Our People

David Tilby

Group CEO

David has over 50 years’ experience as a Quantity Surveyor, beginning his career in the United Kingdom in 1965, then moving to Australia in 1971.

As a Director of Rider Hunt (now RLB) from 1983 to 2000, he found new opportunities and opened new offices in Australia and internationally.

In 2006, David started the first office of Costplan Group in Brisbane with Rudi Piebenga and Ken Lewis and is proud of its growth and development into an international group of companies.

David has extensive experience on various projects and sectors throughout the world and has significant knowledge on the cost and logistical challenges that arise from constructing in diverse countries with different construction methods and regulations.

Understanding clients’ unique objectives and budgets is at the core of David’s approach to ensure client and project goals are successfully achieved.

The values important to David are to provide real-time, honest and independent advice to clients at all times, to help our people improve and extend their capabilities and to ensure a happy and positive workplace.

Matt Lee

HEALTH AND SAFETY DIRECTOR
UNITED KINGDOM

Matt joined Costplan Group in January 2023 as a Health and Safety Director to assist in the development, management and growth of the UK office.

Matt has over 15 years of experience in the Construction industry. He specialises in CDM 2015 and as a Principal Designer/ CDM Advisor has been delivering an expert service to several high-profile clients seeking to develop and build many of the signature buildings and infrastructure in London and all over the United Kingdom.
He has provided CDM services on major demolition projects, new high-rise developments and refurbishments, as well as high-profile schemes such as the enabling works, landscaping and infrastructure packages for the London 2012 Olympic Park.

On all his projects, Matt acts as a key advisor to the client on health and safety matters and specialises in design risk management, CDM design risk workshops and assisting designers in reducing risks during the design stage.
Matt has previously held a senior leadership position at a global construction consultancy and was responsible for business development and growth of the London team. He has experience of leading a CDM team, developing key accounts and building lasting relationships

Matthew Lee

Oceania Director

Matthew joined the Costplan team in July 2019 as a Director overseeing & managing our Oceania offices, having worked in the construction industry since 2001, experienced in both Commercial Management & Private Practice Quantity Surveying positions provides an expansive understanding of the role.

Having experience on a variety of projects across a broad range of sectors including Education, Commercial, Ecclesiastical, Judicial, Industrial, Infrastructure, Residential & Aviation across regions which include Australia, The South Pacific, United Kingdom and North America.

Matthew’s key strengths are contract and cost management, in particular the ability to initially set up projects & mitigate conflicts throughout the project process for the best possible outcomes. Matthew attained a BSc (Hons) In Quantity Surveying from The University of Salford, subsequently achieving MRICS Chartered Surveyor, MAIQS and Certified Quantity Surveyor (CQS AIQS) accreditations.

Core values which Matthew adheres to include Family, Integrity, Innovation and a belief in Dedication & Professionalism providing the most thorough advice to clients.

James Mitchell

European Director

James joined Costplan Group in 2017 and has 18 years of experience within the construction industry.

James has engaged in a large variety of projects within the United Kingdom, assuming the role of a Quantity Surveyor for both compact and extensive practices. He has worked with diverse client groups and his comprehensive professional background encompasses extensive PQS (Professional Quantity
Surveyor) experience, spanning projects with budgets ranging from £250k to £60m.

His versatile expertise covers numerous sectors such as commercial, residential, healthcare, education, leisure, and infrastructure.

Rudi Piebenga

DIRECTOR Australia and Papua New Guinea

Rudi joined Costplan Group as a Director in 2006 and has over 35 years of experience as a Quantity Surveyor.

Rudi has specialised experience in a wide variety of projects throughout the South Pacific including Aviation, Major Infrastructure and Civil, Commercial, Health and Leisure.

Rudi’s main areas of expertise are preparing and pricing estimates, cost planning, bills of quantities, post-contract progress assessments, variation assessments and extension of time claims.

During his career, Rudi has developed an extensive understanding of cost estimation and management, budget control, value engineering, and implementation of effective cost-saving strategies to deliver successful project outcomes for our clients.

Andy Shutt

HEALTH & SAFETY DIRECTOR
UNITED KINGDOM

Andy joined the Group in January 2023 as a Director of Costplan Safety Services Limited. Possessing more than 15 years’ experience within the construction industry, Andy has been involved in ensuring the safe delivery of large-scale civil engineering projects, working with main contractors within defence, pharmaceutical, healthcare, education, civils and refurbishment.

