CICES and APM agree to collaborate to provide mutual benefits

Civil engineering surveying and project management professions to gain from newly signed ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ The Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Association for Project Management (APM), to facilitate collaboration between the two organisations that will benefit professionals in both specialisms. This MoU provides a basis for joint action in areas of common interest to those in the project management and civil engineering surveying industries, as well as the general public. These include continuing professional development, education, member services, conferences and training. In addition to encouraging ongoing constructive dialogue between the two organisations, the MOU will foster increased cooperation on matters of interest and future collaboration on areas such as policy initiatives. The MoU was signed by APM’s chief executive, Professor Adam Boddison OBE, and CICES chief executive, Simon Hamlyn. Adam Boddison said: ‘The Association for Project Management is committed to creating a world in which all projects succeed – because when projects succeed, society benefits. ‘The best way to realise this vision is through collaboration with organisations that share similar values and aspirations, so I’m delighted that APM is partnering with CICES. ‘Our partnership will bring together the best…

HiRO strengthens US Presence with acquisition of DeltaMed Solutions

HiRO, a leading global clinical research organization (CRO), has announced the successful acquisition of DeltaMed Solutions, a US-based CRO with a strong reputation. This strategic move marks HiRO’s third CRO acquisition since its founding in 2020 and further expands its global footprint. With established operations in the US, Ireland, Asia, and Oceania, HiRO offers comprehensive clinical research solutions across the globe. The acquisition of DeltaMed Solutions bolsters HiRO’s US presence and strengthens its position as a one-stop shop for pharmaceutical and biotech companies. Headquartered in New Jersey, DeltaMed Solutions boasts a team of seasoned professionals with extensive experience serving mid-sized and large pharmaceutical and biotech companies. Their expertise spans data management, biostatistics, programming, real-world evidence solutions, pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics analysis, regulatory affairs, and medical affairs. DeltaMed Solutions is renowned for its flexible service models and unwavering commitment to quality, earning high praise from clients and partners alike. With global operations and integrated capabilities, HiRO provides a full range of cross-border solutions and services to its clients, including early pre-clinical strategic planning, clinical trial design, regulatory affairs, pharmacovigilance, statistics, data management, end-to-end project management, and clinical and medical monitoring services. The integration of DeltaMed Solutions into HiRO creates a powerhouse in the CRO…

OWC and Bridge Wind join forces to bolster UK offshore wind investment landscape

Renewable energy consultancy OWC and Bridge Wind Management, a leader in renewable energy project management, have announced a strategic alliance to collaborate on offshore wind asset and operational management. This partnership aims to empower more informed decision-making for UK investors in the offshore wind sector. “We have been collaborating with Bridge to drive maximum value out of offshore wind and other offshore renewable technologies. says John MacAskill, Global Managing Director for Renewables, ABL Group. “As offshore wind reaches a new level of maturity, we wish to provide even more comprehensive support to the investment landscape together with Bridge’s specialist financial and commercial expertise.” OWC boasts a global reputation as a renewable energy consultancy, specialising in services like technical due diligence, owner’s engineering, technical studies, and independent engineering. This expertise supports the grid-scale development of onshore and offshore renewable energy technologies. Bridge Wind Management brings over 30 years of experience in renewable energy management. The firm has a proven track record serving some of the world’s largest investors, owners, and operators within the global renewable energy infrastructure sector. “We see this collaboration with OWC as an opportunity to leverage our respective areas of expertise and client bases, to maximise value from…

UK Telecoms Provider ULC Achieves Efficiency Gains with Sitetracker Platform

United Living Connected (ULC), a leading telecoms infrastructure provider in the UK, has reported significant efficiency improvements following the implementation of Sitetracker‘s deployment operations management software. ULC, a subsidiary of United Living Group, adopted Sitetracker as part of its digital transformation journey. Within just three months of using Sitetracker, ULC has seen a reduction in critical project milestone delays and faster project handover times. Formerly known as Great British Communications, ULC leverages Sitetracker to accelerate the deployment of digital infrastructure projects across the region, including a recent major contract with Cornerstone, the UK’s largest mobile infrastructure services provider. “The implementation process was smooth, well-organised and collaborative,” said James Parker, Head of Project Management Office for ULC. “These metrics demonstrate a measurable efficiency improvement in our ability to serve the UK’s largest mobile providers and other customers.” Sitetracker’s cloud-based platform offers ULC a centralised data hub for all its wireless customers. This streamlines business operations across various stages, from site acquisition and planning to design, construction, and maintenance. “Digital connectivity in rural and underserved areas is essential to bridging the digital divide and creating a more equitable and fairer world,” said Giuseppe Incitti, CEO, Sitetracker. “Those doing that work, like United…

Tech Firm offers solution to engineer shortage with New Outsourced Design Team Service

Sondrel (AIM: SND), a leading provider of complex chips for major tech brands, has launched a new Outsourced Design Teams (ODT) service to address the growing challenge of engineer shortages. The service offers businesses a flexible solution, allowing them to access skilled engineers for periods ranging from weeks to months, with team sizes tailored to specific project needs. “Finding skilled design and verification engineers is incredibly tough right now,” said Paul Martin, Director of Field Engineering and Customer Technology at Sondrel. “These shortages can put entire chip projects at risk of delays, leading to significant financial consequences. Hiring through agencies involves assembling and managing an unproven team, which takes time and resources.” Sondrel’s ODT service offers a simpler approach. Paul Martin, Director of Field Engineering and Customer Technology at Sondrel, explained, “It’s really difficult finding skilled engineers at the moment especially for Design and Verification. A whole chip project could be at risk of falling behind schedule due to a skills shortage that could have severe financial repercussions. You could use an agency and assemble a team but that needs a lot of people and management time as they are an unproven team. We have much simpler option for customers….

