In this episode, Greg Wilkes chats with Jamie Mills, founder of Signature Build, to unpack how he grew a one-man renovation sideline into a multi-million-pound contractor trusted with London’s most prestigious heritage homes. From risky buy-outs to razor-sharp branding, Jamie lays out the real-world moves that turned early hustle into sustainable, high-margin growth. 

🔹 Key topics covered:

✅ Starting with modest refurb jobs and networking his way into Prime Central London work 
✅ Buying out a business partner—the due diligence, the nerves, and the upside of full control 
✅ How a mastermind community gave weekly structure, accountability, and the push to “stop playing small” 
✅ Turning brand touchpoints—from site cleanliness to online presence—into a magnet for high-end clients and architects 
✅ Fixing under-pricing: building in proper prelims and margins without scaring off prospects 
✅ Hiring “rocket-fuel” talent and learning to delegate so the business can scale beyond the owner 
✅ Simple ways to solve problems for referrers and lock in repeat work 
✅ Jamie’s next steps—regional expansion, apprenticeships, and giving back through community projects 

If you’re stuck juggling every role, under-charging, or struggling to break into higher-value projects, Jamie’s story proves you can level up your margins and your market position—without losing the craft you care about. Tune in and map out your own path from small-scale builder to respected industry player. 🎧🔨

https://www.signature.build/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/signaturebuild/

https://www.instagram.com/signature.build/

https://www.signature.build/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Signature-Build-Brochure-2024-Digital-1.pdf

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

In this episode, Greg Wilkes sits down with David Hernandez, Managing Director of North America for Elecosoft (Loft), to explore how 4D construction planning is reshaping project delivery — making jobs smoother, faster, and far more efficient. If you’re tired of project chaos, constant firefighting, and unpredictable schedules, this episode introduces a powerful tech-driven solution that doesn’t just look impressive — it works in real-world construction.

🔹 Key topics covered:

✅ Why most tech investments in construction fail — and how to fix your process before the platform
✅ What 4D planning really means (and no, it’s not just for big commercial contractors)
✅ How to go from a 3D BIM model to a complete project schedule in minutes
✅ The truth about AI in construction — what’s hype, what’s real, and what you should focus on first
✅ The power of standardised data, cross-team alignment, and proactive scheduling
✅ How small contractors can use 4D tools to win high-end jobs and separate from the pack
✅ The importance of building with the future in mind — from scalable systems to a strong digital brand
✅ Real case studies of contractors using 4D tools to improve reliability, reduce delays, and win better projects

If you're overwhelmed by disconnected spreadsheets, rework, or missed deadlines — this episode offers a new way to lead your builds with clarity and confidence. Learn how to use the right tech to scale smarter, not harder. 🎧🔧

----

Website - https://elecosoft.com/us/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hernandez-4036264b/ 

Resources to Promote - https://elecosoft.com/us/support/ 

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

In this episode, Greg Wilkes lays out a clear framework for construction business owners to identify when it’s time to bring in a Project Manager – and how doing so can transform your operations, profit, and personal life. If you're overwhelmed and your business feels stuck or chaotic, this episode gives you the insight to know when and how to act.

🔹 Key topics covered:

✅ The five telltale signs you need a Project Manager – from constant interruptions to stagnant growth
✅ How doing everything yourself leads to delays, mistakes, and mental burnout
✅ Why hiring a PM is not a luxury but a strategic necessity for growth beyond the million-pound mark
✅ What a good PM should be responsible for – from managing trades to tracking variations and client updates
✅ Common hiring mistakes to avoid – like promoting a loyal tradie who isn’t suited to PM responsibilities
✅ Tips for hiring right – including interview questions, setting clear responsibilities, and trial periods
✅ The power of proactive project leadership – how the right PM creates smoother jobs, happier clients, and frees up your time
✅ Real-life examples of how a PM can prevent missed orders, over-budget jobs, and communication breakdowns

If you’re constantly firefighting, missing important details, or stuck at the same revenue ceiling month after month – this episode is a wake-up call. Greg shows you how hiring the right Project Manager isn't just about efficiency; it’s about taking back control, reducing stress, and finally building the business you've envisioned. 🎧🛠️

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

In this episode, Greg lays out a powerful plan for construction business owners who want to stop working on the tools and start leading like a true CEO. If you’re still swinging a hammer and chasing jobs day-to-day, this episode will help you shift gears – practically and mentally – so you can build a business that runs without you.

🔹 Key topics covered:

✅ Why staying on the tools damages your health, limits your income, and chips away at your confidence
✅ The three big myths that keep builders stuck – "I'll save money", "no one meets my quality", and "I can't afford to step away"
✅ Simple maths to calculate how many tradespeople you need before you can stop working on site
✅ The mindset shift from tradesperson to business owner – and how to visualise your new role
✅ Step-by-step transition plan – how to gradually move from full-time on site to full-time CEO
✅ How to avoid micromanaging – and empower your team to perform without you
✅ What life looks like after stepping off the tools – more freedom, better health, higher profits

If you’re tired of cement-stained jeans and working long hours just to keep the business going, this episode gives you a clear and proven roadmap to reclaim your time, health, and freedom. 🎧🏗️

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

In this episode, Greg shares a practical roadmap for construction business owners who want to escape daily operations by building a team that runs the business without them. He breaks down the key shifts required to scale beyond £1 million, reduce stress, and reclaim personal freedom.

