A conversation with project leadership trainer, Ed
Ed is an architect, trainer and coach with particular expertise in project leadership and the business of architectural practice. He brings a practical understanding of both the commercial realities of running a practice and the challenges of delivering complex projects.
What has been your professional journey into learning and development?
I have been an architect for over 30 years. I began my career in small practices before joining MJP Architects, and later spent 15 years as a director at Metropolitan Workshop. During that time, the practice grew from a team of around 12 to more than 50 people across its London and Dublin offices, giving me valuable experience of supporting people and teams as their roles developed.
My interest in learning and development also grew through my work as a Part III examiner at my alma mater, Kingston University, and as a long-standing illustrator and contributor to Dashdot publications. This has included a series of books designed to help architects understand and navigate the business of architectural practice.
I continue to work closely with architectural practices, which keeps me connected to the challenges facing the profession today. Through my work with Colander, I draw on this experience to help architects develop throughout their careers, navigat the demands of project leadership and better understand what makes a practice tick.
What shapes your approach as a trainer?
Having worked with many architects at different stages of their careers, and on a range of high-profile projects, I have first-hand experience of the challenges people face both in the office and on the front line of delivering complex projects.
These roles can be demanding as well as highly rewarding. I bring that experience into my training, encouraging plenty of discussion and giving participants space to explore the real-life issues they face as architects, hear different perspectives and learn from one another.
What courses and services do you deliver?
I run the Architects as Project Leaders course, as well as providing consultancy and coaching to architects and practices. The course is aimed at architects and designers who are beginning to take on project leadership responsibilities. It helps them gain a clearer understanding of their role and prepares them to navigate the many challenges they may face, both within the practice and while delivering projects.
What other interests and motivations do you have, away from work?
I enjoy travelling and have recently spent a lot of time with family in Sweden, as well as learning Swedish. I am also a keen runner and take part in marathons and occasionally longer races. Running is a great way to step away from the office, spend time in nature and gain a fresh perspective on life. I also continue to draw and paint whenever I have the space and time.
Explore Ed's course