Building the Argument: What makes project management in the Construction sector different?

This session explored project management in the Built Environment, including the range of project life cycles used, the procurement routes available, the sector’s long standing pursuit of partnering and collaboration, and the regulatory and statutory approval environment within which projects are delivered. Sustainability challenges were used to illustrate how the sector is responding to increasing demands for whole life value and responsible delivery. This event was held on 2 July 2026.

Speakers Dave Corbin and Claire Biggs are members of the APM Built Environment Interest Network, with Dave serving as the Network Lead. Drawing on many years of experience across the sector, they reflected on whether project management skills are truly universal, or whether the Built Environment demands a distinct mindset and skillset.

Anchored in core project management principles, the session questioned whether success in the Built Environment depends on specialist skills or specialist knowledge. By examining procurement strategy, collaboration, regulation, and sustainability, the discussion invited reflection on how transferable project management capability is shaped by sector context.

Dave and Claire have very kindly allowed their presented material to be made available for viewing.
The slides on Slideshare are now available in our APM resources area and also embedded below for reference.

Speakers:

Dave Corbin, Chief Project Delivery Officer, Gleeds

Dave Corbin. Chief Project Delivery Officer at Gleeds, a global construction consultancy. He has 35 years’ experience in the Built Environment specialising in project leadership. Dave is a Chartered Project Professional (ChPP) and a Fellow of the Association for Project Management (FAPM). He is the APM's Built Environment Interest Network Lead, an active mentor and awards judge. He was awarded a Special Achievement Award at the 2021 APM Volunteer Awards and was a finalist for the Chartered Project Professional of the Year Award in 2024.

Claire Biggs, Senior Project Manager, J4 Projects

Claire Biggs. A Senior Project Manager with over eight years’ experience delivering complex construction projects across the UK and Europe. At J4 Projects, I’ve had the opportunity to lead a variety of successful schemes, and I now play an active role within the leadership team. This position gives me a meaningful platform to contribute in shaping the long-term direction of the business—something I’m genuinely passionate about.

Recognised for my collaborative approach and strong stakeholder engagement, I build trusted relationships at every level, providing clarity and confidence in fast-moving project environments. I thrive on bringing people together, navigating challenges with a calm, solution-focused mindset.

Alongside my project work, I am a Full Member of the Association for Project Management (APM) and an active volunteer within its Built Environment Interest Network, helping champion best practice and future-focused skills across the profession.