Meet Our Team

The fit out and construction experts creating infinite possibilities for our clients.

People collaborating at a meeting

Every member of the 8build team is driven by a collective ambition — to ensure you enjoy the process of working with us as much as the transformed spaces we create for you.

To ensure you receive a first-class service we only hire the best in the business. From our offices in London, Cambridge and Singapore, we’ve created a global team of industry-leading talent and experience. People with remarkable integrity, who have the drive to exceed expectations and take pride in the quality of the work they deliver.

Our Team

Divisional Director

Andrew Dixon

London, United Kingdom

I’m proud of my team and the projects we deliver for our clients as a division, with our focus on new build and refurbishment within the commercial, life science and education sectors. As Divisional Director I am responsible for resourcing each project effectively, overseeing all aspects, including construction, financial, health and safety, and ensuring each project is delivered to the highest standards for the satisfaction of our clients.

“Having spent all of my working life as part of Commando Forces, I needed to find a career that was fulfilling and rewarding. Steve Oakford took time to read my CV and speak to me, resulting in a job offer and career development that has maintained my self-esteem — where perhaps a different path would have led me to a different place.”

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Managing Director

Andy Marr

Asia

I am the Managing Director of our operations in Asia. Joining 8build in 2005 as one of the original 8 founders I set up our APAC regional head office in Singapore in 2010 and our office in Hong Kong in 2017 to deliver fit out projects for like-minded clients and consultants. In response to growing opportunities in the region, we have developed strategic partnerships in Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. We benefit from having a tremendous team of local and regional staff, who all have extensive experience of working on high-quality complex fit out and refurbishment projects across Asia.

“Heading up our operations in the Asia Pacific region, in a company I truly believe in and with dynamic people I really enjoy working with, is a very rewarding position. Our international presence represents exciting opportunities for 8build, I’m really inspired by the infinite possibilities we can create for our clients.”

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Director

Andy Tooley

London, United Kingdom

I was among the eight individuals that created 8build at its beginning, becoming a Board Director in 2012. In this role, I oversee one of our construction divisions and have also taken on responsibility for our IT requirements — aiding the company’s growth and success by bringing leadership skills, extensive industry knowledge, team spirit and dedication to the business.

“As for my favourite part of the role, it has without a doubt been team building. Helping bring really good people together into high functioning, successful project teams, and creating friends, not just colleagues, along the way is my abiding memory of my time at 8build to date.”

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Director

Carl Raison

London, United Kingdom

I joined the board to oversee one of our construction divisions in 2018, after working for 8build for 11 years, and have since become the Director in charge of health & safety, a key driver of mine. Throughout my career, I have been privileged to work alongside a range of skilful teams to deliver some of the most stunning and elaborate projects across London and the South East. The growth of 8build and its continued strength is something I am very proud to be a part of.

“Dynamic, energetic, personal – 8build staff at all levels are individuals that are highly skilled and ambitious, but always willing to support their colleagues. I love working collaboratively to achieve a common goal and enjoy the thrill of exceeding all expectations. I encourage this attitude in every 8builder!”

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Divisional Director

Chris Lawrence

London, United Kingdom

I’m one of the Divisional Directors here at 8build, and within our division, our forte is delivering developer-led fit out and refurbishment projects across a variety of sectors, including commercial and aviation. I am truly passionate about creating amazing spaces for people to experience and enjoy. I am very proud of my team, what we stand for and our reputation for high quality and customer care.

“The built environment, and the impact it has on our planet, is important to me. I am a champion for sustainable development and will work hard to ensure we minimise the footprint our projects leave, to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.”

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Head of Legal

Christine Whittaker

London, United Kingdom

Having decided to pursue a career as a solicitor, I did my training at a City firm with a very strong Construction department. I spent 6 months in that department and immediately felt at home there. Beyond the fact that I love contract law (which forms the base of what construction lawyers do), I just clicked with the people that I had to deal with on a day to day basis: our clients, the counterparties, opposing lawyers etc. We all know that often the hardest parts of our jobs are the people we have to deal with, and to me, the construction industry seemed to generally attract people that I wanted to spend time with. Taking up my role at 8build is genuinely a career goal come true. I have known for a long time that I wanted to move in house. I wanted to be on the front line of the construction “magic”; to expand my legal skillset to a commercial environment.

“Find your place and focus on your own goals; pursue them unapologetically!”

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Divisional Director

Danny Price

London, United Kingdom

From a young age, I knew I wanted a career in construction. I am now a Divisional Director assisting in delivering fit out and refurbishment projects across a variety of sectors including commercial and aviation. I have experience in various forms of procurement and contract types and endeavour to create a partnered and collaborative approach with the client team to offer the best value, without compromising on quality.

