Our highly-skilled and experienced team includes Architects, Architectural Technicians/Technologists, BIM Operators, Civil and Structural Engineers, Design Managers, Mechanical and Electrical Engineers, Principal Designers, Project Managers, Site Supervisors, Surveyors, Revit Specialists and more.
Here’s a quick introduction to some of the people you may meet:
Kevin is responsible for the sustainability of the business and the creation of a resilient and long-term legacy for staff.
Kevin has worked for INVVU (formerly WSS) for 15 years and was the chief instigator in INVVU’s inception.
Prior to that, Kevin was a Consulting Engineer with Troup, Bywaters and Anders, and Operations Manager for SERCO Aerospace.
Kevin is too modest to divulge his many talents, however he is a huge polar bear enthusiast, having tracked and photographed them in the wild.
Phil is responsible for the day-to-day running of our business and managing client relationships, as well as senior design management.
Phil has worked for INVVU (formerly WSS) for 15 years, climbing the ranks from Technician to Managing Director. He loves the team ethic at INVVU and says:
‘Being a multidisciplinary team makes us unique and means we are able to engage on projects from start to finish. We have built up fantastic bonds in the team and with our clients and we have a real passion for making a difference in the industry. We don’t stand still, we advocate innovation, sustainability and improvement.’
In his spare time, Phil coaches a successful junior football team – New Romney Blue Under 12s – who we also sponsor.
Paul oversees all matters financial, IT and legal, as he is both our Finance Director and Company Secretary. Paul is responsible for, along with the other board members, steering the direction of the company, establishing budgets, and reporting on performance to both the board and shareholders.
Paul’s career started with Lloyds Bank back in the early 1980s and then moved into construction in 1988. He brings to the table over 30 years of experience as a finance director for several different companies, both within the construction industry and outside; so, has an extremely strong financial background, and acumen.
Paul is active in the leadership of his church and owns two motorbikes (but only ever rides one of them). He also loves a curry!
Lyndsey joined us in January 2020, bringing with her a wealth of industry experience gained working for Baxall Construction, Kier, WSS, Walker Construction and the University of Greenwich. She is responsible for all aspects of design and project management.
When asked why she wanted to work for INVVU, Lyndsey said:
‘They’re a great team to work with, especially as all the key disciplines are under one roof; it makes projects more streamlined and easier to manage. Also, INVVU is a growing company, so there are exciting times ahead – who wouldn’t want to be part of that?’
Away from work, Lyndsey’s pride and joy are her dogs; rough collie, Misty, and German Shepherd, Storm.
Chris is responsible for overseeing projects awarded to INVVU from inception through design, construction to completion or handover. He is also our Principal Designer and Health and Safety Manager and ensures on a daily basis that both our staff and our projects are well looked after – and that we comply fully with legislation. Chris is a Chartered Construction Manager with the C.I.O.B, Associate of the Institute of Engineer Designers and currently working towards chartership with the Institute of Project Safety.
Chris previously worked for Walker Construction (UK) Ltd as a Site Manager in the Southern Building Section undertaking school and property refurbishments / builds. Chris also worked for WSS, before INVVU. Prior to that, he worked for Balfour Beatty at Dungeness B Power Station.
He loves the variety of what we do and the close-knit nature of the INVVU team: ‘As a multidisciplinary consultancy, we work in a variety of sectors across different industries, residential, schools, highways, rail, retail, private and public body clients … no two projects are the same. I enjoy building and maintaining close relationships with our clients, supply chain and contractors and building a diverse portfolio of projects. Most importantly, I enjoy working with the INVVU team, it’s become a second family for me.’
When he was just 10, Chris became the second youngest PADI Open Water qualified Scuba diver in the UK, missing out on being the youngest by just two days. A complete water baby who enjoys swimming, kite surfing and sailing and dreams of one day sailing around the world at a leisurely pace.
Meet Calvin Saldanha, our Principal Electrical Engineer, who is in charge of all our M&E design, and the coordination of live and upcoming projects with with Project Leads/Managers
With over a decade of experience in the industry, Calvin has worked for a range of consultancies on major projects, both in the UK and Worldwide.
Calvin is highly career-driven aiming to prove himself over the next ten years and reaching his goal of becoming a Senior Associate/Director.
Outside of work, Calvin is a keen space and universe enthusiast; he also practices coding using various languages to design, build and develop applications, websites, penetration testing and robotics engineering.
Over the last 14 years, Calvin has travelled to 91 countries and is determined to visit every country on the planet before he retires. His current favourite countries are Indonesia and Brazil.
