Cramlington-based contractor Compass Developments has appointed Adam Charlton as assistant quantity surveyor, following the completion of his degree after four years with the business as a technical apprentice.

Charlton, 23, from Seaton Delaval, joined the contractor while studying quantity surveying at Northumbria University, combining academic study with hands-on experience across live construction projects.

The appointment comes as the construction sector continues to focus on building skills pipelines and retaining early-career talent amid ongoing shortages in commercial and surveying roles.

Supporting delivery across residential-led regeneration projects

In his new full-time role, Charlton is working alongside senior quantity surveyors Richard Harm and Mark Handyside. He is currently supporting delivery on several live schemes, including the Vaux South development in Sunderland city centre.

Compass Developments has been appointed by igloo Regeneration to deliver 34 homes at Vaux South as part of the wider Sunderland Riverside Masterplan.

Regional contractor delivering projects up to £10m

Based in Cramlington, Compass Developments operates across the commercial, industrial and residential sectors, delivering schemes typically valued up to £10m.

The contractor provides full lifecycle services, including feasibility assessments, design management, project planning and construction delivery, with recent growth driven by repeat business and long-term client relationships.

Focus on developing in-house capability

Stephen O’Neill, director at Compass Developments, said the appointment reflects the company’s commitment to developing talent internally.

He said: “Adam is a bright talent who, for the last four years, has become a key member of our team, demonstrating enthusiasm and an eagerness to learn. Working closely with his colleagues, Richard and Mark, I have no doubt he will continue to develop in a supportive environment.

“We want to play our part in developing the next generation of talented workers and Adam is a perfect example of a young person that has grasped the opportunity presented to him and is flourishing.”

Early-career routes into construction surveying

Charlton said combining site experience with academic study had been central to his development.

He said: “From day one, I settled into the team with ease and working on live projects without doubt helped me with my degree. I’m looking forward to progressing my career with Compass Developments, it’s an exciting time to join the company as it has ambitious plans for growth.”