Former Operations Director Whitfield started out as a QS and will now be in charge of Bouygues UK’s 230-strong team of quantity surveyors as he strengthens commercial management across the firm.

Bouygues UK’s Strategy and Finance Director, Philippe Jouy, said: “The industry continues to express frustrations over the chronic shortage of quantity surveyors – this senior role reflects the importance of the surveying function within the Bouygues UK group and highlights the career development opportunities available to people who have a background in surveying and aspirations for a career in commercial management.”

Whitfield said: “I’m acutely aware of the need to encourage more talent into the profession.

“It’s no secret that the lack of people choosing surveying as a career is an issue affecting the entire industry.

“There’s still some work to be done, and indeed organisations like RICS are already trying to make it more appealing as a career choice.

“From my own experience, I think one of the key motivating factors for being a surveyor should be the breadth of ongoing career opportunities.

“I’m looking forward to working with colleagues across the business to make sure that we develop and retain our existing talent and appeal to new recruits.

“Bouygues UK is at an exciting stage in its development and it’s a great opportunity to join and grow with us.”