When Macy Reddy joined Barhale in November 2016, she was taking her first step into the civil engineering industry with a company known for its strong commitment to development and long-standing expertise. Her father, a construction manager at Barhale, had been an early source of inspiration, but Macy’s path would become uniquely her own.

Starting as an Assistant Cost Clerk, Macy quickly showed a passion for learning and development. Over the years, she steadily climbed the ranks, driven by curiosity, determination and a hands-on approach to the world of civil engineering. As of March 2024, she proudly holds the role of Quantity Surveyor within the Eastern region.

“It’s been a journey full of learning, development and hands-on experience,” she reflects. “Every step has helped shape the QS I am today.”

Macy’s educational background is as diverse as her career. Initially focused on creative media with a Level 3 BTEC in TV and Film, she transitioned into civil engineering with a part-time Level 3 BTEC in Construction in 2019. That foundation led her to a Level 4 qualification and more recently, a Degree Apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying through Anglia Ruskin University, where she studies one day a week alongside her full-time role.

Her career progression mirrors her academic journey. From Trainee Quantity Surveyor in 2021 to Assistant QS in 2022 and now a fully-fledged QS, Macy’s growth has been both consistent and impressive.

Life as a Quantity Surveyor

In her current role, Macy manages a dynamic and varied workload. No two days are quite the same. Key responsibilities include preparing forecasting reports, managing uploads to meet strict deadlines and conducting monthly project reviews with senior commercial leaders. “I spend a lot of time on site,” she explains. “It’s where you see the design changes, spot potential cost savings and monitor overall progress. It’s also where you really get a feel for how a project is evolving.”

Macy ensures sub-contractors are paid promptly and maintains close oversight of cost updates. Her work also includes compiling detailed commercial reports, assessing hired equipment usage, flagging early warnings and capturing photographic evidence.

She values her time spent working directly with site managers. “Those one-on-one sessions are so important,” she says. “We recently remeasured an access road together and it really highlighted how closely the commercial and operational sides need to work.”

Her project portfolio includes notable sites such as Southend and Broadholme, experiences she recalls with pride.

Culture and Collaboration

Throughout her time at Barhale, Macy has thrived in a culture that champions support and development. She’s quick to highlight the organisation’s commitment to career progression and its collaborative ethos, especially within the @one Alliance.

“What sets Barhale apart is how seriously it takes your development,” she says. “From day one, I’ve been supported and encouraged to grow and take on new challenges.”

If there’s one Barhale value that stands out to her, it’s collaboration. “Working with people from different disciplines, learning from one another, solving problems together. That’s where you grow the most.”

Jonathan Beadle, Macy’s line manager at the @one Alliance has been very impressed with Macy’s contribution to the team: “I have worked with Macy since she first took the step from Cost Clerk to Trainee QS.  I can honestly say Macy is the perfect model for what a Commercial Manager or SQS looks for in a TQS/AQS.  Macy is so hard working, so keen to learn and never afraid to ask for further explanation if she doesn’t instantly understand a certain task.  These attributes have allowed Macy to progress to QS in a relatively short period of time and I’m certain she will move on to SQS and beyond soon.  It has been a pleasure to work with Macy these last four years and she is a highly valued member of our commercial team and the wider programme area.”

Looking Ahead

With her sights set on a senior QS position, or potentially moving into a project management role, Macy is excited about the road ahead. “There’s always another level to aim for. That’s what keeps me motivated,” she says. “Civil Engineering is such a dynamic industry; there’s always a new challenge, a new opportunity to learn.”

Her advice for those just beginning their journey at Barhale? “Get out on site. That’s where you really understand how everything connects and where the best relationships are built,” she enthuses.

A Personal Note

Outside of her professional life, Macy has an interest in film and hopes to travel more in the future.  In terms of her own growth, she credits Barhale with helping her grow not only in her career but personally.

“My experience here has been overwhelmingly positive,” she says. “It’s helped me build confidence and brought me out of my shell.”

From an Assistant Cost Clerk to a confident Quantity Surveyor, Macy Reddy’s journey at Barhale is a powerful example of what’s possible with the right support, mindset and passion for the job.