The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has begun its search for the UK’s finest construction manager of 2021, as nominations open for the annual Construction Manager of the Year Awards (CMYA).

Now in their 43rd year, the awards celebrate the talent of those who manage construction projects rather than the project itself.

Rigorous assessment by a panel of expert judges, including previous CMYA medalists, assess the performance of construction professionals in a range of categories, from infrastructure and residential to healthcare and commercial projects.

Winners are picked in each category and an overall Construction Manager of the Year is named.

Nominations are open until 19 March 2021. Enter here. Contenders can register themselves or be nominated by colleagues. There is no charge to enter.

“It has been called the Oscars of construction and is recognised as one of the most challenging and career-defining awards to win,” the CIOB said today.

In 2020 the finale went online as a virtual event owing to the pandemic, but the CIOB says it plans to return to a live gala at London’s JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel on 29 September 2021.

2020’s winner, Frank Connolly MCIOB of Mace Ltd, said: “I was over the moon to get a gold medal and to then win the overall was a bit surreal. It was a shock but I was amazed and delighted. It’s a fantastic award and a prestigious honour I dreamed of for many years. The CIOB did a fantastic job of it – it was seamless and planned really well.”

Caroline Gumble, Chief Executive of the CIOB, said: “The Construction Manager of the Year competition has always sought out the very best of leadership and talent in our sector. Even last year, when our sector and all those in it faced immense challenges, the line-up of finalists was incredibly impressive and a testament to the remarkable resilience of our industry.

“CMYA 2021 will be an important opportunity to celebrate the construction sector and the management talent working in it. I’m sure that, once again, we’ll see fierce competition from the finest construction managers in the industry, showcasing the highest levels of professionalism and commitment. I’m looking forward to seeing what this year’s competition brings.”

Visit the awards site for more information.

Image: Prof. Charles Egbu, CIOB President 2019-20, addresses the 2019 CMYA gala event in London (CIOB)