CEnv Profile | Christian Richards, Director, J B Langley - Engineering, Architectural and Surveying

What does an average day look like in your career?

One of the main attractions of working within the construction industry is that no day is the same, there are always different challenges to face and problems to solve.

With J B Langley being a multidisciplined practice, I am personally involved with different sectors, clients and roles. Obviously with us been proud Employer Champions, we have a strong environment backbone across all our departments and where we can, we always try to approach all our projects with focus being on the environment.

How did you get to where you are now?

I won’t lie, it’s been a long journey! I entered the industry having stayed on at school to take my A-Levels. Since then, I have advanced through a career pathway from Office Junior to Director of my own company.

With regards to my CEnv progression, this has also been progressing over time. Initially starting as Associate Member with CIAT, to becoming Chartered, then achieving Fellowship Status and successfully becoming a Chartered Environmentalist via the CIAT route.

The jewel in the crown is J B Langley becoming Chartered Environmentalist Employer Champions. It’s been an unbelievable amount of hard work but well worth the effort.

In what ways does your role consider and protect the environment?

My day-to-day role sees me dealing with a wide client base, been involved in various projects, offering a range of services. This means my approach to each, and every project will differ to suit the needs of the client. This may vary from internal retrofits, to EVC charging, to improving overall energy performance or to focusing on carbon neutral solutions.

The role is very widespread and has a varied approach, but I always try and action this with the environment at the forefront of my mind.

How has your focus on environmental impacts changed over the course of your career?

The industry is becoming more complex and we’re entering a new era when it comes to construction. I have noticed a big change throughout my career and continue to do so. Change is always difficult to negotiate without enforcement and regulation. Requirements, rather than recommendations, can ease the conversations we have with our clients, however, we always face the overriding issue of projects been budget led.

The most noticeable change is in people’s attitudes and a ‘Green Project’ is now often looked upon in a positive light. Previously it was often looked upon has a hindrance.

What are the top three key knowledge areas that are crucial to your role?

1. Understanding and adhering to Legislation

The industry is forever changing. Although this is sometimes difficult to negotiate and keep on top of, it also means that your role doesn’t become stale, as there is always something new to learn.

2. Building Physics

Understanding Building Physics is vital to my role, especially when delivering PAS 2035 Retrofit Projects. Implementing this knowledge can prevent major problems, such as incorrect specifications, product failure, damp / mold issues.

3. Communication

Being a good communicator is one of the key skillsets and vital to being successful within my role. Communicating information to all is absolutely essential to ensure successful delivery of a project. Many projects fail due to poor communications.

What part of your job do you find the most exciting?

I believe any designer will always have a thirst for new projects. Having the opportunity to help and assist clients in fulfilling their brief is what drives you. We are now seeing clients place more value on environmental solutions, which is great.

There has been a change in focus towards wanting to design / build in an environmentally manner, which as a Chartered Environmentalist and proud CEnv Employer Champions, is brilliant to see.

What are your 3 top tips for those applying for CEnv?

1. Break the submission into smaller manageable chunks. For example, writing 1000 words may sound daunting, but it can easily be slotting into your working week: 200 words a day, 100 in the morning, 100 in the evening. It will soon add up.
2. Take the easy wins. Whether this be completing easier sections on the application form or collating information which you already have available, it all helps. Completing the quick and simple tasks all help chip away at completing the application, making it much easier and more manageable.
3. Take the help and assistance that is on offer, that is what it is there for. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for sections of your submission to be checked or think that the pre submission feedback will have a negative impact on whether your application will be successful. If anything, it will be looked upon favourably that you have sought help and assistance, it shows a willingness from the candidate.

Why would you encourage others in your sector to aspire to become a CEnv?

There are so many benefits of becoming a CEnv and it is really down to the individual, however I would strongly recommend my fellow piers to apply. I can only talk about my own experiences, but I do believe it has really elevated me and my business. I am starting to see more of an interest from clients, and the wider industry, towards CEnv. One unexpected benefit is the network of qualified and likeminded people / companies which are now within reach, which weren’t before.