Meet some of our team

Paul Shaffer
BSc (Hons) Environmental Management

I joined CIRIA in 2001 to explore ways to improve the use and management of water. CIRIA has allowed me to participate and deliver in a wide variety of projects ranging from the development of guidance documents, websites, newsletters, training and conferences on a number of diverse areas in the water and built environment sectors.

I started at CIRIA as a Project Manager, primarily involved in the development and delivery of projects on sustainable water management (water conservation and sustainable drainage). The role requires the identification of challenges faced by the industry, understanding research and guidance requirements, and obtaining support to deliver guidance that moves the industry forward. Managing CIRIA projects enables you to develop contacts with high level policy and decision makers and senior managers in a wide number of public and private organisations and shape projects that can make a difference.

Now as an Associate at CIRIA I am responsible for the coordination of the water projects both in terms of business development and delivery and have the opportunity to manage other related research frameworks for external clients. Working at CIRIA provides exposure to a number of interesting work areas and sectors all with their own challenges, requirements and quirks. CIRIA has also afforded the opportunity to work with a number of driven colleagues (internal and external) that share the aspiration to improve the contribution that construction and built environment sectors make to sustainability.

Gemma Samlal
M.Sci (Hons) Environmental Geoscience

After graduating from University College London (UCL) in Sept 2005 I joined CIRIA in 2007. As a masters graduate I wanted a role which utilised my technical knowledge and skills in the sustainability sector. I was appointed assistant project manager focussing on developing and disseminating good practice guidance within the nuclear industry. My role also involves managing and maintaining CIRIA-owned websites such as SAFEGROUNDS, Building Greener and Engage Construct, developing my experience further.

I have also become involved with nuclear and other network forums, gaining the opportunity to meet several senior people from the industry. This has enabled me to develop my professional interests and ideas through projects and events helping to drive forward the construction industry.

As a Fellow of the Geological Society I am currently working towards chartered status, which CIRIA continues to support and encourage. I frequently attend lectures and meeting utilising issues raised in project development. The company has provided plenty of opportunity for me to develop my professional and personal skills.

James Milne
CIM Professional Certificate in Marketing

I joined CIRIA in 1995 as an Accounts Clerk and have progressed into Marketing since then. I currently work as the CIRIA Press officer.

Over the years CIRIA has offered me excellent career progression and personal development opportunities. I am currently completing my CIM Professional Diploma in Marketing.

CIRIA's activities are wide and varied attracting staff from all walks of life. Working at CIRIA appeals to me because of the friendly and professional working environment. As Press Officer I have been able to interact with most of the leading journals in the industry as well as senior figures.

Philip Charles
BSc (Hons) Environmental Earth Sciences

After graduating from University of Wales Aberystwyth in 2001, I joined CIRIA a year later. What attracted me to the company was that CIRIA is an independent organisation, held in high regard by the construction industry. CIRIA has provided plenty of opportunities for me to work in areas related to my degree and there is career progression for the right candidates.

My first role here was as a management assistant to a CIRIA Director and this led to assistant project manager role as I became increasingly involved with projects and networks. I was recently promoted to a Project Manager's role as I began developing and running projects.

CIRIA has always supported my professional interests and I am a Fellow of the Geological Society taking part in their regional committee. I am also an affiliate member of the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment and in time I hope to gain my chartered status with the Institute.

I enjoy working at CIRIA because of a varied workload with plenty of opportunities to engage with wide variety of organisations. My knowledge levels have been enhanced by this experience and the company provides a very friendly working atmosphere.