25 Years in Construction Consultancy: Experience, Perspective and People — A Conversation with Emma Howarth
Longevity in construction consultancy reflects more than tenure. It signals accumulated insight, trusted relationships, and a deep understanding of how projects succeed in practice.
Over the past 25 years, the built environment has experienced significant change, from evolving regulations and sustainability expectations to digital transformation and economic pressures.
Emma Howarth’s 25-year career at Poole Dick provides a valuable perspective on how the industry has developed, what clients increasingly expect from advisers, and why experience continues to play an important role in delivering successful outcomes.
We spoke with Emma about her career journey, industry change, and what continues to motivate her.
What originally drew you to construction consultancy?
I was attracted by the tangible impact of the work. Construction is one of the few industries where you can see the results of your efforts in a very real way. The variety also appealed; every project brings different challenges, stakeholders, and learning opportunities.
How has the industry changed over the past 25 years?
There’s been significant evolution. Regulation and compliance requirements have increased, sustainability has moved firmly up the agenda, and digital tools now play a central role in project delivery. Clients are also more informed and expect advisers to bring broader strategic insight, not just technical input.
What do you think has remained constant?
The importance of relationships. Construction is fundamentally collaborative. Trust, communication, and reliability continue to underpin successful projects, regardless of technological or regulatory changes.
How have client expectations shifted during your career?
Clients increasingly look for advisers who understand their wider objectives, not just the immediate project brief. There’s greater emphasis on risk management, cost certainty, sustainability, and long-term asset performance. Consultancy has become more holistic.
What skills are most important for the next generation entering the sector?
Technical competence is essential, but communication, adaptability, and commercial awareness are equally important. The industry is evolving quickly, so being open to learning and change is critical.
What has kept you at Poole Dick for 25 years?
The people, the culture, and the variety of projects. There’s always something new to learn, and the collaborative environment makes it a rewarding professional experience.
Are there particular projects or achievements that stand out?
It’s often less about a single project and more about long-term relationships with clients and seeing projects successfully delivered over time. That continuity is particularly satisfying.
What still motivates you after 25 years?
The industry never stands still. New challenges, new technologies, and changing client needs keep the role interesting. Supporting projects from concept through to completion remains very rewarding.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in construction consultancy?
Stay curious, ask questions, and build strong relationships. Focus on the fundamentals, remain adaptable, and take every opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues
Pictured above L-R: Andy Bayley, Emma Howarth, Martin Brownsill
For 25 years, Emma has been a cornerstone of the Poole Dick team—always supporting her colleagues and generously sharing her expertise with those outside the company who aspire to build a career in Quantity Surveying. Her dedication is unmistakable; as someone recently remarked, Emma is like a stick of Blackpool rock—cut her in half, and you’d find Poole Dick running through her core.
It has been a pleasure to support Emma over the years and to watch her grow into a first‑class surveyor.
Andy Bayley
Director
What has kept you at Poole Dick for 25 years?
The people, the culture, and the variety of projects. There’s always something new to learn, and the collaborative environment makes it rewarding professionally – Emma Howarth
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