“We are hardworking individuals who love what we do. We are passionate about delivering high-quality projects in a safe way. We have a lot of fun along the way too! I get incredible satisfaction to see how happy our employers are when they see their finished project.”

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Divisional Director

Darren Stones

London, United Kingdom

As Divisional Director, I am responsible for all aspects of the division — from finding new clients and delivering an exemplary product to providing value for money and ensuring the most stringent safety objectives are met. I’m passionate about my responsibility for 8build’s projects and in providing the best service for our clients, while providing commercial support throughout the entire lifecycle of a project. Bringing across my experience from multiple sectors in the industry, I help the division deliver outstanding historic, commercial, arts & leisure and education refurbishments and fit outs.

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Planning Director

Dave Horace

London, United Kingdom

I work closely with all aspects of the business from pre-construction and PCSAs to project delivery; working hand in glove with all the 8build and client teams, delivering all parts of planning and monitoring. Throughout my career I have successfully delivered all projects on time, with a unified client project journey accommodating many project types and requirements in all JCT formats, NEC3 & NEC4.

“I go the extra mile to ensure your project runs smoothly, accommodating key drivers, physical and logistical constraints, maintaining as a first principle the agreed critical path and completion dates. This extensive rounded knowledge has gravitated to developing and managing complex construction programmes at multiple layers, implementing robust planning strategies and project controls.”

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Accounts Director

David Shanahan

London, United Kingdom

As manager of the accounts team, I have the overall responsibility for the accuracy and control of our accounts systems and procedures. As a team, we strengthen and maintain current business through constant communication, dependable invoice delivery and building trusting relationships. I take pride in being organised and able to multitask to ensure all customers’ needs are met in a fulfilling way, without compromising efficiency.

“I have seen the company grow from strength to strength, with me growing with it. That strength can be attributed to the people that work for it. Everyone’s hard work and effort makes 8build what it is. The better we do individually, the greater we are collectively.”

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Finance & HR Director

Eliana Riwanto

Asia

Since joining in 2014 as Finance & HR Director for our operations in Asia, I understand the importance of great teamwork, being collaborative and people centric. Flexible to adapt and adopt, I embrace the use of digitalisation to optimise the accuracy, efficiency and resilience of our processes. With origins in Indonesia and fluent speaking in Bahasa, as a Board Director I support and represent 8build with our opportunities in Indonesia.

“I enjoy working with our 8builders who are highly skilled, motivated and passionate about creating a positive working environment, and increasing our effectiveness in everything that we do.”

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Construction Director

Gilbert Nisperos

Asia

The opportunity of working on various high-end fit out projects with 8build since joining in 2016 has provided me with a great foundation. From this experience, I’m able to lead my division to take on highly-complex and specialist projects for clients in Singapore and overseas. Originally from the Philippines, and speaking multiple local dialects, I am excited about the opportunities to deliver outstanding work in the archipelago.

“I thrive in a fast-paced work environment with a focus on maintaining positive and strong relationships that enables the excellent service we offer to our customers.”

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Head of Business Administration and HR

Helen Goodman

London, United Kingdom

I’m in charge of helping our employees be the best kind of person they can be. From their first welcome to their ongoing personal development, my team and I work to strengthen and retain in-house talent. We manage our internal training system to ensure that all staff are well equipped to provide a seamless service that brings your vision to life.

“The 8build team all carry the visions and values with them in everything they do, whether this is recruitment, networking, bid submissions or project delivery, and I think this is shown by the strong sense of synergy and cohesion across the whole company.”

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Senior Proposals Manager

Holly Brunton

London, United Kingdom

I oversee the proposal team as the Senior Pre-construction Manager. From the designing of brochures, adverts and 8build branded goodies, to the management, design and submission of innovative PQQs, tenders and post tender presentations. There is huge variety and opportunities within my role, it’s fast-paced, high-pressure and great fun. My key focus is on understanding the client’s goals and developing a bespoke win strategy that achieves their principles every time.

“I enjoy the fact that various members of the 8build team unite together on every submission, bringing their specialities and experiences into it. Without this, we would not be able to provide a coordinated bid with a strongly defined win strategy. It definitely helps that I work alongside a team of impressive creatives, which allows 8build to bring a flare to our documents and branding that I haven’t experienced in other companies before.”

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New Business Director

Ian Woollison

London & Cambridge, United Kingdom

I bring a proven track record of successful project deliveries in both London and Cambridge, where I have collaborated closely with clients and professional teams. In my role as the New Business Director, I serve as the central liaison for clients, fostering robust communication channels and nurturing relationships to enhance the customer experience. With a keen eye on client needs, I collaborate closely with internal teams to craft tailored solutions that resonate with potential partners. My adept management of client expectations ensures smooth sailing, swiftly addressing any concerns to uphold an exceptional customer journey.