Dr Jinlong Li is a Chartered Structural Engineer. With over 12 years of study/research experience at universities, Dr Li has a solid academic background covering a wide area of structural engineering, constitutive modelling, mechanics, advanced finite element modelling as well as practical design technics. His structural design experience covers civil and structural analysis and design, temporary works design, supervising and coordinating, structural appraisals, compliance with Eurocodes, British Standards, Codes of Practice, Highway and Railway Authority Standards, Network Rail CEM/CRE roles, Building Regulations and specifications, in the fields of building structures, highway and railway infrastructures such as footbridges, cycle hubs, station buildings, tunnels, arches and portals.
His industrial practice in the UK started in 2015 after obtaining his doctoral degree in Road Engineering at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands. He had broadened his design capacity matrix while working for SWECO and Laing O’Rourke briefly before he re-joined INVVU in 2022. Before joining the research group in TUD in 2009, he was a PhD candidate in the Research Institute of Structural Engineering and Disaster Reduction at Tongji University (Shanghai, China). He was yet a lecturer in Shanghai City College in the same year. He received a BEng with ‘First Class Honours’ in Civil Engineering in 2006 and MSc in Structural Engineering in 2008.
About INVVU, Jin says “INVVU has a good working atmosphere, supportive culture, bosses that care for you, great colleagues, fulfilling and interesting projects – I knew I would come back when I decided to widen my design experiences in other sectors, and I am glad that this day is sooner than I expected”.
Jin is happy to share that he is a “cook delayed by my structural engineering career”.
It is Yemi’s responsibility to provide solutions and to solve technical issues relating to the structural integrity of all INVVU projects.
Yemi was previously employed by vkhp-consulting, where he won an award from the Royal Tonbridge Wells Civil Society for his role on a domestic extension project.
He is another of our staff members who enjoys variety:
‘At INVUU, I have the ability to work on a variety of projects with other engineering professionals of various disciplines, all under one umbrella’.
Away from work, Yemi is a keen footballer and go-karting enthusiast.
With over 13 years of experience and qualifications in the construction industry, Daniel has worked in both the public and private sectors, specialising in drainage and highways, including using various modelling software and associated applications such as S278, S38 and S104. Daniel also brings over a decade of 2D and 3D CAD experience (and management). Over the last few years, he has developed his knowledge and experience in Project Management and Processes. He is keen to pass his knowledge and insight on to the next generation of Engineers.
The multidisciplinary nature of INVVU and the ability to work across various sectors was the clincher when deciding to work for INVVU. Also, INVVU’s commitment to career progression/development, and the organisational culture of prioritising the health and well-being of employees above all else, was also a strong draw for him.
Daniel has recently been accepted on to an MSc accredited CEng course which will broaden his knowledge to enable him to bring more to the team.
When not working, Daniel enjoys spending time with friends and family, has an allotment, and recently changed his sporting career from football to rugby! He is also a member of a weekly Darts and Pool Team.
Daniel is also a Vegan.
Meet Jorden Irwin our Civil and Pavement Engineer.
Jorden works on Local Authority contracts and Pavement Design.
Jorden’s interest in working for INVVU stemmed from the opportunity to work as part of a multidisciplinary team and to work on larger projects.
Before INVVU, Jorden was a Structural Engineer in the Residential sector and as a Technical Supervisor for Airfields.
With a keen interest in becoming Chartered and eventually moving into a Principal Engineering role, Jorden has a bright future.
Outside of work Jorden is a keen hiker, climber and reader, and said that he once forgot his own birthday; understandable, you might think, until you realise that Jorden is a twin!
Meet Tracey Smith our Commercial/QS.
Tracey has over 26 years in the construction industry, working for contractors and consultants, specialising in drainage and highways (S278, S38 and S106 works), utilities, buildings and, more recently, data centres.
Tracey’s experience extends from project conception with the cost plan right the way through to completion with the final account, and includes expertise in NEC and JCT Contracts.
Tracey was keen to work for INVVU, as it allows her to stay more local to her children, and believes that she can really make this role her own (we don’t doubt it for a minute 😊)
In her spare time, Tracey enjoys attending Beer Festivals and walking her two pugs. Last year she celebrated a significant birthday with a Fire Walk. 🔥
Meet Dan Russell our Undergraduate Civil Engineer
Dan is studying Civil Engineering BSc at Nottingham Trent University and is spending his 2023/24 gap year with us as an Undergraduate Civil Engineer
Dan’s interest in engineering developed from the subjects he most enjoyed at school; geography, maths and business, and Civil Engineering became his chosen direction, as
‘it impacts all structures and services around us, meaning I can physically see my work’.
Dan wants to get the most out of his gap year, and our multi-disciplinary approach at INVVU will provide him with a more rounded and greater insight into the industry.
Dan has fantastic aspirations for the future and says, ‘Structural engineering, along with project management, are areas that interest me. I aspire to help create massive structures and lead mega projects within the UK or worldwide.
Mountain biking is Dan’s number one outdoor pursuit, providing him with time outdoors, exercise and social time. It also links to the mechanics of bikes, including maintenance and upgrades as the technology of the sport progresses – which Dan has a keen interest in.
