insights Andrew's career: from quantity surveyor to project manager
Andrew Liong is a Project Manager based in Singapore. He joined AtkinsRéalis ’s Engineering, Design & Project Management (EDPM) business to progress in a role and learn new skills through hands-on involvement. During his four-year tenure, Andrew made a career change from quantity surveying to project management, where he continues to upskill to stay sharp. Read on to hear from Andrew why development is so important and his stand-out moments during his career with us.
How did you get into project management?
I started my career as a Quantity Surveyor after graduating from university, briefly working with another company before joining AtkinsRéalis . I was keen on taking on a more active role at work, one that was more challenging and engaging. AtkinsRéalis provides a platform for us to explore opportunities, change career paths and develop capabilities according to our interests. When the opportunity came up, I requested an internal transfer to the Project Management team. It’s like the saying goes, "If you don't' ask, you won't get!"
What are your main responsibilities as a project manager?
My main responsibility is to manage the construction of projects to ensure they are completed on time, on budget and of the highest quality. Having a clear understanding of the objective, scope, project details, and the application of well-designed governance structure and processes are crucial to achieving success and delivering value as a project manager. Communication is also an essential skill for Project Managers. Depending on the project scope, I will typically lead a team of consultants and contractors. This requires the ability to communicate with multiple parties clearly and effectively, particularly when we are racing against time.
Have there been any stand-out moments in your career?
The first-ever project I worked on as a Project Manager is my most memorable. It was a 120,000sqft office fit-out! At the time, I felt like I was biting off more than I could chew because of the sheer scale and intensity of the project. Looking back, it was the best experience I had throughout my relatively short and ongoing career. People learn the most after making mistakes, and I can attest to that. Since then, I have worked on several new projects, from data centres to new ramp-up warehouses; each has been an opportunity for me to further hone my skills.
Why is development so important at AtkinsRéalis ?
Clients trust Project Managers and Consultants to deliver leading capabilities and value-add. To be able to constantly deliver the best results for our clients' projects, it’s important we keep learning and equipping ourselves with the latest tools and approaches. For many, the widespread lockdowns have been an opportunity to invest in self-development and learn new skills. I recently acquired a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, something I have always wanted to obtain, but never had the time to do.
What is the best part about working at AtkinsRéalis ?
I love working here because AtkinsRéalis supports the development of its employees. The Company’s strong track record positions us well to be involved in some of the most exciting and challenging projects, which provides great opportunities to learn on the job. Surrounding myself with brilliant people that are recognized experts drives me forward and inspires me to never stop learning.
Find your next project management job with AtkinsRéalis
If you're inspired by Andrew's career and want to find out where a job with us could lead you, why not browse our latest project management jobs? We have opportunities across a range of markets, including cities and development, clean power and transportation. As a leading project management consultancy firm, we have offices in over 50 countries, so no matter what stage you're at in your career, or what direction you want to take it in, we'll help you get there.
If you're looking for more stories like Andrew's or want to read content about strategic project management, why you should bring your project management career to an engineering firm and more, then browse our project management blogs.
Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis
Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests
Our articles
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
10/11/2024
Summary
Hello. I'm Karen, a Senior Programme Manager in Project & Programme Services at AtkinsRéalis in the UK. Born to Ghanaian parents and raised in North London, my journey has been one of resilience
Preview
CanadaContent type
BlogsPublish date
10/10/2024
Summary
From engineering internships to leadership roles: My journey at AtkinsRéalis Discovering leadership through my civil engineering internships Allô, my name is Karolane. I work at AtkinsRéalis
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
10/08/2024
Summary
At AtkinsRéalis, we believe that sustainability is more than just a goal - it shapes everything we do. For over a decade, our team members, like the one you'll meet today, have b
Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
10/02/2024
Summary
In the rapidly evolving world of energy, having the right foundation in nuclear and net zero energy is crucial. AtkinsRéalis stands at the forefront of this sector, offering abundant opportuniti
Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
10/01/2024
Summary
We interviewed Turki Ghesheyan on his experience with the AtkinsRéalis Saudi Graduate Program. Tell us a little bit about yourself My name is Turki, I am an Architectural Engineer who graduated from
Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
09/30/2024
Summary
At AtkinsRéalis, we have a team of local, regional, and international experts in the UAE who are dedicated to delivering innovative solutions in the market to meet the needs of our clients. The UAE i
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
09/30/2024
Summary
Hello, my name is Sherif, and I work at AtkinsRéalis in London. As a principal fire engineer, I'm proud to "engineer a better future" every day here, specifically as our work relates to shaping
Preview
EuropeContent type
ProjectsPublish date
09/30/2024
Summary
Hinkley Point C (HPC) is the first nuclear power station to be built in the UK since the 1990s. Technically complex and the country’s largest infrastructure project – our talented people from
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
09/30/2024
Summary
Hi! I'm Alina, an associate director specialized in transport infrastructure engineering. I lead the North-West Estimating team in Project & Programme Services here in Manchester. Over the past
Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
09/27/2024
Summary
Across the evolving landscape of the Middle East, Architects play a large part in designing and planning complex building structures that are in line with groundbreaking innovation. The constructio
Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
09/24/2024
Summary
In the fast-paced world of consultancy, architecture, and project management, the need for forward-thinking leadership and innovative strategies has never been more critical. At AtkinsRéalis, we
Preview
EuropeContent type
BlogsPublish date
09/13/2024
Summary
Hello, my name is Dilini! Two years ago, after completing my doctorate in structural fire engineering, I began practicing in the UK fire engineering industry. I'm proud to have contributed
Related jobs
We are sorry but we currently have no jobs in this area.
Continue browsing to look at our other available opportunities
Equality, diversity and inclusion
We’re devoted to growing the diversity of our people, promoting an inclusive culture, providing everyone with an equal voice because simply put, it’s the right thing to do. Click to learn more.
Find out more