SDC

Adam has been with SDC since 2017 and is a skilled Design Manager who is involved in projects from the tender stage through to completion. Throughout the construction phase, he integrates seamlessly with the project delivery team, driving design information and implementing practical solutions. His expertise has been consistently proven on numerous complex projects, where his attention to detail and ability to collaborate with clients have ensured their expectations are not only met but often surpassed.

Adam has cultivated a celebrated career in construction management, culminating in his appointment as Managing Director in September 2021. His early exposure to the construction industry began with hands-on experience assisting his father in building agricultural structures. Following his GCSEs, Adam launched his own business, focusing on farming construction projects for a year. However, due to a decline in workload, he joined SDC in 1995.

Commencing his tenure as a Trainee Site Engineer, Adam has steadily advanced through a variety of site-based management roles, accumulating a wealth of experience and making substantial contributions to the company’s operations. In his capacity as Managing Director, he now plays a pivotal role in defining SDC’s strategic direction and ensuring the successful delivery of its diverse project portfolio. He also has overall responsibility for Health and Safety, and Quality departments.

Adam has led significant large-scale projects, including the Northampton College Redevelopment which, at the time, was one of the largest contracts in SDC’s history. His leadership on this project earned him recognition as a finalist in the Construction Manager of the Year Awards in 2009. Earlier in his career, Adam also received the Institution of Civil Engineers’ Site Engineer of the Year Award in 1999 for his innovative shuttering system design.

Beyond his project work, Adam has been an active participant in the broader construction industry. As Chair of the Cambridgeshire branch of the Chartered Institute of Building from 2016 to 2019, he promoted collaboration and professional development within the sector. More recently, he served as a trustee of the CFCI for three years. Under Adam’s guidance, SDC continues to advance its long-standing tradition of delivering quality construction projects, supported by a commitment to innovation, excellence, and community engagement.

Andrew has worked at SDC since 1995 and is one of the longest serving members of the company, where he has progressed to Project Commercial Director. He is a valued and trusted member of the team with significant industry experience. Andrew has contributed to a vast range of projects across Oxford and Cambridge, where he is responsible for providing commercial leadership, strategic commercial direction and support to the project team.

Following time spent travelling, Andrew began his professional journey at SDC after returning from Australia. Initially joining as an Assistant Financial Accountant, Andrew quickly demonstrated his commitment, expertise, and meticulous attention to detail. Working alongside the former Financial Director, his role evolved significantly, taking on more responsibilities over the years. In 2020, he became a Director, having grown into the role through his experience and understanding of the company’s needs.

At SDC, Andrew focuses on financial operations, including planning, budgeting, and cash flow management. His dedication to forward planning and his rigorous approach to monitoring financial performance are central to maintaining SDC’s resilience in challenging economic climates. He works closely with commercial teams and the other Directors, ensuring projects are monitored and financial practices are efficient.

Over the years, Andrew has seen the finance department expand and modernise, moving from largely manual processes to more streamlined systems. Despite these changes, he remains involved in both the day-to-day operations and the long-term planning for the company.

Andrew is motivated by the sense of responsibility he feels towards the business and its employees. He values SDC’s team-oriented approach and the loyalty of its staff. For him, the company feels like a family, where everyone works together and supports one another. This shared ethos has only grown stronger with the introduction of the Employee Benefit Trust, reinforcing the idea of collective success.

Having been at SDC for over three decades, Andrew sees his role as more than a job. His time at the company reflects his commitment to maintaining its stability and ensuring it continues to thrive for the benefit of everyone involved.

Andy embarked on a career in construction at 18, starting with a carpentry apprenticeship. During three years with local carpentry firms, he gained experience erecting timber frames and honed first and second fix carpentry skills, developing a strong foundation in building finishes and trade collaboration.

In 2008, Andy transitioned to site management, joining SDC Builders Ltd as an Assistant Site Manager while pursuing a part-time Foundation Degree in Construction Management. Working on complex projects valued at up to £20m, he developed skills in logistics, programming, and health and safety. He was promoted to Site Manager in 2010, managing notable projects for clients such as Babraham Bioscience Technologies and the University of Cambridge.

By 2015, Andy had advanced to the roles of Construction Manager and then Contracts Manager, overseeing multiple projects with a combined value of up to £50m. His role expanded to include pre-construction planning, financial oversight, and post-occupancy responsibilities. In 2018, he became a Project Director, contributing to company-wide decision-making before joining SDC’s Board of Directors in 2020.

As a Board Director, Andy oversees the delivery of three or four projects simultaneously, guiding teams through tender preparation, construction, and completion. His extensive experience working on-site enables him to effectively support site staff and gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs. Andy also leads strategic initiatives, mentors staff and manages the key Plant Hire department. Building and maintaining client relationships is a central focus, supporting the company’s high rate of repeat business, which accounts for 80% of turnover.

