The technical compliance manager from Rooff shares his views, motivations and ambitions
What made you choose construction as a career? What else would you have done?
Before pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering in Nigeria, I wasn’t entirely sure of the direction I wanted to take. What helped clarify my thinking was my father, who was working in the industry at the time as a project manager across road and building construction. That early exposure to the field gradually shaped my perspective and, combined with the strong career prospects the construction industry offered, it gave me the confidence to commit to my decision.
After graduating, I spent a year as a graduate highway engineer with Setraco before moving to the UK to study for a Masters in Construction Project Management at Anglia Ruskin University.
The programme revealed how construction management bridges technical knowledge and people management, something that immediately resonated with me. Its emphasis on teamwork and collaboration played to my strengths, and it was an experience I thoroughly enjoyed. On completing the course, I was fortunate to land a graduate role with Rooff.
If I hadn’t chosen construction, I would likely have pursued a profession focused on advocacy, such as charity work, politics, or law.
Tell us about your Tomorrow’s Leaders (TL) role. What motivates you to do it?
Joining the CIOB Tomorrow’s Leaders has been a transformative experience over the past two years. It provided a platform to connect with a community that mirrors my professional values and aspirations, while opening countless doors for my career. Since joining, I have progressed from a TL Champion to a TL Representative and EDI Ambassador for the Chelmsford hub. My motivation has evolved; it is no longer just about my own growth, but about empowering others and influencing positive, meaningful decisions within the industry.
What are your career goals?
My goal is to make a tangible, positive impact wherever I find myself. I am currently inspired by strong leadership, a privilege I experience firsthand working with the senior leadership team at Rooff. Their example has reinforced my desire to step into greater leadership responsibilities.
What change would you like to see happen in the industry?
I would like to see a much stronger synergy between industry and academia. We need to ensure that the next generation is fully equipped with the right knowledge and opportunities to hit the ground running from day one. Also, there has been a significant legislative and cultural change in the industry post-Grenfell, I would like to see government roll out more standardised templates and guidance on Gateway prerequisites to help the industry avoid the bottleneck delays.
How do you spend your free time?
When I’m not working, I enjoy watching football and actively working to improve my public speaking skills. I am also deeply passionate about giving back, and I spend much of my free time volunteering with my family’s charity: https://www.danielosaremenakhilelefoundation.com/