Meet our Architectural Technician Part 1 – Ketsara Lertpanyabuppa
Ketsara’s interest in Architecture developed from an early age and during her time in Thailand, where her family ran a construction business. Her formative years and interest in Art and Building Design made Architecture the perfect career path and led her to complete her BArch from De Montfort University, Leicester, in 2021
Ketsara looks forward to learning and developing her skills at INVVU, to help her become a fully qualified Architect; she is also keen to gain exposure to the other disciplines we have in-house, providing her with a rounded understanding of the construction design process.
Ketsara has many career aspirations, but her current goal is to become a fully qualified Architect; creating economical, functional, and meaningful designs/buildings.
Outside of work, Ketsara is a keen Photographer
Jamie is our Intermediate Building Services Engineer, and is responsible for the design of mechanical and electrical services required by our clients, using CAD and BIM software, this includes lighting, power, ventilation, fire alarms and water services.
Jamie has been working for INVVU since its formation in 2017 and particularly enjoys working within a multidisciplinary team, where ideas, knowledge and experience are shared.
Jamie is a keep-fit and gym enthusiast and has a passion for fast cars.
Alison is the all-round linchpin of our business, responsible for all aspects of our accounts as well as general administration and personnel duties. Like many of our team, she previously worked for Walker Construction and she describes us as ‘a nice team to work with.’
Alison used to work for a mail order company that sold first day covers and stamps. In this capacity, she got to meet a lot of famous people.
One of her most memorable moments, was – unwittingly – sitting down to breakfast at Wembley with Sir Geoff Hurst, while her star-struck colleagues watched on in awe, only letting her know who he was, when he left the table.
Meet our Administrator Emily King; who you’ll most likely speak to if you call our offices.
As well as directing calls Emily will also be assisting with purchase and subcontractor orders, logging new tenders, dealing with approved subcontractors and providing support to the Directors.
Emily has almost 11 years of construction industry experience, working previously as a pre-contract buyer, receptionist and administrator.
Outside of work Emily has a 2 year old son, who keeps her very busy.
Emily is also a Barista at Starbucks and makes a mean Caramel Macchiato.
Fiona joined INVVU in 2019 and now oversees all of our social media and marketing activities. She particularly likes the way that everyone supports one another:
‘It’s nice to work with an approachable, friendly team that really know their stuff. Although there are levels of management, there is no obvious hierarchy. It’s an open-door policy for everyone to ask questions and learn in order to maintain the success of the company.’
Esraa came to us for two weeks’ work experience in January 2019. At the time, she was a student at Dover College studying Electrical Engineering and working part time in McDonald’s. A career in Civil Engineering was not even on her radar – but she loved it.
Esraa is now employed full-time by INVUU, and having successfully completing her HNC in Civil Engineering is now a part time student in her second year at University, studying for her BEng in Civil Engineering. After her BEng her aim is to do her Masters.
‘Learning and working at the same time really works for me, as I can apply the theory learned at Uni to ‘real life’ projects. INVVU is behind me 100%, providing me with additional industry training… The whole team are helpful, supportive and are always happy to share their knowledge, skills and work processes.’
It’s great to see another woman entering the civil engineering world; especially one with Esraa’s commitment and talent.
Shane is our Senior Project Manager/Supply Chain Manager and is involved in working with Clients to help determine their requirements and briefs, preparing quotations, management of surveys, design and pre-construction activities, preparing, reviewing and updating programmes, cost control, construction stage support, management of appointed construction contractors, phase and project handovers and public, client and stakeholder’s liaison.
As well as this Shane also actively provides survey support to other members of the Invvu Team, working on different schemes.
Shane also manages our supply chain and is involved in the planning, scheduling, sourcing, evaluating and reviewing of new and existing suppliers. He is also responsible for ensuring all documentation is maintained; complying fully with company procedures, and audit requirements.
George is responsible for supervising all works taking place on site and for preparing written work packages ready for site works to begin.
George joined INVVU in 2019, having spent the previous seven years at Walker Construction UK Ltd.
He is English Cypriot, speaks two languages and enjoys annual visits to Cyprus, which he describes as his second home. In his spare time, George loves playing football and taking part in Motocross weekends with his friends.
Grant is our Intermediate Civil Engineer and is responsible for general technical design and project management; specialising in Traffic Management and Car Park/Road Layout Design. In this capacity, he works in close liaison with Local Authorities, Highways England and Network Rail.
Grant has worked for INVVU since the beginning, and before that for Walker Construction UK Ltd.
Before joining INVVU, George worked as a structural engineer for Jacobs, CH2M and Amey – with a focus on bridges. Prior to that, he explored BIM and digital communication in a three-year industry-based research project with Loughborough University and Asite Solutions.