🔹 Key topics covered:
✅ Why most construction businesses rely too heavily on the owner – And how this limits growth and lifestyle
✅ The 3 biggest mistakes that create owner-dependency – Hiring workers, lacking systems, and micromanagement
✅ How to hire and develop leaders – From site supervisors to project managers
✅ Creating SOPs – Systemising your business with easy-to-follow processes
✅ Delegation in construction – How to step back without losing control
✅ Real-world success story – How George systemised his joinery business and took a stress-free honeymoon

If you’re a construction business owner feeling stuck in day-to-day tasks, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help you delegate, lead, and grow your business without burning out. 🎧🔥

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

In this episode, Greg sits down with Deb Madden, Executive Director at CITB, and Nathan Wilkins, Customer Engagement Manager, to uncover how construction business owners can access CITB funding to train, upskill, and grow their teams. They break down exactly how to claim grants, access training, and make the most of CITB support.

🔹 Key topics covered:
✅ What is CITB? – How it helps small and medium construction businesses
✅ Apprenticeships & funding – Up to £10,000 available per apprentice 💰
✅ Training grants & leadership courses – How to upskill your team for free
✅ Levies explained – What you pay vs. what you can claim
✅ Tackling the skills shortage – Why the industry needs 250,000+ workers and how businesses can benefit

If you’re a construction business owner looking to train your team, take on apprentices, or claim funding you didn’t know existed, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧🔥

Book a call with your local CITB Advisor today. You can find their contact details here:  CITB in your local area - CITB

If you’d like to do some research beforehand on the support available, here are some useful links: 

• Grants and available funding:  Grants & Funding for Training Courses - CITB
• £500 grant for hosting a construction student on work-experience:  Into Work grant - CITB
• Support with recruitment of an apprentices:  New Entrant Support Team - CITB
• Apprenticeship grant details:  Apprenticeship grants - CITB
• CITB levy calculator:  Levy Calculator (Guide for What You May Pay) - CITB
• Construction Career portal ‘GoConstruct’:  Construction Is A Career Like No Other | Go Construct
• Skill shortage information: CSN Industry Outlook - 2024-2028 - CITB

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

Protect Your Profit Margin with Greg Wilkes

In this episode, Greg dives deep into how to protect and increase your profit margins in construction. He breaks down the biggest margin killers, the difference between gross vs. net profit, and the strategies you need to ensure your business stays profitable.

🔹 Key topics covered:
✅ Common mistakes that eat into your profits
✅ The difference between markup vs. margin (and why it matters)
✅ How to accurately track job costs in real time
✅ Negotiating better supplier rates & payment terms
✅ The importance of cash flow management & planning

If you’re a contractor or construction business owner looking to increase profits without taking on more work, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧🔥

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

Thinking about moving to Australia as a tradesperson? In this episode, Greg sits down with Wes Zandt from the Downunder Centre to break down the exact steps to migrate successfully. From visa options and skills assessments to the emotional challenges of relocation, they cover everything you need to know.

🔹 Key topics covered:
✅ Skilled visas vs. employer sponsorship
✅ What trades are in demand
✅ How to pass skills assessments
✅ Common mistakes & how to avoid them
✅ Emotional & financial considerations

If you're serious about working in Australia or hiring skilled tradespeople, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧🔥

Websites:

• DUC website - main hub for skills assessments, visas and general migration advice - Emigrate to Australia - Visas & Skills Assessment - Down Under Centre 
• DUC Employment Hub - main hub for candidates to register and apply for job vacancies, and for employers to sign up with us to market their jobs - ducemploymenthub.com
• DUC Relocation Hub - A Website built by migrants for migrants, designed to assist with the relocation process - DUC Relocation Hub – This is a unique, one-of-a-kind site. Built by Migrants, for Migrants!

Social media:

• DUC Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/downundercentre_
• DUC Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/downundercentre
• DUC Relocation Hub Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ducrelocationhub
• DUC Podcast - https://tr.ee/_9QY0uJMD6

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https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

In this insightful episode, Greg sits down with Paul Heming, founder of C-Link, to explore the challenges of subcontractor procurement and how technology can transform the process. Paul shares his journey from being a Quantity Surveyor to creating a software platform that streamlines procurement workflows for construction businesses.

💡 What You’ll Learn:
✅ The key inefficiencies in subcontractor procurement and how to fix them 🛠️
✅ How standardising tenders benefits both subcontractors and main contractors 🤝
✅ The game-changing role of AI in analyzing tenders and contracts efficiently 🔍
✅ Tips for subcontractors to maximise their chances of winning tenders 🏗️

Paul also discusses C-Link’s powerful features, such as prequalification tools, contract standardisation, and post-project analysis to help businesses scale effectively. Whether you’re a small developer, subcontractor, or a main contractor, this episode is packed with actionable insights to make procurement faster, smarter, and more profitable.

• LinkedIn Personal
• LinkedIn C-Link
• To book a demo - email [email protected] or book directly here - https://c-link.com/book-demo/
• Free Cost Planning Tool

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

🎙️ Unlock the Power of Safety in Your Business! 🚧

In this game-changing episode, Greg sits down with Gavin Coyle, a global leader in safety and efficiency for construction businesses. Gavin shares his inspiring journey from the construction trenches in Ireland to revolutionizing how safety is perceived worldwide.

💡 What You’ll Learn:
✅ How to turn safety into a profit-driving machine 💰
✅ Practical tips for embedding safety into your company culture 🛠️
✅ Secrets to aligning your entire team around safety and success 🔑

Whether you’re just starting out or managing multimillion-dollar projects, this episode will give you the tools to make safety simple, scalable, and profitable.

🎧 Listen now and level up your safety game!

🌟 Explore Gavin’s Free Resources & Memberships:

📚 Always Free Safety Tools: gavin-coyle.com/always-free
👥 Membership for Small to Large Businesses: gavin-coyle.com/membership

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator