A career move with a vision: Philipp is the site manager for the “MesseCity Köln Ost 2” project.
How did you become a site manager?
Whilst studying for my Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering at Aachen University of Applied Sciences, I was already working as a student trainee in planning and site management at an engineering firm. In 2020, I then moved to ZÜBLIN in Cologne as a student trainee in site management. Initially, I was assigned to the ‘New Zusestraße Grammar School’ project, and from July 2022 I moved to the ‘MesseCity Cologne East 1’ project.
After completing my Master’s degree, I joined the “MesseCity Köln Ost 2” project as a site manager in February 2023. Initially, I oversaw the structural work; I am now responsible for the finishing works.
What is your day-to-day life like as a site manager?
My role is very varied: every day, I manage and coordinate numerous trades, both in the fit-out phase (e.g. raised/double floors, tiling, carpet fitting, floor coatings) as well as in the area of external works (e.g. roofing, gardening and landscaping, waterproofing).
In doing so, I continuously monitor quality and workmanship, keep a close eye on costs and the budget, and constantly compare the schedule with the actual progress of the build in order to identify any deviations at an early stage and take corrective action.
When I joined the project in early 2023, I was initially responsible for the reinforcement work, including the prestressing steel, whilst simultaneously organising the supply of precast elements from various manufacturers. As the project progressed, numerous other trades were added – ranging from outdoor facilities, waterproofing and metalwork to floor coatings, screed, cavity and raised floors, drywall and surveying.
What exactly is being built?
MesseCity Köln Ost 2 is an office building that will later be used by the City of Cologne. The building comprises around 29,800 square metres of gross floor area. Furthermore, the project meets high energy and environmental standards, has been awarded DGNB Gold certification and is eligible for KfW‑40 funding. A solar PV system and the logistics for the fit-out, organised by ZÜBLIN, round off the project’s key features.
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What is the biggest challenge in your current project?
The biggest challenge is probably ensuring a clear distinction between the basic infrastructure works and the user-specific works. Each task must be clearly assigned, which requires a high degree of structure and coordination on a day-to-day basis. In parallel with the progress of the user-specific fit-out, all defects from the basic fit-out must also be rectified step by step. This need to carry out work in parallel makes the project particularly demanding.
What do you consider particularly important when working as part of a team?
Above all, I believe it’s important to communicate openly and honestly with one another. Treating one another with respect forms the basis for this. At the same time, whilst we focus on deadlines and quality, there should still be room for humour and a light-hearted approach – this strengthens the team and makes working together more efficient and enjoyable.
What skills are particularly important in your job?
A solution-oriented and structured approach to work is essential, as it’s otherwise easy to lose track of things. In many situations, it also helps to stay calm and avoid making hasty decisions.
On top of that, you need a certain level of social skills, as conflict situations are an inevitable part of life on a building site. Treating one another with respect and objectivity is therefore crucial for successful and constructive collaboration in the long term.
Thank you for the fascinating insights you’ve shared with us. We wish you and the project team continued success!
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