How do they do it? David Bainbridge

Bidwells' partner David Bainbridge has been a chartered town planner since 1999 and has just celebrated 10 years at the consultancy. Before switching to the private sector he had planning roles at Milton Keynes Council and Northampton Borough Council.

Q. What are your objectives in your current role and how are you measured against them?

My role is to lead the planning teams in Milton Keynes and St Albans offices liaising with team leaders in our other office locations. Understanding and delivering clients’ objectives is the most important part of my role, by that I mean overarching business objectives and for individual properties. I am measured on client-care objectives - that is, how we have performed against the brief.

Q. What key lessons have you learned during your career that help you to fulfil those objectives?

A. Take time to listen to clients and professional contacts. It sounds obvious, but is so important. Keep switched on and listen at all times during face-to-face meetings and in phone discussions.

Think of the bigger picture. Time is needed to reflect upon what has been done and what needs to be done to continue to make positive progress.

Enjoy working with clients and colleagues. There is much to be gained from looking up from the computer or mobile device, taking a deep breath and having a smile.