In this series we find out more about some of the key people who give their time to support the JCT Young Professionals Group (JCT YPG). We will look at our interviewees’ background and how they got into the industry, the importance of their contribution to JCT YPG specifically, and gain their views on JCT’s wider role within the industry.
Christakis Miltiadous
Legal Counsel – Construction and Consulting | Bovis
JCT: Tell us a bit about your background. What is your current role, and why did you decide on a career in the construction industry?
I completed a law degree, an LLM in international commercial law, and then completed my LPC in London. My first exposure to construction was working within a digital editorial role. That role led me to find an in-house training contract at a French main contractor. A few years later, I joined Lendlease as Legal Counsel, and following the divestment of its construction business, I am now Legal Counsel at Bovis where I am firmly embedded within its construction and consulting business.
I didn’t necessarily choose or plan a career in construction, but, especially as you learn the intricacies of construction law as a discipline and get the opportunity to work on some very interesting projects, I am glad that my career has progressed in this direction. I am especially keen to bring these in-house insights to the JCT YPG and to help others navigate the practical side of construction law and understand how contracts play out on live projects.
JCT: How did you first come to be involved with JCT’s Young Professionals Group? Why do you think it is important to be involved with the new focus group?
I first learned about the JCT YPG from a former colleague. I already knew several of the volunteer leaders and I admired the initiative – I only wish it had been founded earlier, particularly when I was a junior lawyer.
The JCT YPG offers a great mix of networking and training events tailored to professionals in the construction industry. It’s a brilliant forum under the umbrella of one of the most widely recognised construction contract organisations in the industry.
JCT: Can you tell us about any specific work you’re currently doing that has any association to JCT and its contracts (e.g. any case studies/webinars/podcasts/blogs/vlogs)?
I use JCT contracts regularly — whether that’s building contracts, sub-contracts, or other standard forms. A good understanding of the strengths and limitations of different procurement routes goes hand in hand with knowledge of JCT contracts and there is always more to learn (and insights to share).
Since the legal landscape is constantly evolving, I value the opportunity to work closely with JCT and be part of those conversations around best practices.
JCT: Do you have any personal career highlights so far?
Definitely. Site visits and being involved in high-profile projects have been highlights. During my time at main contractors, I’ve had the chance to work on some incredible projects across the country. A few site visits stand out in particular — including projects for Google and the Houses of Parliament — experiences I’ll never forget.
JCT: What are you most proud of about the construction industry as a whole and where do you think it most needs to improve?
I am proud of the scale and ambition of the projects being delivered — especially in London, where I grew up. It’s inspiring to see the city continuously reshaped by innovative construction.
Productivity is a buzzword in construction. Improving productivity should be borne in mind as we work in the industry and I often ask myself how I can advise my in-house clients in the most competent and efficient way, with the ultimate goal of helping projects run smoothly and deliver value.
We are seeing more digital tools being used both on-site, and in the office, and I hope this momentum continues. Innovation will be essential in making construction smarter and more efficient and I am very curious to see what the next big ‘disruptor’ in the industry will be.
Sustainability is another critical area. I believe we can — and must — do more to set and achieve ambitious carbon targets and ensure that construction continues to evolve in a way that supports both people and the planet.
JCT: Does JCT and the Young Professionals Group have a wider role to play in the industry beyond producing contracts?
Absolutely. Producing contracts is only part of the picture — it’s just as important to ensure they’re properly understood and administered. That’s where the JCT and the YPG can make a huge impact, by offering training and producing practical guidance that supports both legal and non-legal professionals across the industry.