OBAS would like to say a huge congratulations to Lee Hutchinson, Project Director at Mace who has been awarded the CIOB's prestigious title of Construction Manager of the Year for his work on a new science building at Barnes’ St Paul’s School.


The project was completed on time and under budget and has achieved architectural acclaim and awards even though this was a project undertaken through the recession.


Hugh Muirhead, project director at St Paul’s School said: “We always found Lee imaginative and disciplined in overcoming problems, with a refreshing openness and clarity in the way he worked with the team to keep the momentum going, always with an eye to our sensitivities and requirements.


“I do not recall having worked with a better project manager during 30 years of construction.”


Chris Blythe, chief executive of the Chartered Institute of Building said: “Lee is a born leader who instinctively knows how to create an atmosphere of openness and trust within teams and the wider community.


“His dedication, infectious enthusiasm and unswerving focus in the face of adversity mark him out as one of the best construction managers of his generation.


“He is a great ambassador for our industry and a very worthy winner.”


Hutchinson received the award at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London in front of 95 finalist for the highly respected accolade, being selected as the overall winner from 11 gold medal winning category winners.