James Allan
Wirral,Merseyside
Summary
A highly experienced Principal Designer with many years of expertise in leading design management and health & safety compliance under CDM Regulations, and more recently under BSA. Proven track record in overseeing complex construction projects across multiple sectors, ensuring the successful integration of design, risk management, and statutory compliance.
Adept at collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, managing stakeholder expectations, and identifying design-related hazards at every project stage. Skilled in promoting a proactive safety culture, mitigating risks, and delivering innovative solutions that align with both client objectives and regulatory standards. Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills, with a focus on maintaining safety, functionality, and efficiency from project conception through to completion.
Excited to see what the next chapter brings
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
13
13
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Principal Designer CDM & BSA
Drees & Sommer UK
Liverpool, Merseyside
11.2023 - Current
- Working on a diverse range of projects, from small-scale residential developments to large commercial ventures.
- Led and developed the team to deliver the new BSA PD role.
- Provide the role of Principal Designer on non-HRBs.
- Managing and mentoring two junior CDM Advisors, developing them into competent professionals.
- Conducting design reviews, and advising project teams on compliance with CDM 2015.
- Preparing and reviewing Pre-Construction Information packs.
- Engaging with clients and design teams to promote best practices, and effective risk management.
- Supporting the preparation and review of Construction Phase Plans (CPP), and ensuring all Health and Safety documentation is in place.
- Developed and maintained knowledge of UK building regulations, CDM 2015, and BSA 2023 to prevent non-compliance losses.
- Lead CDM workshops, and contribute to the development of design safety strategies.
- Assist in the preparation of the Health and Safety files.
Consultant Principal Designer CDM
Drees and Sommer UK
Liverpool, Merseyside
11.2023 - Current
- Work closely with clients, offering guidance and support throughout the project lifecycle.
- Oversee the preparation of Pre-Construction Information (PCI) and Construction Phase Plans (CPP).
- Manage project design, risk assessments, and review health and safety plans.
- Working on a diverse range of projects, from small-scale residential developments to large commercial ventures.
- Engaging with clients and design teams to promote best practices, and effective risk management.
- Assist in the preparation of the Health and Safety files.
CDM Advisor and HSEQ Manager
Mersey Engineering Construction
Birkenhead, Merseyside
06.2020 - 09.2022
- Acted as dutyholder Principal Contractor, advising and directing the company on their responsibilities under CDM 2015.
- Drafted Construction Phase Plans (CPP) for all relevant projects.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients to secure repeat business.
- Conducted regular site inspections for hazard identification.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of HSE regulations to ensure compliance.
- Improved overall HSE performance with strategic planning.
- Implemented risk assessment procedures, mitigating potential risks.
- Developed comprehensive safety protocols to ensure workplace safety.
- Liaised with external health and safety bodies for ongoing improvement.
- Provided expert advice on HSE issues, aiding in decision-making processes.
CDM Advisor (Intern)
Carillion
Liverpool, Merseyside
06.2013 - 07.2015
- Increased team productivity by taking diligent meeting minutes.
- Ensured timely project completion for customer satisfaction.
- Solved complex problems with effective teamwork and communication skills.
- Conducted in-depth market research to understand consumer behaviour.
Education
Certificate - Health and Safety Management in Construction
NEBOSH
UK 01.2023 - 06.2023
Certificate - in Fire Safety
NEBOSH
UK 01.2021 - 06.2021
Higher National Diploma - Occupational Health and Safety
NEBOSH
UK 01.2019 - 01.2021
Legal Practitioners Course (LPC) -
Liverpool John Moores University
Liverpool 09.2017 - 06.2019
Bachelor of Law -
Liverpool John Moores University
Liverpool, UK 09.2013 - 06.2017
NVQ Level 6 - Advanced Technician Diploma in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering
Knowsley Community College
Knowsley 05.2007 - 06.2012
Skills
- Client engagement
- Knowledge of construction practices
- Commercial and Financial Awareness
- Customer-Focused
- Keen and competent Principal Designer
- Committed to personal growth, and development
Affiliations
- Outside of work, I enjoy staying active through regular gym sessions and running, which help me maintain focus and well-being. I also value spending quality time with my young family, which provides a great balance to my professional life.
Certification
- SMSTS
- QCF L3 First Aid at Work
- Certified Member of The Association of Project Safety
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Senior Principal Designer CDM & BSA
Drees & Sommer UK
11.2023 - Current
Consultant Principal Designer CDM
Drees and Sommer UK
11.2023 - Current
Certificate - Health and Safety Management in Construction
NEBOSH
01.2023 - 06.2023
Certificate - in Fire Safety
NEBOSH
01.2021 - 06.2021
CDM Advisor and HSEQ Manager
Mersey Engineering Construction
06.2020 - 09.2022
Higher National Diploma - Occupational Health and Safety
NEBOSH
01.2019 - 01.2021
Legal Practitioners Course (LPC) -
Liverpool John Moores University
09.2017 - 06.2019
Bachelor of Law -
Liverpool John Moores University
09.2013 - 06.2017
CDM Advisor (Intern)
Carillion
06.2013 - 07.2015
NVQ Level 6 - Advanced Technician Diploma in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering
Knowsley Community College
05.2007 - 06.2012
Similar Profiles
Endrias Tedla SimeEndrias Tedla Sime
Facade Designer at Drees & Sommer SEFacade Designer at Drees & Sommer SE
Taylor JansaTaylor Jansa
Sales Coordinator at Drees Co.Sales Coordinator at Drees Co.
Ryan DreesRyan Drees
General Contractor at Drees Homes and Construction LLCGeneral Contractor at Drees Homes and Construction LLC
Joseph FarringtonJoseph Farrington
Dominos at HoylakeDominos at Hoylake
Peter CoddPeter Codd
Data Inputter at Merseyside PoliceData Inputter at Merseyside Police