Meet David Lane: Asking Questions and Embracing the Challenge
- 8th September 2026
From historic sea walls to specialist ship-handling facilities, David Lane has worked on some genuinely unique projects throughout his career. It’s that variety and the constant challenge of solving problems, that first attracted him to construction and continues to keep him motivated today.
As part of our Quantem Spotlight series and continued 20th anniversary celebration, we caught up with David ahead of the Annual Hospitality Conference to discuss the industry’s challenges, the importance of asking questions and a few things you might not know about him.
What originally attracted you to the construction and property sector?
David knew early on that the traditional office environment wasn’t for him.
“I’d worked in an office as a summer job and so knew that I wanted to do something that differed from the standard 9–5.”
The variety of construction projects has kept things interesting ever since.
“Every construction project is unique in some way, so whilst sometimes frustrating, the continued challenge and problem solving is what keeps the job fun.”
What sets Quantem apart when approaching complex projects?
For David, it’s the willingness to challenge decisions and ask the difficult questions early.
“It is our challenging of the team and not being afraid to ask the daft or difficult questions.”
Rather than allowing difficult decisions to be pushed further down the line, David believes addressing them early gives the whole team the opportunity to work towards a better outcome.
“Only by challenging the team early can everyone work together for the betterment of the project.”
What advice would you give to someone looking to develop their career in the industry?
For David, supporting emerging talent and building a successful career comes down to being curious, asking questions and getting involved.
“There is no such thing as a stupid question.”
He encourages people to challenge what they’re being told, share their thoughts and ask when they don’t understand something.
“Nobody knows everything, so if you don’t know what something is then you have to ask.”
His advice for those starting out is equally simple:
“Get involved and from the outset look to build relationships.”
The industry is smaller than many people realise, and the relationships built early in a career can prove valuable for years to come.
What project are you most proud of?
David has worked on a number of memorable projects, but one that particularly stands out is the New Manned Model Centre for Southampton Solent University. The project involved reprofiling a lake to replicate the Suez and Panama Canals, alongside ports and areas designed to mimic open ocean conditions. The facility allows trainees to practise handling six-metre model ships in realistic environments.
“When it opened we had Sir Steven Redgrave out in one of the models.”
A memorable project and an even more memorable opening.
Quick Fire with David
What’s one thing your colleagues might be surprised to learn about you? “My front tooth is fake.”
What’s your go-to coffee order? “A cappuccino, no chocolate.”
What was the first album you ever bought? Europe – The Final Countdown
What’s your go-to takeaway after a long day? “Kebab, Pizza or Chinese… nope, don’t make me choose.”
If you could have any animal as a pet, what would you choose? “A tiger. I’ve always been fascinated by big cats.”
About David Lane
David Lane is a partner, leading our hotels team and bringing experience across a diverse range of construction and property projects. With a passion for problem solving and developing people, he believes in asking questions, challenging assumptions and building strong relationships throughout the industry.
Have a hotels project? Speak with David.
