Project Overview
The John Bradfield Centre was designed to encourage collaborative working and innovation through its use of open plan offices and communal networking areas.
Designed by London-based architects Aukett Swanke, this three-storey state-of-the-art building covers 4,000 sq.m.
Bradfield Centre was designed with its surrounding environment in mind, curved to match the geometry of an adjacent lake.
The Building is named in honour of Sir John Bradfield, a Senior Bursar at Trinity College who was instrumental in the creation of the Science Park.
Internally, the facility provides 70 glazed office pods, a 100-seat auditorium, café, retail units, meeting rooms and large breakout areas.
Core Team
Carl Bennett
Board Director
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.
Tom Fenner
Project Manager
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.
Simon Morrall
Commercial Manager
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.
Josh Goodwin
Design Manager
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.
Jonathan Richardson
M&E Manager
After completing his A-Levels in Nottingham, Jonathan pursued an engineering apprenticeship at Leeds College of Building. This block-release programme integrated theoretical study with hands-on experience, enhancing his technical skills and problem-solving abilities. During his apprenticeship, he worked with a national MEP contractor, which gave him valuable industry exposure but ultimately highlighted his preference for a more collaborative and people-focused work environment.
A significant shift in Jonathan’s career occurred when his mentor invited him to join a regional family-owned MEP contractor in Nottingham. The role suited his collaborative working style, but the company later faced financial challenges during a recession, prompting him to explore new opportunities.
Having already collaborated with SDC as a subcontractor, Jonathan’s skills drew the attention of the company’s M&E Director. After his former employer’s closure, he joined SDC and was soon entrusted with leading its newly created M&E self-delivery department. Over 18 months, he assembled a team of professionals with subcontractor expertise, building a department now comprising 20 members, including trainees and project managers. This team operates with a focus on technical excellence and practical problem-solving.
In 2016, as Jonathan’s professional responsibilities grew alongside his young family, he shared his concerns with the company. In response, the company supported his relocation closer to its base, allowing him to achieve a better work-life balance. This positive change strengthened his dedication to the company and further enhanced his contribution.
Jonathan became a Director in January 2024. In this role, he is responsible for project delivery, tendering, preconstruction, and sustainability efforts, alongside overseeing the MEP department. His contributions have been integral to the successful delivery of complex projects in sectors such as Formula One, including work with clients like Aston Martin and Red Bull. He values the variety and problem-solving aspects of his role and is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within SDC.
Raj Parmar
Second Stage Leader
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.