Ashley began his career after graduating with a degree in Architectural Engineering and Design Management. He has been with SDC since 2019 and has progressed through the ranks from Second Stage Lead to Project Design Manager. It is this experience, coupled with his professionalism and ability to work collaboratively, that make him a key driver for project success. In his currently role, he oversees the successful development of design throughout the tender process and has predominantly worked on projects for the science and technology sector.

Carl’s career in the construction industry began in 2004 when he joined SDC. Starting in a hands-on role, which later became the blueprint for the SDC Management Trainee Scheme, Carl gained extensive experience across various sectors, including gymnasiums, swimming pools, care homes, and large-scale science buildings. His diverse project involvement included Site Management, Contract Management, and project direction, which helped him develop a comprehensive understanding of the construction process.

In the early years, Carl contributed to projects such as the Sharnbrook School science block, Cardington Court care home, and a road project in Solihull. Despite the challenges of tight margins and economic pressure during the recession, he demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills, managing complex logistics and leading teams to deliver projects successfully.

A pivotal moment in Carl’s career came in 2012 when he was appointed Construction Manager for a £20 million project at Admiral Insurance in Newport, Wales. Leading a team to deliver three floors of office space ahead of schedule, the SDC team were recognized with the prestigious Admiral Supplier of the Year award. This success propelled him through further leadership roles, including Contracts Manager and ultimately Board Director.

As a Board Director at SDC, Carl oversees key departments such as pre-construction, sales, estimating, and IT. His strategic input has been instrumental in modernising company operations, particularly through digitising processes and improving internal systems. Known for his methodical approach to project management, Carl ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of clients.

Throughout his career, Carl has maintained a strong commitment to team development and mentorship, fostering an environment of collaboration and growth. His leadership and dedication to SDC’s long-term success have cemented his reputation as a key figure within the company.

Cy is a veteran of the British Army, serving in the Royal Engineers, where he progressed to the role of sergeant. This role saw Cy undertake construction projects across the world, initially as a Plant Operator and then as Operations Manager. This military background is evident in Cy’s current role as head of SDC’s SHEQ department, where he has led significant improvements in safety, health, environment, and quality standards over his tenure.

After completing a BArch (Hons) Architecture at the University of Cambridge, Dan began his career in architecture in London. During his later Part 3 studies, he worked as an Architect for a London-based architecture firm, contributing to a project at Christ Lane in Cambridge with SDC as the Principle Contractor.

In 2010, Dan became the first Architect employed directly by SDC. Dan emersed himself in the interface between consultant and subcontract design management to ensure efficient design delivery, which became a central part of his role.

One of his early projects was at Moulton College, where he worked as a Design Manager on a sports rehabilitation centre, learning to balance design considerations with practical implementation. This led to further schemes, such as his involvement in the University of Cambridge  Sports Centre project which had a complicated roof geometry, necessitating close collaboration with consultants and specialist subcontractor design. It was during this time that Dan formed close partnerships with other members of the SDC team that proved valuable for managing complex projects and delivering results under pressure.

Dan’s work with the University of Cambridge became a defining aspect of his career, with notable projects such as the Maxwell Centre and Judge Business School amongst many others. His background as a Cambridge alumnus has helped foster strong relationships, ensuring that the University receive projects that meet its expectations for quality and functionality.

Known for his problem-solving abilities, Dan frequently tackles architecturally challenging projects. Responsible for the Design department within the company, his approach focuses on planning, collaboration, and ensuring that designs align with the client’s vision. He values the supportive and fair culture at SDC, which has helped cultivate long-term staff loyalty. For Dan, the most rewarding part of his work is seeing the spaces he helps create put to good use and appreciated by clients.

Eddie joined SDC in 2013 and is an accomplished construction professional. He has advanced from Quantity Surveyor to Contract Surveyor and now holds the role of Commercial Manager in the Services department. Eddie manages sub-contractor accounts, coordinates project costs, and oversees self-delivery projects from inception to completion. He has a broad range of experience within different sectors, with projects ranging from the construction of student accommodation to state-of-the-art flexible workspace laboratories.

Elliot joined SDC in 2002 and has progressed to Project Manager, where he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and successful project delivery. Elliot is involved in projects throughout the entirety of their lifecycle and is dedicated to achieving exemplary standards. He has worked on several projects with repeat clients such as Jaguar Land Rover. His communication skills and focus on stakeholder satisfaction consistently drives positive project outcomes.