A chartered member of the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Andy has assisted with the development and commencement of the OH&S culture improvement strategies for large organisations, as well as successfully implementing behavioural safety programs onto some of the largest construction projects in the UK.

Andy is dedicated to the continued growth of Costplan Safety, bringing value to our clients while fostering a positive workplace atmosphere for all colleagues.

Aaron Tomsett

GROUP DIRECTOR

Aaron's significant contributions have fuelled Costplan Group's expansion since 2014, playing a pivotal role in our successful entry into the UK market. With a career spanning back to 2001, he possesses a comprehensive background in development, main contracting, and consulting. His acute attention to detail underscores his belief in the symbiotic relationship between experience, training, and steadfast support in fostering a thriving and positive organisational culture.

Aaron holds a diverse project portfolio encompassing Residential, Commercial, Hospitality, Industrial, Education, Infrastructure, and Aviation sectors. His educational journey culminated in a BSc Hons in Quantity Surveying Consultancy from Kingston University, which is enhanced by his membership of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

Central to Aaron's core values are Family, Enjoyment, Passion, Reliability, Health, and Care. He champions accountability as a cornerstone principle and firmly upholds the notion that life's most valuable achievements are products of relentless dedication and hard work.

Matthew Valentine

PLANNING DIRECTOR
UNITED KINGDOM

Matt has over 20 years’ experience within the Construction and Civil Engineering industry. As aa skilled Programme and Project Management professional in the Construction industry, Matt has a demonstrated history of providing Tender Planning, Project Planning and Controls and Forensic Planning and Expert Witness services across a wide range of sectors, including Transport, Residential, Pharmaceutical, Defence, Education and Infrastructure.

Adia Caldwell

ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

Adia joined Costplan Group in 2022 and prior to that, had a varied customer-focused career, working within the retail sector. Adia also spent 15 years working successfully as an actor and model. Whilst raising a family, Adia worked as a volunteer in a variety of roles at her daughter’s school.

Adia is a crucial member of the team in Brisbane, assisting with a wide range of administrative tasks.

Blaze Xu

SENIOR QUANTITY SURVEYOR
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

Blaze joined Costplan Group in 2017 as a trainee Quantity Surveyor in our Queensland Office. Possessing great attention to detail, Blaze provides precise and accurate quantity surveying services at every stage of a project. He has been involved in numerous projects throughout most sectors within Australia, the United Kingdom, and the South Pacific.

Blaze has experience in a range of highly diverse fields such as Education, Law & Order, Health & Science, Office, Warehouse, Recreational, Residential and Community. Blaze holds a Master’s Degree of Construction Practice from Bond University. He is a member of AIQS and is currently undertaking RICS APC structured training and aiming to attain chartered status in the coming years.

Family, health, and experience are the core values to Blaze

Gordon Clarke

SENIOR PLANNING ENGINEER
UNITED KINGDOM

Gordon joined Costplan Group in January 2023 as a Senior Planning Engineer working from in the Costplan East office. He joined the team to provide part-time detailed planning support and mentoring.

Gordon started work as an Army Engineer and worked within this role for 12 years. Since leaving the Army he has been predominantly working in Civil Engineering. Involved with both pre-construction and project based analysis and support. Marine works have provided the most challenging and interesting
area of work for Gordon.

Gordon strives to provide an independent, confident, considered and balanced support and guidance to work colleagues and clients.

James Elvy

ASSISTANT QUANTITY SURVEYOR
UNITED KINGDOM

James joined Costplan in May 2021 and is studying for a BSc in Quantity Surveying.

James has been involved on a wide range of projects, which have included a long-term onsite QS role on a live data centre project carrying out cost-plus valuations. He has also been tasked with working on residential extension projects, design stage reporting and consultant valuations for a major hotel scheme in London.

One of James’ goals is to gain experience in as wide a range of projects as possible, to assist with his career development and the opportunity to achieve highly in his degree. James feels strongly that communication and accountability are key to the success of projects.

Karen Baker

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
UNITED KINGDOM

Karen joined Costplan Safety Services Limited in January 2023, assuming the position of Office Administrator.

With a career history spanning 35 years, Karen has vast experience across administration, HR, compliance, and finance. Her diverse background encompasses engagement in various sectors, including investment banking, education, and the construction industry.

Honesty and integrity are at the heart of everything Karen does and the wellbeing of those around her are of paramount importance.

