United to deliver.
Unity brings together the region’s three leading experts in complex rail infrastructure and sustainable major projects. We have brought together the expertise and experience of Sir Robert McAlpine, VolkerFitzpatrick and WSP, and specialist consultants, Copper Consultancy, into our Unity leadership team. As one team, we are united in delivering: Specialist Expertise, Programme Excellence, A Sustainable Future and A Lasting Legacy.
Paul Bird, Project Director
Current role: Project Director, Sir Robert McAlpine
“I am passionate about delivering complex construction projects which involves resolving challenges collaboratively; building and leading high performing, fully engaged teams with the right values and culture”
With 33 years industry experience, including 17 years in various Project Director positions, Paul has successfully delivered challenging multi-interface, multi-disciplinary projects involving civils, buildings & building services teams, including supply chain partners, in both the pre-construction and operational delivery phases. Paul is an enthusiastic and conscientious leader who aims for impeccable health, safety and wellbeing standards through a one team approach.
Key projects: BREEAM ‘Excellent’ Paradise Phase One I Midland Medical Accommodation (Increment 2)
Steve Walker, Construction Manager
Current role: Sir Robert McAlpine, Project Manager
“Successful projects are delivered through strong collaborative relationships, where teams work together as one to address the many and varied challenges in construction delivery”
Following roles as a site engineer and manager, Steve has 20 years’ experience as a Construction Project Manager, in both pre-construction and project-based positions, managing diverse supply chains in multi-disciplinary environments. Open and approachable, Steve builds long-term relationships with colleagues, clients and stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered safely, cost-effectively, and to the highest standards using innovative off-site manufacturing and prefabrication processes.
Key projects: Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre I Chapel Wharf
Daniel Bishop, Design Manager
Current role: WSP, Deputy Head of Discipline – Delivery (Rail)
“Innovation thrives when we combine our phenomenal collective expertise, a genuine drive to make a real difference, and a collaborative and progressive project environment”
Dan has over 21 years’ experience in project, technical and business leadership of teams from across the UK and overseas. Dan has led complex multi-disciplinary railway projects through design, construction and delivery and understands the importance of the railway as a collection of systems, subsystems and components that must be correctly integrated for projects to be successful.
Key projects: East West Rail Phase 1 I High Speed 2 Phase 1 Engineering Delivery Partner
James Buckels, Commercial Manager
Current role: VolkerFitzpatrick, Commercial Manager
“I thrive on driving high performing commercial teams and building wider relationships to embed genuine collaborative working and deliver exemplar outcomes”
Over a commercial career spanning 17 years, James has built experience in controlling and delivering complex projects and buildings, including civils & infrastructure schemes and railway stations. Working within integrated project team environments, James has managed large budgets in highly sensitive, target cost environments ensuring an open and transparent system to build trust and confidence with clients.
Key projects experience: National Highways and Network Rail Frameworks, M5 Oldbury Viaduct I A417 Missing Link I Northampton Waterside Infrastructure, Luton Junction 10
Fiona Woolston, Stakeholder Manager
Current role: Account Director, Copper Consultancy
“By building understanding and forging consensus with stakeholders even contentious projects can gain societal licence to operate and enhance their reputations”
Stakeholder engagement and PR specialist, Fiona, has built advocacy for some of the country’s major infrastructure and construction projects. For the last four years, Fiona has strategised and delivered engagement for LM JV’s enabling works activities surrounding the future HS2 Interchange Station, consistently achieving the highest level KPI and full U&A compliance. Fiona has also been asked to share her expertise to enhance engagement delivery of other contractors working on behalf of HS2 along the railway route and key stakeholders including National Highways.
Key projects: LM JV, HS2 Enabling Works, Area North I BBV, Main Works Civils, Area North