Francis began his career in 1976 when he joined Llewellyn Construction Ltd as a management trainee. On 14 February 1983, he started with SDC as a Quantity Surveyor, initially working from a small office space at 30 Grove Place, one of several houses the company used as offices at the time. Over the course of four years, Francis contributed to projects for British Leyland and British Rail. By 1987, he had been promoted to Joint Surveying Manager, sharing the running of the department with Alan Angel, before becoming Chief Surveyor in 1989.

In 1991, Francis expanded his role by initiating the Special Projects Division. This initiative aimed to provide clients with a more comprehensive service offering, while generating additional income for SDC. His contributions earned him a place on the Board in 1994. Subsequently, he established Limegrove Supplies, which allowed the company to purchase certain materials at preferential rates and facilitated sales to the public as well as in-house use. In 1999, he was appointed Deputy Managing Director, and in 2004, he became Managing Director, as part of the transition to an Employee Benefit Trust (EBT).

During his tenure as Managing Director, Francis successfully navigated the company through numerous challenges, including the financial demands of the share purchase required to create the EBT and the global economic recession of 2008. Under his leadership, SDC completed several notable projects, resulting in significant growth in both turnover and net worth. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Francis prioritised safety while ensuring operational continuity, allowing the company to continue supporting its clients, including critical medical research facilities.

By 2021, SDC had modernised its infrastructure and strengthened its financial position. In September 2021, Francis transitioned to the role of SDC Chairman, marking a shift in his responsibilities while continuing to play an active role in the company’s strategic direction. His final major initiative as Managing Director was overseeing SDC’s golden jubilee celebrations, which raised more than £110,000 for charity, reflecting the company’s longstanding commitment to community support.

Francis will continue as Chairman of the SDC EBT for the foreseeable future.

Gary started his construction career at 16 as a Trainee Quantity Surveyor, combining hands-on experience with studies at Kettering and Northampton Colleges, where he earned ONC and HNC qualifications. He later obtained a part-time degree from Nottingham Trent University, completing it in five years thanks to his prior qualifications.

In the mid-1980s, Gary worked with a second company, managing projects in Hatfield and Aylesbury, before seeking a role closer to home. Joining SDC in the late 1980s, he progressed from Quantity Surveyor to Senior Quantity Surveyor and then Manager of the Special Projects Division. During the early 1990s recession, Gary played a key role in restructuring the division, which focused on smaller-scale projects. This effort helped position SDC for long-term success in a challenging economic climate.

Appointed to SDC’s Board of Directors in 2003, Gary oversees the Special Projects Division, manages key projects, and contributes to strategic and financial planning. Between 2004 and 2007, he played a role in transitioning SDC to an Employee Benefit Trust (EBT), ensuring stability and employee-centred governance. His leadership alongside the other Board Directors has been pivotal in navigating challenges and ensuring stability.

Gary has fostered enduring relationships with major clients like Jaguar Land Rover and the University of Cambridge, emphasising quality and client satisfaction. Over decades, he has supported SDC’s evolution from a more informal operation to a professional, structured organisation. As the company continues to grow and adapt, he remains committed to supporting its ongoing success and ensuring it is well-positioned to meet future challenges.

Graham is one of SDC’s longest-serving employees, having joined the company in 1981. With over 40 years of experience, his career has evolved significantly, and he now leads the day-to-day operations of the Special Projects division. Since his appointment as Department Manager, his leadership and experience have been key drivers in the continued success and growth of the Special Projects Division

Ian joined SDC in 1996 as a Senior Quantity Surveyor and has since held key leadership roles, including overseeing projects up to £30m, and managing pre-construction from 2019-2023. In 2024, he was appointed Sustainability Manager, where he spearheads initiatives to improve energy efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance environmental performance across our fleet, plant and supply chain. Ian plays a pivotal role in driving SDC’s commitment to advancing sustainability practices and reaching our carbon goals.

Jacquie joined SDC in 2014 and has played a pivotal role in transforming the company’s approach to mental health and diversity. As SDC’s Mental Health and Diversity Manager, she leads a dedicated team of ‘Mental Health Champions’, supporting the well-being of both colleagues and their families. Jacquie also oversees the company’s Diversity Programme, ensuring that every employee — from Site Workers to Board Directors — have access to comprehensive mental health and diversity education, resources, and support.

Josh joined SDC in 2015 after receiving a BSc in Construction Engineering Management from the University of Loughborough. Starting as a Design Coordinator, he quickly showcased his expertise and leadership potential, progressing through various roles over the years. Currently serving as the Head of Design, Josh oversees the Design Department and manages all phases of project design, ensuring the integration of technical and creative solutions. His comprehensive knowledge of construction engineering, coupled with his strategic vision, has been pivotal in delivering high-quality and innovative design solutions across multiple projects.

