FEATURE
Project – K2CM is leading on the SeAH Wind factory at Teesworks .
The little-known company making a big impression developing the region ’ s biggest investment projects .
BUILDING BETTER
K2 Construction Management ( K2CM ) has made a significant impact on the UK construction scene , particularly here in Teesside .
Although it entered the region three years ago with a modest profile , K2CM is now leading Teesside ’ s largest investment project , the SeAH Wind factory at Teesworks .
This offshore wind facility is the largest of its kind worldwide and symbolises K2CM ’ s commitment to projects with lasting benefits for the local economy and community .
Building on global expertise K2CM may have been new to Teesside , but it arrived with a wealth of experience across sectors such as healthcare , automotive and residential .
Founded in 2001 , K2CM gained a reputation for effective construction management , planning and delivery .
In 2019 , a South Korean industry leader acquired a majority stake , helping K2CM expand its reach and expertise .
The Teesside project is managed by David Gardner , a 30-year industry veteran , and supported by project director Kathryn Gardner , who previously led significant local infrastructure projects such as the £ 109m South Bank Quay . Their combined regional and industry knowledge strengthens K2CM ’ s role in Teesside .
James Grant , K2CM ’ s head of ESG and corporate relations , further supports this focus on regional ties .
With a background with Teesside Airport and the Tees Valley Combined Authority , James has enhanced K2CM ’ s community-driven reputation . His leadership in environmental , social and governance ( ESG ) initiatives shapes K2CM ’ s business model , reflecting the company ’ s investment in local communities and its dedication to sustainable construction practices .
Supporting Teesside ’ s economy and community The SeAH Wind project goes beyond conventional construction goals . K2CM has structured the project to benefit Teesside ’ s workforce and supply chain .
Its construction management model fast-tracks development by overlapping design and procurement phases , resulting in a quicker , more cost-effective build .
Since breaking ground in July 2022 , the project team led by construction director Glenn Forbes , has completed nearly 90 % of the project , prioritising local talent and resources .
At present , more than 1,000 workers are on site , with 76 % residing within 40 miles . Local firms , including Severfield ( for 35,000 tonnes of steel ) and Teesworks Cladding ( for 160,000sq m of cladding ), have played critical roles , with MGL Group ’ s Rainton Construction and Middlesbrough ’ s Applebridge providing 300,000 cubic metres of concrete – enough to fill 124 Olympic-sized pools .
Beyond the construction site , K2CM has also partnered with Middlesbrough College to support scholarships
Profile – K2CM may be a recent arrival in our region , but its team boasts a wealth of experience in various sectors . PICTURE : TOM BANKS
and STEM programmes , and it actively champions women in construction and emerging female leaders through employee engagement in groups such as CENE and NAWIC . Additionally , K2CM has supported local initiatives , such as funding grassroots sports and transforming a former Redcar ice cream parlour into an outreach centre for the Link Charitable Trust .
Expanding across the UK As the SeAH project nears completion , K2CM is taking on new projects in Leeds and London , including a residential development and the restoration of a historic site in Tooting .
Locally , K2CM continues to secure preconstruction and consultancy projects , affirming its status as a major player in the North-East ’ s economic landscape and a construction industry leader .
58 | Tees Business