mail, I’ve supported their national fleet decarbonisation programme and, more recently, I’ve been working with a global tech company on its building operating systems to ensure new builds and FM upgrades meet its smart‑building compliance standards. The main challenges are communication across large frameworks, maintaining strong governance and keeping all stakeholders consistently informed – but these also create opportunities to streamline processes, strengthen collaboration and add real value to each programme.

Tell us about has your career journey: highs and lows?

My career journey has taken me from starting out as a document controller to becoming an associate director in project and programme management, giving me a front‑row view of how much the construction sector has evolved. One of the biggest highs has been gaining my chartered status with CIOB; it’s a major milestone and a real validation of my commitment to professional project management.

There have been lows as well, particularly being made redundant during both recessions. Those experiences were challenging, but they’ve made me far more resilient, adaptable and focused. Overall, the combination of progression, setbacks and achievements has shaped the way I lead projects today and strengthened my drive to contribute positively to the built environment.

Next, I’ll be stepping into the role of chair of the Cambridge Hub in July, something I’m genuinely proud of. I believe I may be the first Asian chair in the hub’s history, which makes the achievement even more meaningful.

Looking ahead, mentoring is a key priority for me. I want to support emerging professionals and help strengthen the next generation of project managers and construction leaders. I’m also keen to champion innovation within the sector, particularly around smarter, more sustainable ways of delivering projects. My aim is to use my position as hub chair to encourage fresh thinking, collaboration and positive change across the Cambridge built environment.