Leadership and Management at KK

We're passionate about nurturing our future leaders and managers, so they feel equipped to lead from the front and champion the KK Way. But you don’t need to take our word for it. We’re shining the light on our people so you can hear directly from them what it’s like at KK.

A graduate of the business nine years ago, Cara provides insight into her journey at KK.

Can you tell us a bit about your career? Where did you start and what do you do now?

I joined the Ringwood office as a Technologist in July 2014 after one year at a practice in Northern Ireland. Over the past 9 years I have had a vast amount of experience in education and higher education projects and in more recent years healthcare. I have just been promoted to Project Director of the Ringwood architecture/technology team.

Why Kendall Kingscott?

The variety of projects that I would get to work on is what initially attracted me to Kendall Kingscott after a year of very similar projects at my previous practice. I liked the small practice feel to the business.

The people that I work with and the progression opportunities are why I still love working at KK.

What are the highlights of your career so far?

Highlights have been working on a new ED department at Southampton General which was delivered during the Covid lockdowns and the successful completion of a very difficult refurbishment and recladding scheme of a chemistry building at the University of Southampton.

How has/is KK supporting your transition into management?

My transition into management has been a gradual ongoing process. I have always been interested in the management role and company supported training courses such as IMPACT, have helped me develop. I’ve also benefited from sessions alongside other Directors to understand the requirements of the role and gaining a better understanding of fees, strategy and resourcing.

What do you enjoy most about your current role?

Supporting the people I work with and seeing the development of graduate/new staff as well as assisting with the progression of staff that are working towards a management role.

What advice would you share with someone considering this pathway?

It’s a gradual progression with lots of support and training to ensure you have the right skills for the role so if interested go for it. You won’t be expected to run before you can walk.

What keeps you busy outside of work?

Thai boxing and hiking keeps me busy outside of work, but more recently it has been wedding planning.