Faces of WP3 – James Everdell

In our new ‘Faces of WP3’ series, we’ll be sitting down with members of the WP3 team to discover what drives them, their thoughts on the industry, and get a glimpse behind the scenes.

As WP3 recently celebrated its fifth anniversary, it felt only right to begin with one of the founding directors, James Everdell.

Why did you, James Bennett and Nigel Herlihy MIET set up WP3 five years ago?

We’d all experienced similar frustrations with how projects were delivered. There was a lack of agility, rigid structures and missed opportunities for innovation. Too often, there wasn’t space to take risks or nurture ideas that could deliver long-term value.

We wanted to build something different: a consultancy that was more agile, collaborative and willing to look beyond traditional MEP delivery and processes.

What sets WP3 apart is the breadth of our services. We provide end-to-end solutions, from design to commissioning, energy strategy to validation and surveys, and even taking on smaller works to help our clients where it makes sense. This integrated approach supports both end clients and delivery teams in a comprehensive way.

Any lessons learned along the way?

Plenty! A few stand out:

• Back yourself. Take risks and rise to challenges. The rewards are often greater than you imagine.
• The industry is supportive. People have been incredibly generous with advice, introductions and encouragement.
• Relationships matter. Invest in genuine connections with people, not just organisations. Strong relationships make projects smoother and more enjoyable.
• Look after your people. When individuals feel valued and supported, they deliver their best work.

What are some of the biggest challenges the industry is facing right now?

• A major shift needed is investing more time upfront on projects. Instead of replicating past solutions, we should challenge the status quo, rethink materials, explore efficiencies and ensure designs remain fit for purpose long term.
• Another key challenge is investing in people: hiring graduates, training, mentoring and creating clear development pathways.
• And then, of course… Cat-A is a waste. Enough said.

What are you most proud of?

Without a doubt, it’s the team.

We’re now nearly 80 strong, and we’ve been deliberate in bringing together curious, open-minded, highly skilled people from a wide range of backgrounds. That diversity has led to more innovative, thoughtful solutions and makes WP3 an exciting place to work.

What’s next for WP3?

We’re always looking to broaden our offering beyond traditional MEP services. We have specialists in validations, surveys, AV, electronic security, SMART buildings, energy and sustainability, giving clients access to a richer set of solutions.

As we grow, our goal is to reach a size where we can deliver any project at scale while keeping the hands-on, personal approach that defines WP3. All of us, directors included, want to stay close to the work and the people.