Martin began his career at SDC in November 1976, joining the company during a period of significant growth. That same year, SDC was officially incorporated in September, marking the acquisition of its new headquarters at 19 Grove Place, Bedford. With an ONC in Business Studies, Martin started in the finance department, contributing to the company’s development.

In 1982, Martin was promoted to Financial Accountant, where he played a crucial role supporting the Financial Director and managing the daily operations of the accounts department. Later that year, he was elevated to Company Accountant, stepping into a leadership role within the organisation.

Martin’s career continued to progress, and in 1987, he was appointed Financial Director and Company Secretary, taking on full responsibility for the finance function across the group. His influence within the company grew further when he was made a director of SDC (Holdings) Ltd in 1991, followed by directorial positions at SDC (Anglia) Ltd in 1994 and SDC (Properties) Ltd in 1997.

From 1997 to 2015, Martin also held the role of Secretary for SDC Builders. In 2005, he joined the Board of Directors for SDC Builders Ltd, around the same time the Employee Benefit Trust (EBT) was established. After almost two decades of service on the board, Martin retired in 2024, leaving a lasting legacy of financial expertise and strategic leadership.

Although retired from the board, Martin remains an active presence at SDC. He continues to serve as a trustee and holds directorial and secretarial roles with The SDC EBT Ltd, SDC (Holdings) Ltd, and SDC (Anglia) Ltd, ensuring his wealth of experience continues to guide the company.

Matt has been a part of SDC since 2007 and is an experienced and adaptable Senior Project Design Manager, well-versed in SDC’s collaborative and solution-driven approach. He actively engages in the pre-construction phase and stays involved throughout the project’s completion. With his broad industry experience, Matt excels at uniting the design development process, collaborating closely with both the client’s team and SDC’s internal design team to ensure the original design vision is preserved.

Mike joined in 2005 and is an accomplished Contracts Manager with decades of experience. Mike is an exemplar of all that SDC stands for; he is fully accustomed to SDC’s collaborative, problem-solving approach and he has a proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects on time and within budget.

Since starting with SDC in 2013, Raj has proven himself to be an accomplished Pre-Construction Manager with a wealth of construction knowledge. Raj’s responsibilities include the overall management of the pre-construction process and assuming the pivotal role of client liaison throughout the whole of the project. With over two decades at the company, Raj is a well-respected member of the team who has worked and a huge variety of projects for a range of sectors including education, leisure, and science and technology.

Sam joined SDC in 2015, and now leads the accounts department, overseeing the preparation and submission of all financial reports. In her role, she oversees the preparation and submission of all financial reports, ensuring that they are accurate, timely, and aligned with company standards. Sam is responsible for providing the board with comprehensive monthly reports and reconciliations, offering valuable insights into the company’s financial status. She also manages the payroll process. Sam’s meticulous approach and deep understanding of financial management are key to ensuring the smooth and efficient running of the company’s financial operation.

Simon is an Estimating Manager at SDC with over 20 years of experience. As an integral member of the site strategy team, his duties and responsibilities include managing the estimating department and preparing estimates and cost planning during the pre-construction and tender phases. For the past decade, he has worked on projects for Trinity College at the Cambridge Science Park, focusing on Science & Technology facilities and complex laboratory refurbishments.

Tom started his career after graduating with a First-Class Degree in Construction Engineering Management from the University of Loughborough. Tom has been with SDC since 2015, where he has progressed to Project Director. Over the years, Tom has gained extensive experience in overseeing large-scale, multifaceted developments, building a solid reputation for successfully delivering complex and high-profile projects. His expertise and leadership have been pivotal in ensuring the seamless execution of projects, earning him the trust and respect of both colleagues and clients alike.

Tony has been a valued member of the SDC team since 1985, and in 1995, he took on the leadership of Limegrove Supplies, overseeing its establishment and growth. With over three decades of industry experience, Tony has developed a deep understanding of the sector and is widely recognised for his expert advice on a wide range of products. Under his leadership, Limegrove Supplies has become known for its commitment to providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service. Tony’s team of knowledgeable and friendly staff are responsible for servicing SDC projects as well as the general public.

Tracy joined SDC in 1989 as a Hire Controller and quickly advanced to the role of Plant Hire Manager, a position she has held for many years. With her extensive expertise in plant equipment, Tracy manages the supply and procurement of everything from drills to mobile cranes and HGV vehicles. She leads a dedicated team while also overseeing accommodation at Caxton, ensuring smooth operations across various areas. Tracy’s vast knowledge and leadership have been integral to the efficient running of SDC’s plant hire and accommodation services.