Continuing our series on key women in estimating, we explore the journey of Denisa Lupescu who has made significant contribution within the Barhale estimating team. Denisa started her career with Barhale in 2017, after leaving another civil engineering company where she had worked for a year and admits this gave her, her first taste of cost estimating. This provided her with a great foundation for her future career. Prior to this, she completed a civil engineering degree in 2016 at Gheorghe Asachi University in Romania.

Motivation for joining Barhale and becoming an estimator

Denisa explains her motivation to making the move to Barhale. “The main factor for joining Barhale was from my friend and University colleague who was already working at Barhale. His positive feedback and the company’s strong reputation caught my interest. Moving to the UK and taking on the challenge of succeeding in a different country was not something I had initially planned, but the opportunity arose and I decided to embrace it. The role of an estimator seemed like the perfect fit, combining my technical skills with my interest in project planning.”

A day in the life of…

Denisa’s day-to-day responsibilities include analysing project specifications, conducting site visits and collaborating with site teams to prepare detailed cost estimates. Denisa also researches material costs, engages with subcontractors, planning works and other budget factors. Additionally, she meets with clients to discuss project scope and addresses concerns that they may have. No two days are the same and she enjoys the variety that each day brings.

Highlights and challenges

The most significant challenge for Denisa has been adapting to a new country with its unique legislation and estimating methods, which she has had to get used to. However, in terms of highlights, she details a notable high point in her career, “In 2019, I received an early careers commendation during the Barhale Three Pillar Annual Awards, recognising my dedication and acheivement in my job.”

Her journey so far…

Denisa is enjoying the journey so far, although it has been challenging but rewarding, she recognises the opportunities she has had for personal growth. She states: “the job is dynamic and keeps me on my toes, which I really appreciate. There is always something new to learn and that keeps it exciting.”

Training opportunities and long term goals

“During my time at Barhale, I’ve attended various training courses including contract management risk assessment and specific training supporting the work that I do for the Candy CCS estimating and P6 for planning project software. In addition to this, I have attended workshops for a variety of different work-related training and I have completed an estimating course.” Denisa’s long term goals include advancing to a senior estimating role, which would provide an opportunity to take on larger and more complex projects. She is also interested in mentoring junior estimators . She readily admits she want to become an expert in her field, contributing even more to the success of the projects she works on.

Interests and hobbies

Beyond work, Denisa is fascinated by human psychology and behaviour. “I’m particularly interested in how our actions influence others. I also like to delve into the concept of energy within the body and its impact on well-being.” Denisa is dedicated to personal development and is continuously seeking opportunities for growth. Personally, she is passionate about yoga, enjoys taking long walks and loves going on holiday to explore new places and making lasting memories with her family.

Nick Piggott, bid manager (southern region) and Denisa’s line manager has been supporting Denisa throughout her time in the estimating department: “Denisa joined the southern estimating team about six years ago and despite not having much site experience, she has really embraced the estimating role, asking question of those with key experience and researching constructing techniques and key suppliers/sub contractors. Denisa has great attention to detail, is very professional and has become a valued, reliable and key member of the southern team.”

As an organisation where people are our DNA, we continue to support Denisa in her role and her future with Barhale and are excited to see where she takes her career, whilst playing a key part in nurturing her journey.