AECOM wins major contract to support Southern Water’s infrastructure plans

AECOM (NYSE: ACM) has secured a significant appointment with Southern Water, a major UK water utility. This agreement will see AECOM provide crucial asset management, program and project management services for Southern Water’s Professional Services Framework. AECOM’s role encompasses two key areas within the Framework. This appointment aligns with Southern Water’s most ambitious business plan to date, strategically positioning them for the upcoming UK’s Asset Management Plan Period 8 (AMP8) from 2025-2030. “We’re excited to support Southern Water’s next generation of infrastructure investments, extending our role as a key enabler of utilities’ expected substantial growth in AMP8 investments,” said Beverley Stinson, chief executive of AECOM’s global Water business. “Through our number one-ranked global Water capabilities, we’re well positioned to deliver sustainable solutions that help Southern Water achieve its business, customer and environmental outcomes in the AMP8 period and beyond.” Southern Water’s business plan prioritises key areas outlined in AMP8, including improved efficiency, supply chain risk mitigation, water resilience, wastewater treatment, customer service, and environmental protection. AECOM’s comprehensive support will encompass strategy & planning, asset information management with data visualisation and digital tools, asset intelligence through modelling and geospatial analysis, along with technical services and system monitoring. Under the Framework’s Lot…

Procore Unveils AI-Powered Construction Tech Advancements at Innovation Summit 2024

Procore Technologies (NYSE: PCOR), a global leader in construction management software, kicked off its Innovation Summit 2024 today, showcasing a suite of new product advancements designed to revolutionise collaboration throughout the construction lifecycle. For the past two decades, Procore has built a construction platform, serving customers worldwide from pre-construction to project completion. Now, the company is doubling down on its commitment to guide the industry through rapid technological advancements. This year’s Innovation Summit unveils major updates to Procore’s core offerings in project management, quality control, safety, and construction financials. These advancements leverage the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and data to empower users and drive business success. Here are some key highlights from the announced product updates: Find out more here

Jacobs and VolkerStevin Team Up for Major UK Water Infrastructure Project

A joint venture between Jacobs (NYSE:J) and VolkerStevin, known as C2V, has been appointed as the Construction Delivery Partner (CDP) for United Utilities, one of the UK’s largest water companies. This significant win marks the start of a major collaboration to deliver United Utilities’ most ambitious capital investment program to date. C2V will provide a comprehensive suite of services, encompassing project management, design, construction, and commissioning for complex capital projects. These projects will span various areas of water infrastructure, including water and wastewater treatment plants, pumping stations, reservoirs, bioresources, and energy solutions. The appointment of C2V forms part of a wider specialist framework established by United Utilities. All participating organisations will work collaboratively with United Utilities to deliver their planned £3 billion capital program from 2025 to 2030. An optional five-year extension is also possible, extending the program to 2035. “The water sector is facing unprecedented environmental challenges. This framework positions United Utilities to deliver its largest ever program to advance environmental performance and critical water services in North West England,” said Jacobs Senior Vice President Kate Kenny. “With our 20+ years’ experience working in the region, we can further contribute vital water and wastewater infrastructure solutions that deliver stronger, greener…

Sitemark’s new Project Manager, Lucy Blunt, brings experience and leadership to the team

Sitemark is delighted to welcome Lucy Blunt as its newest Project Manager. Lucy brings a wealth of experience from her work in the Higher Education sector, which she’s already putting to great use with Sitemark’s newest client, the largest provider of student accommodation. Lucy says, ‘I’m excited to join Sitemark’s innovative team. Sitemark are one of the UK’s leading facilities management specialists so it’s great to learn from them as well as bringing my own skills and experience to help drive their success’. Lucy’s career in Facilities Management spans two decades and includes work in sectors such as the NHS, local authority, education, and housing. She takes great pride in motivating and influencing teams, which she says is the cornerstone of her success. Mike Boxall, Managing Director of Sitemark is delighted with the latest recruit, ‘Lucy is a highly driven and strong leader with a proven track record of growing teams. She’s an asset to the Sitemark team and we look forward to seeing her grow with us.’ Sitemark are always on the lookout for talented Facilities Management professionals to join its growing team. To find out more, head to www.sitemark.co.uk

JLL bolsters UK Data Centre Expertise with new appointment

JLL has appointed Sam Hill as its new Project & Development Services (PDS) Lead for Data Centres in the UK. This strategic move strengthens JLL’s data centre services portfolio and reflects the booming sector within the UK real estate market. In his new role, Sam will spearhead PDS projects for data centres across the UK, collaborating closely with established JLL teams in both PDS and data centres. His arrival follows a series of high-level appointments, signifying JLL’s commitment to expanding its data centre services and delivering exceptional value to investors, owners, and occupiers in this rapidly growing field. Sam brings a wealth of industry experience to the table, having previously managed all aspects of engineering, construction, and design deliverables for data centres at Arcadis, where he led a key EMEA account. Kevin Williams, Head of Project & Developments Services, UK & Ireland, JLL, said: “In a world increasingly fueled by the internet, data, and artificial intelligence, demand is rising for the real estate that makes it all happen. In UK, the data centre sector is experiencing incredible growth, which is driving demand for data centre design, construction and operations. Sam’s strong track record in delivering projects in this sector combined…