As a Cost Manager at Gleeds, Bilal Nafees Shaikh plays a crucial role in overseeing the pre-contract works for several giga projects as part of the KSA's vision for 2030.
Bilal's day is a mix of technical tasks, brainstorming sessions with his team, attending meetings, and prioritising project tasks based on their current phase.
I find motivation in learning and embracing new challenges. Being in cost management allows me to continuously develop new skills and take on more responsibilities, which gives me a sense of accomplishment.
Bilal's love for numbers drew him to the cost management sector, where he thrives on crunching data and providing valuable insights. Gleeds, with its global presence and exciting project portfolio, was an appealing choice for him.
Working at Gleeds allows me to be part of iconic projects and collaborate with some of the best minds in the industry. The supportive environment and guidance from colleagues make it even better.
When asked about Gleeds' values, Bilal emphasises the importance of delivering value to clients and taking responsibility for it. He advises newcomers to stay persistent and focused on their goals, despite obstacles they may encounter along the way.
Outside of work, Bilal is an avid cricket fan and enjoys exploring different cuisines at restaurants. He also keeps up with architectural and construction trends, drawing inspiration from innovative ideas to bring value to clients.
Reflecting on his career path, Bilal admits, "If I hadn't pursued cost management, I might have pursued a career in sports, but laziness held me back." Despite this, Bilal finds fulfilment in his current role, where he continues to excel and make valuable contributions to Gleeds' success story.