CIOB Construction Manager of the Year 2025: Good luck to our finalists!

As the industry prepares for the 47th CIOB Construction Manager of the Year awards next week, we caught up with our amazing finalists to get their thoughts on their nomination for this year’s awards.

Jason Sims, Project Director

Finalist for Construction Manager of the Year, Commercial & Leisure

Jason has been nominated for his role as Project Director at Bradford Council and Muse Development’s One City Park, Bradford’s first Grade A office development in two decades. Of his nomination, Jason said: “I’ve worked at Caddick for nearly 40 years, starting as an apprentice joiner in 1986, and the pride I take in my work has never changed in that time.

“Caddick has a very good reputation for quality and I take my role in that seriously. When we’re given a project, our job is to always deliver it to the best standard we can, putting safety first and looking after each other. The most rewarding projects are always the most challenging because it gives us as a team the chance to really think about what is needed to get the job done, and when you see the finished building standing before you it makes everything worth it. I’m very proud to have my work at One City Park in Bradford recognised by Caddick and the CIOB, and I wish all the nominees well in the upcoming awards. Jason Sims, Project Director

Andy Canning, Construction Manager

Finalist for Construction Manager of the Year, Accommodation - Low Rise

Andy has been shortlisted for his leadership of Lever Gardens Court, a new extra care development in Bolton on behalf of Bolton at Home. Andy commented: “It is an honour to be recognised for this award. To have been successful in the judging process and to make it through to the awards ceremony feels like a great achievement.

“I believe in working in partnership and that applies to the Caddick team, our clients and our suppliers. If we have positive relationships, we can find solutions together. Projects have a lot of complexities and the best way to overcome these challenges is by being collaborative.” Andy Canning, Construction Manager

James Darbyshire, Site Manager

Finalist for Rising Star

As Site Manager at Plank Lane, James excelled as a knowledgeable, efficient and professional member of the team and was fundamental to the success of new development, delivered on behalf of Torus. James said: “I’m thankful to Bill Metcalfe and Andy Canning for nominating me and seeing the potential in me; I’d like to think it demonstrates my commitment to delivering projects and my potential for future growth and leadership.

“It’s humbling to be considered among such a talented group of professionals. For me personally, it’s a very inspiring nomination, which encourages me to pursue further knowledge and experience and ultimately rise to senior level construction management. I’m proud to be part of Caddick, a company that values talent, performance, perseverance and maintains a family orientated attitude. They have been and continue to be, a fantastic company to work for. I look forward to the future and where this will inspire me to go next. I have just completed my NVQ Level 7 in senior management and will be looking at becoming a member of the CIOB next.” James Darbyshire, Site Manager