What is your role and what does it involve?

I’m one of the co-founders here at Jensen Hunt Design, alongside Alex. So, naturally, we’re responsible for running the business—making sure it’s financially viable, bringing in work, and creating a great place to work. We want it to be both a fun and fulfilling environment.

A big part of my role is defining our vision and ensuring we stay on track to achieve it—which is definitely easier said than done! That’s something every business owner faces: balancing personal ambition with the goals of the company and the people in it. I also focus on keeping everyone engaged and making sure their individual aspirations align with the bigger picture. So, in a nutshell, that’s what I’d say my main role is at JHD.

Can you describe your career journey so far?

Yeah, my career has been full of changes and leaps into the unknown. I started in a fairly traditional way—got my degree, landed a graduate job, and spent the first few years working towards my chartership. 

But after nearly ten years in the industry, I felt like I needed a change. So, I stepped away from construction and moved into marine contracting. That was a huge shift—I left employment to work for myself in a completely new role. I had no idea how to do it at first, but I learned on the job. It was challenging, but also really exciting and gave me a lot of confidence.

After five or six years in marine contracting, I made another big move—this time, out of the city to rural Norfolk. That meant starting over again. I set up my own structural engineering business, which led me to reconnect with Alex. We merged our small businesses and built Jensen Hunt Design together. That was nearly ten years ago now.

Since then, we’ve created new opportunities, like Viridipath, which has taken me in yet another new direction. So, I’d say my career has been about making bold decisions, following my instincts, and not being afraid to step into something new.

What’s your biggest achievement in your career so far?

Oh, that’s a great question. There are so many moments that stand out.

I think chartership was my first major achievement—I was really proud of how I approached it and got it right the first time. That was a big milestone for me.

But honestly, every time I’ve chosen to change direction, I see that as an achievement. It takes courage to step away from stability and try something new.

In the last couple of years, though, I’d say finding real purpose in my work has been my biggest achievement. It’s shaped how I see Jensen Hunt Design, the new opportunities we’re developing, and even my personal outlook. A lot of people don’t take the time to step back and ask themselves why they do what they do. I’ve done that, and it’s changed everything for me. It’s a tough, deeply personal process, but when you figure it out, it’s a huge achievement.

What advice would you give to someone taking their first steps into the industry?

Be inquisitive. Stay open to learning. Be ready for challenges.

Engineering is a tough, technical job, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. At its core, it’s about solving problems, and there’s nothing quite like the feeling of cracking a complex challenge.

You need a broad skill set and the ability to adapt, but if you’re willing to learn and embrace everything that comes your way, it’s an amazing industry to be part of.

What do you think are the biggest challenges within the industry, and what can we do to change them?

There are so many challenges, but I see two major ones.

First, the industry needs to evolve—especially in terms of sustainability. There’s a long way to go before we can call it truly sustainable, let alone regenerative. Reducing carbon and environmental impact is a massive challenge. There are plenty of people working hard to make it happen, but the built environment is complex, and change is slow. That’s a huge hurdle to overcome.

Second, there’s the issue of perceived value. Structural engineers, architects, and sustainability consultants are expected to do a lot more than they used to—often for the same fees. That’s a problem. If we don’t protect the value of our work, it gets eroded over time.

The industry needs a collective voice. We have to show the value we bring and push back against the expectation of “more for less.” If we don’t, it’s dangerous—not just for us but for the future of the industry.

What’s your biggest passion outside of work?

It’s hard to pick just one!

But I’d say being in nature and staying active. Whether it’s running, cycling, or just being outdoors, that’s when I feel the most relaxed and clear-headed.

Of course, my family is my biggest priority, but outside of that, being in nature is what keeps me grounded.

What’s a surprising fact not many people know about you?

I’m an identical twin!

How would you describe yourself in three words (or emojis)?

Impulsive, determined and passionate.