Lakith Jayasekara

QUANTITY SURVEYOR
UNITED KINGDOM

Lakith joined Costplan Group in December 2022 as a Quantity Surveyor. Having engaged in the construction industry since 2010, gaining experience in the UK, Oman & Sri Lanka has given him vast industrial exposure to various construction aspects of the world.

Being nurtured in both Contracting & PQS environments, of Pre & Post Contract QS functions, Lakith gained an extensive knowledge of the nature and functioning of the industry. He has experience in Residential, Commercial & Infrastructure projects including heavy civil works within his tenure in the
industry.

Lakith is a Chartered Quantity Surveyor holding MRICS & MAIQS certifications, along with BSc in QS and MSc in PM qualifications. His strong knowledge in cost management and contract administration has added a great value to Costplan.

Liam Beatty

SENIOR QUANTITY SURVEYOR
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

Liam joined Costplan Group as a Senior Quantity Surveyor in May 2022, bringing with him over 14 years of experience in the construction field. During the initial 8-year phase of his career in the UK, he advanced from Trainee Quantity Surveyor to Quantity Surveyor. Subsequently, he embarked on an
exciting solo journey to Australia, where he continued to advance his career.

Liam’s expertise spans diverse sectors and various experience levels, with a notable focus on Health, Residential, and Educational domains. His career has been enriched by his work in both the UK and Australia, as well as his involvement on both the PQS and Contractor sides. This has provided him with
profound insights into cost management, spanning from concept to project completion.

Liam attained First Class Honours in his Quantity Surveying & Construction Commercial Management degree at Nottingham Trent University. Subsequently, he secured the status of MRICS Chartered Surveyor in Australia. His core proficiencies encompass meticulous measurement and pricing, effective communication, and adept negotiation skills.

Liam’s core values encompass integrity, respect, and a genuine concern for the company and our clients.

Liam Hanagan

QUANTITY SURVEYOR
UNITED KINGDOM

Liam has worked for Costplan for five years, primarily focusing his efforts within the Residential and Retail domains throughout the United Kingdom. Liam’s academic journey led him to achieve a BSc (Hons) in Quantity Surveying from the University College of Estate Management, where he is also set to undertake the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence as part of his course.

Liam’s core values revolve around health, family, and integrity, forming the bedrock of his principles. His personal aspirations encompass a multifaceted spectrum, including the expansion of his skill set and expertise across various sectors.

Michael Butcher

SENIOR QUANTITY SURVEYOR
UNITED KINGDOM

Michael joined Costplan in 2019 and has been a Quantity Surveyor for 15 years, gaining his MRICS status in 2020.

His skill set encompasses diverse areas including measurements, devising budget/cost plans, analyzing tenders, overseeing procurement, managing packages, monitoring expenses, and projecting future costs. Furthermore, he has garnered experience as a Contract Administrator and Employers Agent on various contracts.

Michael’s project involvement spans from high-level feasibility cost assessments to intricate cost plans. Michael consistently endeavours to operate at the utmost level of excellence, a value he holds dear and takes pride in.

Michelle Mullo 

SENIOR QUANTITY SURVEYOR
PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Michelle has been a valued member of the Costplan team since 2014, but began her career working with a building contractor as a Project Administrator in PNG and Solomon Islands spanning over 8 years. The role essentially covered all aspects of a project from measuring, pricing, purchasing, administration and reporting. Following this, Michelle then worked for 1.5 years as a tutor at a local
PNG university.

Michelle has pre and post contract experience in various sectors including commercial, sporting facilities, prison, financial, educational, health and community.

Michelle’s children and family are the foundation of her core values, motivation and goals both personally and professionally.

Rachel Yan

ASSISTANT QUANTITY SURVEYOR
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

Rachel joined Costplan Group in June 2021 as a Cadet Quantity Surveyor in the Queensland office after she graduated with a Master of Construction of Practice (Professional) at Bond University. She has been exposed to various projects and sections such as educational, commercial, and residential both in the pre contract stages and post-contract stages.

Rachel is in AIQS YQS Committee which supports AIQS members/students to advance their skills and expand their networks via site visits, educational events and networking functions.

Rachel is keen to get involved in sustainable projects and currently, she is preparing her MRICS assessment. Her passion is working as a professional quantity surveyor to deliver projects to a high standard quality.

Rebecca Holwell

HR AND FINANCE MANAGER
UNITED KINGDOM

Rebecca joined Costplan Group in July 2018 as an HR and Office administrator and has progressed to become the HR and Finance Manager for all UK operations.