George likes the multidisciplinary nature of INVVU and the opportunities to get involved with the various phases of a project’s lifecycle. He is especially keen to apply his knowledge and skills to Building Structures.
Since joining INVVU George has relocated to Kent and enjoys exploring the beautiful Kent countryside and coastline. His love of the natural world has fuelled a fascination for bio-inspired design, a methodology he is keen to apply to his future work.
Andrew is responsible for overseeing of all aspects of architectural design, from concept through to completion. Prior to joining us in 2009, he worked for John Floydd as a Part 1 Architectural Technician.
Andrew enjoys many aspects of working for INVVU including, the variety of projects undertaken and how we work together to make life easier for our clients. He says:
‘I enjoy working closely with the mix of specialists we have at INVVU. Having the ability to problem-solve together early on in the design process allows for the smooth delivery of projects for our clients. Working within such a friendly, approachable and cohesive team is another key benefit.’
In his spare time, Andrew sails dinghies – competing at a national level. He also shares his skills by teaching at his local sailing club.
Meet Daniel Peak, our Lead Revit / BIM Technician
Daniel joined INVVU in May 2022, and has been working in the construction industry for the past 8 years as an M&E Coordinator producing both 2D and 3D CAD / Revit drawings for site install. Previous to that Daniel was a Railway Track Surveyor. His HND in Building Surveying and BTEC in Construction is where his interest and use of CAD began, and let him on to using Revit. As Daniel says “I stopped surveying and took up drawing instead”.
Daniel is currently developing INVVU’s Revit and BIM capabilities, and enjoys working at INVVU which is closer to home and allows him to see more of his two young daughters.
When Daniel is not working, he’s being given the run around by his two girls. He also enjoys playing JRPG Video games, repairing / hacking gaming handhelds, and playing a trading card game called YU-GI-OH in local tournaments – he recently won an invite to the national tournament being held later this year. Good Luck Daniel!!
Meet Dan Rees our Senior Civil/Structural Technician including Revit Structures and 3D design.
Since Dan’s arrival at INVVU at the end of January 2024, he has seamlessly integrated into our team and hit the ground running.
With a background spanning various roles at Civil and Structural Consultancies, specialising in residential and commercial projects, Dan brings a wealth of experience and expertise.
Dan was attracted to INVVU by our reputation for fostering a friendly working environment, as well as being impressed by some of our award-winning projects.
Despite the significant commitment of starting a new role, Dan is also actively pursuing an EngTech MICE qualification. Good Luck Dan
James initially came to us from the University of Bath on a year-long industrial placement that formed part of his five-year ‘sandwich’ Masters in Civil Engineering. He then returned to his studies, whilst continuing to work for INVVU on a part time basis, helping with drawings/designs, report writing and survey supervision out on site. James is now with Invvu full-time once more, having completed his academic studies in the summer of 2022.
Looking ahead, James is hoping to develop his knowledge and skills in detailed structural design, exercise some aspects of management responsibility and progress his chartership applications with professional institutions such as the ICE and CIOB.
James says he feels extremely grateful for the learning opportunity INVVU provides him with, describing us as ‘a brilliant company to work for.’ (we think we’re lucky he came to us).
James is a huge football fan supporting both Liverpool and Bristol City. He has also played football competitively for Clevedon Town under18s and for Somerset FA county U18s. He also participated in cycle speedway in his younger years and won both regional and British championships – he even has British Cycling jersey.
Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to INVUU, notably in the railways sector but also across the residential, commercial, retail, community, heritage, hotel and leisure sectors.
He began his career as an apprentice bench joiner, progressed into site and contracts management and then onto architecture, where he could realise his passion for design. More recently, he worked as the Social and Commercial Development Manager for South Western Railway.
Steve’s varied experience as a client, contractor and consultant, provide him with a unique and valuable insight into the needs of customers, suppliers and collaborators from every angle.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, our hero Steve has also been working for St John Ambulance, supporting the NHS.
Gavin is responsible for the provision of structural design in concrete, steel, timber and masonry for buildings, bridges, civil engineering structures and temporary works. Design checking, including CAT I, II and III checks, is also part of his remit along with acting as CRE for rail projects. Finally, Gavin also supervises the Civil Engineer (SCE) for INVVU candidates on the ICE and IStructE IPD training programmes.
Gavin has worked with our team as a consultant for over five years. Prior to that, he spent ten years working for Tony Gee and Partners in Surrey, Kent and Hong Kong, having previously worked for Jeffares and Green Consulting Engineers in various offices in South Africa.
Gavin enjoys the collaborative nature of the INVVU team, which enables him to work remotely from Australia, where he is enjoying his semi-retirement in the sun. Somehow, he still finds time to play guitar in a band, to paddle his ‘fishing ski’, to walk, cycle, play golf and bomb about in his beloved MGB.
