Neil Matthias beat 120 other finalists to win the annual competition run by the Chartered Institute of Building.

Matthias was recognised for his work at Shepherd’s £44.5m development of Rockliffe Hall Hotel, Golf Course and Spa in Hurworth on Tees, Darlington.

The complex project over a 350 acre site involved the sensitive restoration of a Grade II listed Old Hall that had lain derelict for several years, and many new-build elements which had to blend in with the existing structures alongside a championship golf course.

Chris Blythe CIOB Chief Executive said: “When partnering goes well, it can work magnificently. Neil treated the entire workforce as equals in a tour-de-force example of collaboration.

“The rewards of his whole-team approach included innovation, quality, and savings. Through constant questioning of details and creative thought, he delivered excellence.”

Matthias said: “I live and dream construction. I have worked in the industry since school, having started out as an YTS joiner with Shepherd, and working my way up to become a project manager.”

It was also a good day for Willmott Dixon with three of its 13 finalists winning gold medals.

The Willmott winners were Mark Thornhill in the housing above £12m category for Denham Garden Village near Rickmansworth, Lee Bushell in the new build up to £4m category for a sixth form extension to Kendrick Girls School and Andy Miles for Rogiet Primary School in Wales in the £4-6m category.