With a career in HR spanning over a decade, Rebecca has gained extensive experience in People Development. Amongst her notable career accomplishments, Rebecca achieved an AAT qualification in Accounting and acquired certification enabling her to offer Workplace Training.

Rebecca is dedicated to the development and progression of Costplan Group and all staff.

Ross Morphey

QUANTITY SURVEYOR
UNITED KINGDOM

Ross has worked as a Quantity Surveyor for Costplan Group for eight years With two decades’ worth of experience, he has effectively navigated through diverse industry sectors, including residential, commercial, and education, among others.

Within the Costplan Group, Ross undertakes a pivotal role overseeing ongoing projects throughout the United Kingdom. He collaborates closely with subcontractors and clients, overseeing the project lifecycle from tender submission through practical completion to Final Accounts.

Beyond project management, Ross also assumes the responsibility of creating comprehensive Bill of Quantities, engaging in meticulous cost planning, and performing precise measurement tasks.

Ross achieved his BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying Degree from the University College of Estate Management, and he is actively working towards achieving membership status with the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

Sara Vaninetti

ASSISTANT QUANTITY SURVEYOR
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

Sara joined Costplan Group in December 2022 as an Assistant Quantity Surveyor and has more than seven years of experience in the construction industry.

Sara obtained a Diploma in surveying and worked for three years as a property valuer and architectural designer in Italy. She also worked for more than three years for a commercial flooring company in Brisbane as a quantity surveyor where she had the opportunity to assist project managers on site for educational projects and major hospitals between Queensland and New South Wales.

Sara is currently working towards joining the AIQS. Since she joined Costplan, Sara has been exposed to a variety of projects in both Australia and PNG. She is excited to gain new knowledge and grow professionally, as construction has always been her passion.

Sarah Norman

HR AND FINANCE MANAGER
AUSTRALIA AND PNG

Sarah joined Costplan Group in 2016 as an Admin Assistant, progressing to Office Manager and in 2023 was promoted to HR and Finance Manager (Oceania), responsible for the HR and Finance aspects of our Australian and PNG Offices.

During her career, Sarah has cultivated a comprehensive skill set with extensive experience in a range of industries including oil and gas, health and safety, hospitality and freight forwarding.

Sarah is a member of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), the Australian HR Institute (AHRI) and a participant in the Property Council of Australia’s 500 Women in Property program.

Sarah’s values centre around family, fun, health, happiness and work-life fulfilment. Sarah is passionate about celebrating achievements and milestones and committed to ensuring everyone feels valued, empowered and motivated.

Simon Mura

QUANTITY SURVEYOR
PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Simon joined Costplan Group in 2022 and is based in our Port Moresby Office. He has worked in the Construction industry for over eight years, initially completing his six-month building cadet training in Brisbane, Australia. 

Simon has been very active within the industry, working as an Estimator, Contract Administrator, Project Engineer, and Quantity Surveyor for Civil projects, Community Facilities, Commercial Offices, Retail, Apartments, Hotels, Health Facilities, and Educational to Remote Area locations.

Simon has been involved with infrastructure development all over PNG, with work ranging from Civil to Building Works

Stewart Bass

Planner United Kingdom

Stewart joined Costplan in December 2021 as a Planner and is located in our East office.

Prior to this, Stewart had gained a wealth of experience while employed by one of the United Kingdom’s largest Main Contractors. His journey encompassed roles as a Site Engineer, followed by a transition into Construction Management. Throughout this tenure, he successfully oversaw a diverse range of projects within the Education and Defence sectors, spanning values ranging from £1 million to over £200 million. After joining Costplan, Stewart continued to broaden his expertise, venturing into realms like residential and data centre construction.

Stewart’s ethos revolves around meticulous attention to detail, maintaining professionalism, and displaying a remarkable ability to swiftly adapt to varying circumstances

Susan Saxby

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
UNITED KINGDOM

Susan joined Costplan Group in 2022 and is based in our Cambridge office assisting the Planning Director and associates.

Susan’s professional background spans diverse sectors encompassing both private and public realms. She held managerial positions within District and County Councils, with responsibility extended to Adult Social Services, Children’s Services, Public Health, Policy, and Resources.

Notably, Susan collaborated closely with the Director of Children’s Services and the Lead Member for Children’s Services, substantiating and securing funding for Children’s Centres across Norfolk