RICS in Oman: “AI in construction: Risk or Opportunity?”

James Garner

Senior Director at Gleeds, Global Head of Data, Insights & Analytics, Data IQ 100 2023, BSc (Hons), FRICS, RITTECH, AMBCS

James, an accomplished data leader in the construction industry, began his journey as a Quantity Surveyor in 2000. After earning a first-class honours degree, he wrote his university dissertation on data and digitalisation in the construction sector. James quickly built a strong portfolio, becoming a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) in 2002. In 2012, he was elected as a Fellow of RICS for his significant writing contributions to the RICS Black Book technical standards. Throughout his career, James has worked on prestigious projects, including buildings for Imperial College and various Oxford University Colleges. Whilst employed at Gleeds as a Quantity Surveyor, he became head of the Education sector for London. In 2020, James took on a new challenge as Head of Insights and Analytics at Gleeds. This opportunity allowed him to further his skillset and qualify as a data analyst in 2022, launching the company's data analytics and research capabilities. Today, James leads Gleeds' Global Data, Insights, and Analytics department. With a focus on business intelligence, project intelligence, data literacy, and data maturity, he utilises his expertise in both Quantity Surveying and data analytics to drive the industry's digital transformation. As a Fellow of the RICS, a qualified Data Analyst, and an influential data leader, James recognises the crucial role data and analytics play in informing strategies and decision-making processes within the profession. Recently, James has been elected as chair of the Project Data Analytics Taskforce, further solidifying his position as a leading figure in the construction industry's digital transformation. James was nominated as one of the Top 100 People in Data 2023 by Data IQ, showcasing his dedication and impact in the field of Project Data Analytics