Working at Linkcity: Q&A with Colin Munro
One of the best things about Linkcity is our people. To celebrate this, we have launched a series of Q&As to showcase our diverse, talented team and the variety of roles available here. This time, we hear from Colin Munro, a Development Manager at Linkcity.
Tell us a bit about you and your role.
I’m a Development Manager in the Linkcity team. This involves leading the development process from site identification through to the commencement of the works on site. We also keep an active role through the construction and completion phase providing support to our site operations team.
What do you do in your day to day?
The diversity of the working day is what I enjoy most about this job. On any given day I could be progressing a planning application with our design team, analysing values and inputs for our development appraisal and cash flow, or negotiating development contracts.
What’s the biggest challenge in your role?
The biggest challenge is to be able to effectively jump between all the different workstreams, stakeholders and markets to ensure you can align all interests to make the project a success.
What are you most proud of since starting out at Linkcity?
Reaching close on our Riverside development in Canterbury. It is a very complex scheme and deal structure that pulls together three investors to deliver a mixed-use neighbourhood of commercial, student accommodation and residential. It’s the final element of the Council’s plans for regenerating the Northgate area of Canterbury. You can really see how it’s going to bring positive transformation to the area.
What is a common misconception about your role?
There are many misconceptions about development managers and the role. There is a perception that we are only interested in the short-term outcomes of our projects. I would say that the most successful developments are projects that focus on generating a positive and long-term legacy for local communities.
What has been the biggest challenge over the last 18 months?
We would normally resolve so many problems and generate ideas through spontaneous conversations in the office. It has been a real challenge to replicate this type of environment remotely. We have certainly improved on various digital platforms, but I’m looking forward to returning to the office and collaborating with the team again.
What do you like most about working at Linkcity?
The team ethic. We look out for each other and there’s a great spirit that makes work much more enjoyable and helps to take the edge off the more stressful moments.
How do you see life at Linkcity this time next year?
I have no doubt that we will be making the most of working together in person, but also working in an environment that recognises that there can be many advantages and efficiencies in working from home.
