Advisory Services Provider of the Year

Ardent

The gap between the granting of Development Consent Orders (DCOs) and the delivery of major projects has, for too long, caused issues and delays as the team tasked with construction tries to translate a complex, legal document into something practical.Ardent’s Consents Management Consultancy (CMC) is providing a unique, specialist service within the major infrastructure market that is playing a crucial role in bridging that gap between planning consent and construction delivery.The company, which has offices across the UK and specialisms in transport, utilities, renewables and regeneration, was part of the team to achieve a DCO at Sizewell C and remains part of the project team to support delivery.It has been commissioned to provide the same service for the Great Grid Upgrade and, with more than 150 new DCOs in the pipeline, the CMC team is anticipating a busy period ahead.

Bird & Bird

Bird & Bird have changed the approach to procurement in major civil engineering projects. Our unique strength lies in our dual perspective: advising procurers and bidders, providing invaluable insight for effective strategies and streamlined, commercially-focused solutions. Industry demanded change and over the past 18 months we've delivered our "client of choice" philosophy, fostering collaborative relationships and optimising flexible procurement processes for better value, stronger relationships, and increased innovation. Our approach embeds contracting which facilitates continuous improvement in key areas such as sustainability and innovation.Our major highways experience is unparalleled. We've led multi-disciplinary teams, advising local governments on over £6 billion in highways procurements. From Surrey's £1.4bn "Pathfinder" project to ongoing work in Suffolk, Hertfordshire, and beyond, our proven approach delivers successful outcomes welcomed by local authorities and bidders across the civil engineering industry. This success extends internationally, shaping infrastructure in Bahrain, Iceland, Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, and Australia.

Bourton Group

Bourton Group has played a pivotal role in advising and supporting National Highways in the development and enhancement of their Supply Chain over the past 18 months. As a trusted advisory services provider, we have demonstrated exceptional expertise, collaboration, and commitment in refining key assessment frameworks that drive efficiency, quality, and maturity within the construction and civil engineering sector. Our contributions span three critical areas:• Highways Excellence Lean Maturity Assessment (HELMA) framework review and refresh• Development of a Quality Maturity Model for National Highways• Review and enhancement of the National Highways Supplier Development System (SDS)These initiatives have resulted in significant improvements in how National Highways and its supply chain partners measure, evaluate, and enhance their operational effectiveness. Our efforts have not only benefited individual suppliers but have also contributed to the long-term resilience and sustainability of the whole sector.

Ian Cheveau Marketing Consultancy

In just 8 months, my construction marketing agency has transformed PAS NW Ltd from an under-the-radar civil engineering firm into a high-profile industry leader. Despite its £34m turnover, PAS lacked visibility and direction in marketing—until I stepped in.Through a bold rebrand, a new high-performance website attracting 1,000+ visitors per week, and a 693% surge in social media visibility, PAS is now firmly on the map. Major industry publications have featured the business, client recognition has skyrocketed, and enhanced site and safety communications have reinforced professionalism across projects.Our work has directly impacted business growth, contributing to PAS securing major tenders—including a potential £20m project in Cheshire. While operational excellence is key, the MD has no doubt that our marketing strategy has played a massive role in shifting perceptions, securing opportunities, and positioning PAS against national competitors who were once seen as unbeatable.

Stantec

Stantec, a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting, provides comprehensive advisory services to enhance communities and drive growth. Their strategic advice optimises client programmes, identifies significant cost reductions, and promotes sustainable solutions. Stantec's whole life service offering spans from project conception to commissioning, ensuring quality and efficiency at every stage. Their customer-centric approach supports clients in achieving sustainability and social value goals. Stantec's deep industry knowledge and innovative methods consistently deliver impactful results.

Tungsten Capital International

The UK construction sector is at something of a breaking point, with insolvencies up 17% year-on-year and cash flow pressures at an all-time high.Tungsten Capital International is tackling this crisis head-on, expanding its Claims Funding initiative to help SME contractors and sub-contractors recover entitlements without upfront costs.By providing off-balance-sheet financing and success-based fee structures, we’ve enabled firms to pursue over £20 million in claims without financial risk.With £15 million in new funding secured in 2024, Tungsten Capital International is ensuring businesses stay solvent, unlock rightful compensation, and navigate uncertainty with confidence.Our innovative approach empowers contractors to reclaim what they’re owed, allowing them to focus on project delivery rather than financial strain.We are committed to reshaping the landscape of claims recovery, providing businesses with the tools they need to thrive, even in the most challenging economic environments.