‘As the New Business Director, my focus is on discovering new, exciting, and interesting projects, and ensuring they are delivered to the highest standards. My goal is to exceed client expectations at the end of every project.’

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Divisional Director

James Friel

London, United Kingdom

I am one of the Divisional Director’s successfully delivering Major Projects across sectors such as Arts & Leisure, Residential and Commercial. I am very proud of my team, what we stand for, and our reputation for high quality and customer care. We don’t just focus on delivering incredible spaces — we care about how we get there.

“My goal is to offer support and guidance to my teammates, empowering them to deliver exceptional buildings for our customers.”

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Estimating and Supply Chain Director

Jamie Taylor

London, United Kingdom

I’m committed to building a strong and reliable supply chain to support 8build’s ever-growing business. I work closely with our existing supply chain members to maintain relationships and look to build new ones with those who can support us moving forward. I’m also responsible for the estimating department, securing future projects for the business. I pride myself on having rigorous standards, attention to detail and submitting thorough and competitive tender submissions.

“8build continuously strives to deliver the highest quality projects on time for their clients. I love working closely with the supply chain to ensure that they are treated fairly and rewarded for the support and good work they carry out for the business.”

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Strategic Sales and Marketing Director

Kayleigh Oakford

London, United Kingdom

I look after all pre-construction activities and create winning work strategies, working alongside operational and technical teams as a central part of our management team. It’s the team’s goal to ensure that we’re consistently winning work and keeping us all busy.

“I’m responsible for ensuring our brand promise and customer value propositions are considered every step of the way, from the first communication to developing new relationships and maintaining long-lasting ones. Thanks to my wide input across the business at all levels, I’m able to see our customer experience journey and strive to exceed expectations at every stage.”

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Commercial Director

Kong Chung Fung

Asia

Joining 8build in 2012 has provided me with an exciting career path, within a company making a difference in the market. As Commercial Director, I am responsible for all pre-construction tendering activities and financial management duties. Fluent speaking in Cantonese and Mandarin, as a Board Director I liaise with our Hong Kong office. Receiving the Youth Entrepreneurship Outstanding Award from the Hong Kong Singapore Business Association in 2019 has supported my ambitions in both locations.

“My key focus is to create a positive solution for our clients and our business through innovative ideas in Singapore and beyond.”

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Finance & HR Director

Lesley Hammond

London, United Kingdom

I am 8build’s Financial and HR Director and sit on the Board of Directors. After graduating from university, I qualified as a Chartered Accountant and began my rewarding career in construction. I bring humour, tolerance and the ability to communicate effectively at all levels, whilst helping to add a different perspective, balance and cohesion to the core team. One of my more recent gratifying achievements was being announced as a finalist for Women in Construction 2018.

“Here at 8build, we’re inclusive, supportive, caring and kind. We’ve created a culture of tolerance and empathy towards all stakeholders, against the backdrop of professionalism and high standards all around.”

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Divisional Director

Nick Cornish

London, United Kingdom

Our division undertakes the major projects across 8build, within sectors such as arts & leisure, residential and commercial. We understand the complexities of transforming spaces, and my experience delivering at all levels provides an understanding of every aspect of project delivery. Having an engineering background also allows me to assist my team in the planning and coordination of the services works with all construction activities.

“I get a lot of personal satisfaction from supporting the development of individuals and our teams. Being able to support their growth and assist them in accomplishing their goals is my favourite part of my role. We place a high emphasis on supporting people’s personal development and nurturing the team dynamic.”

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Director

Nigel Bellamy

London, United Kingdom

I am a founding Board Director of 8build, and together with my colleagues I have thoroughly enjoyed creating and growing a first-class, friendly, and successful construction organisation. I’m qualified as a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and due to my vast experience, I oversee one of our project divisions, along with being the conduit for our Asia business.

“Through hard work, determination and shared purpose with these colleagues I have created lasting relationships that continue to take 8build from strength to strength. I thrive in my role through collective encouragement and excitement for the thrill of shared success.”

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Head of 3D Visualisation

Olivier Desrois

London, United Kingdom

I look after in-house 3D visualisation within the proposal team, supporting marketing, pre-construction and construction stages in a variety of different ways. I aspire to show your vision emerge the way you want it to. 3D visualisation plays an important role in demonstrating how we will guarantee your aims and objectives are met. This could be producing concept photomontages that give a view of how the site will appear during and after the construction period, to keep the public considered at all times, or, producing 3D models to demonstrate how we will ensure the quality of build needed to achieve specified dB ratings, for those clients with highly-sensitive environments.

