Meet the Team: Scott Smith, Building Control Manager

We’re delighted to welcome Scott Smith, MCABE C.Build E IEng, as Building Control Manager, leading our new Sheffield office. With over 35 years of industry experience, Scott brings a wealth of knowledge, strong client relationships, and a track record of delivering trusted building control services.

The Sheffield office represents Harwood’s continued expansion across the UK, joining our established locations in Canterbury and Milton Keynes. This strategic growth strengthens our ability to provide responsive, localised support to clients across Sheffield, Leeds, and the wider North – ensuring projects in the region receive the same trusted, high-quality service Harwood is known for nationwide.

What experience do you bring to support our clients?

I’ve spent over three decades in the industry, working in both commercial management and building control roles.

I began my career in building control, which gave me a wide network of contacts across the construction industry. In the early 2000s, I also spent five years in site management, which gave me a perspective of the construction industry from both sides of the fence. Over the years, I’ve held senior roles at building control firms, working closely with contractors, architects, and developers on a wide range of projects. These have included large-scale commercial developments, retail and leisure rollouts, and architecture-led schemes, giving me a broad perspective on how different sectors operate and what clients need from a building control partner.

I’ve always placed huge importance on client service; many of my clients have stayed with me through different stages of my career because they know what to expect: consistency, reliability, and an honest, straightforward approach.

How does Harwood Sheffield strengthen services for the region?

Harwood has a strong reputation for client service and technical expertise. What stood out to me was the company’s ambition to keep expanding while staying true to its values – being responsive, collaborative, and focused on quality.

Opening the Sheffield office is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen Harwood’s presence in the North and ensure our clients here have local, hands-on support with the backing of a national network. It’s about being close to where projects are happening and delivering a service that feels personal as well as professional.

A big part of my career has been about building relationships and ensuring clients get the service level they expect. That’s something I’m proud to continue here at Harwood – and it’s encouraging to see the company invest in regions like Sheffield, where demand for quality building control services is growing rapidly.

Read about our Sheffield expansion here: Harwood expands further with new Sheffield regional office

How have your first few weeks been?

It’s been a busy and positive start. I’ve already had conversations with long-standing contacts, and I’m pleased to say some projects are already coming in from clients such as Magrock, HTC Architects, and BoyleSports. That shows the trust and confidence they have in both me and Harwood’s wider service offering, and it highlights the strength of demand for our services in this part of the country.

With our Sheffield office up and running, clients know they now have a dedicated team here in the region. It’s a strong start, and I’m looking forward to building from here.

What are your priorities for delivering value to clients?

My focus is on building up the Sheffield office into a strong regional hub. That means developing lasting client relationships, supporting projects across the North, and ensuring that every client receives the same high standard of service Harwood is known for nationwide.

I’m also excited about the team we’re building. I’ve already been joined by Charlotte Turner, Building Control Surveyor, whose technical expertise and enthusiasm are proving invaluable. Together, we’re committed to offering the responsive, practical, and clear advice that clients rely on to keep their projects moving.

Longer term, it’s about not only serving clients but also sharing knowledge and being a resource to the industry. I’m passionate about maintaining high standards in building control and happy to offer CPD and knowledge sessions – something I want both clients and colleagues to benefit from as we continue to expand.

Looking ahead

The opening of Sheffield is another big step in Harwood’s national expansion. With myself and Charlotte Turner leading the team here, clients across the North can expect a local, personal service backed by the strength of Harwood’s wider network and national expertise.

We’re here to meet the increasing demand for building control services in the region, and to build strong, lasting relationships based on trust, clarity, and professional excellence.

Connect with Scott on LinkedIn or contact the Sheffield office on 0114 321 8999