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Director

Paul Norman

London, United Kingdom

Having been a shareholder of the business from the outset and a main board member since 2014, I have been fortunate enough to witness and enjoy the incredible success of the company. Being responsible for both the commercial activities of the company and the Director responsible for pre-construction allows me to be involved from the very beginning, helping instil infinite possibilities for every project.

“If we can support each other and make a positive impact upon each other and the world around us, we have achieved great things. It is our responsibility to leave the world a better place than we found it. Sometimes that is hard, and circumstances may be against us, but I have never worked anywhere before where I thought this was as possible as at 8build. There are a lot of enthusiastic 8builders at the start of their careers here and we must do everything to encourage them on their journey.”

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Commercial Director

Paul West

London, United Kingdom

As Commercial Director, I am practised and proficient in understanding and complying with systems, processes, and expectations. I’m responsible for the contractual undertakings of the business, as well as being instrumental in the development and roll out of the business ERP system.  This means that I can ensure your project is being managed to the standard that both we and you expect. From a financial point of view, a key aspiration of mine is to provide a scheme that offers value for money, and by proactively managing costs and risks we achieve this.

“Working for 8build offered me an opportunity to become involved with a company that offers something fresh and new in the construction industry, along with developing my career.”

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Divisional Director

Richard McCracken

London, United Kingdom

Ultimately, I am responsible for the projects delivered within my division and am more than ably supported by a fantastic team. Our collective efforts go into providing excellent service while producing a tremendous end-product. My division concentrates on historic, commercial, arts & leisure and education refurbishments and fit outs, covering everything from ‘light touch’ projects to those with heavier structural alterations.

“The culture at 8build is first class. As we work in divisions, we are not always as close to colleagues in other divisions as is ideal but the exposure to the teams working at HQ has consistently been a pleasure. Helpful, skilled, dedicated, supportive and aspirational are a good choice of adjectives for the various teams I encounter every week. This, in turn, builds a strong culture where support and assistance are the norm.”

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Divisional Director

Rob Strange

London, United Kingdom

Within our division, I specialise in delivering commercial refurbishments and fit outs. I’m passionate about the built environment and encourage my team to share my enthusiasm for delivering high-quality spaces, on time and safely. I believe that a collaborative approach towards problem solving and risk management helps to create positive, long-lasting working relationships, not only throughout the project’s lifecycle but hopefully long into the future too.

“I have broad experience in the fit-out market and have worked on several successful prestigious projects, with a keen emphasis on programme delivery, whilst keeping the calibre of installation to the highest of levels.”

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Marketing and Compliance Manager

Robyn Hammond

London, United Kingdom

Here at 8build, I’m involved in marketing strategy, brand development, accreditations and compliance. Our customer experience journey is a main objective of mine, developing robust processes to ensure that we continue to evolve. The construction industry is ever-evolving and it’s part of my responsibility to keep up with innovation. Our accreditations provide the framework and processes by which we ensure the safety of 8builders, sub-contractors and visitors while helping to win and deliver high-quality buildings. Both areas of my role require me to maintain and enforce our procedures, whether these relate to our various ISO systems or our site branding guidelines.

“Going the extra mile is part of our culture that stretches across 8build and beyond — from the way we support our employees to how we give back to the local community. It’s the kind of company that people enjoy working for and I wanted to join to be a valued member of a team with a high level of expertise and work ethic.”

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Head of Health & Safety

Steve Maslin

London, United Kingdom

I have a genuine passion for health & safety excellence and take pride in ensuring that all projects comply with 8build’s health and safety management strategy. I always push for better work safe systems and processes, and enjoy challenging the norm. I’m NEBOSH qualified with vast experience in health & safety, including writing several construction training qualifications for City & Guilds. My motivation is to ensure that we all share the benefits of a healthy and safe workplace.

“My favourite part of the role is being able to provide advice to all staff at all levels and use my safety and construction knowledge to develop a workable solution. To have a role where you can have a positive impact is very important to me.”

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Director

Steve Oakford

London, United Kingdom

In 2005, having thoroughly enjoyed the process of growing a business, I joined some like-minded colleagues and decided to do it all again to form 8build. As a founding Board Director of 8build, I head up our fit out division, along with overseeing the accreditations we have in place.

“I strive for change in the industry, I wanted to develop a great team of people, all committed to the vision of a leading construction company founded on strong ethics and corporate social responsibility.”

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Divisional Director

Steve Wilkinson

London, United Kingdom

Our division undertakes the major projects across 8build, within sectors such as arts & leisure, residential and commercial. We understand the complexities of transforming spaces, and my experience delivering at all levels provides an understanding of every aspect of project delivery. Having an engineering background also allows me to assist my team in the planning and coordination of the services works with all construction activities.

“I love that people can live, work, learn and play every day in the projects we deliver. The pride of being part of something great brings me the job satisfaction I need.”

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