Why Hiring for Project Managers and Quantity Surveyors Is Slower Than It Should Be

Hannah Pooley • March 25, 2026

Construction companies across the UK are facing a familiar frustration: projects are ready to start, budgets are approved, yet Project Manager recruitment and Quantity Surveyor recruitment remain slower than expected.

Many firms are now asking, why is hiring for a Project Manager so hard in the UK construction industry, and why are Quantity Surveyors in such high demand?

With infrastructure programmes, urban development, and digital construction projects all expanding, the pressure to secure top talent has never been higher.

Here’s a deep dive into why hiring for Project Managers and Quantity Surveyors is so difficult - and practical strategies to fix it.

Project Managers

The Challenge

Project Managers are central to delivering large-scale construction projects on time, on budget, and to specification. Yet Project Manager hiring in the UK construction industry is slow because demand far outpaces supply:

This has led many employers to question how to recruit a Project Manager quickly without compromising on quality..

Key Causes

Complex Role Requirements:
Modern Project Managers must combine site supervision with stakeholder management, risk mitigation, digital integration, and team leadership. This is a key reason why hiring experienced Project Managers is difficult.
Competition Across Industries:
Because project delivery skills are transferable, construction is competing with other sectors. This makes attracting top Project Manager talent increasingly competitive.
Talent Demographics:
An ageing workforce and fewer mid-level professionals mean companies are struggling with Project Manager talent shortages in construction.

Solutions to Accelerate Hiring:

Build a Talent Pipeline
Long-term success depends on how to attract Project Managers into construction careers, starting with universities and apprenticeships.
Upskill Internal Staff:
Investing in training helps solve Project Manager skills shortages and creates internal progression routes.
Modernise Packages:
To stay competitive, firms must understand what Project Managers are looking for in a job in 2026, including flexibility and career development.
Engage Specialist Recruiters:
Working with experts can significantly improve Project Manager recruitment strategies and reduce time-to-hire.

Quantity Surveyors

The Challenge

Quantity Surveyors are essential for cost planning, commercial management, and project profitability.

However, Quantity Surveyor recruitment continues to lag demand:

This leaves many businesses asking why it is so hard to hire a Quantity Surveyor right now.

Key Causes

Increasing Complexity:
Projects are becoming more complex, meaning employers are searching for highly experienced professionals. This contributes to Quantity Surveyor shortages.
Training Shortfalls:
While graduates exist, there is a gap in development. Many firms struggle with how to develop Quantity Surveyors into senior roles, which slows hiring overall.
Competitive Salaries:
The market is highly candidate-driven, making how to attract and retain Quantity Surveyors a key challenge for employers.

Solutions to Accelerate Hiring

Structured Career Pathways:
Clear progression plans help address retention challenges for Quantity Surveyors and make roles more appealing.
Upskilling and Mentorship:
Investing in development is key to solving Quantity Surveyor skills gaps in construction.
Recruitment Partnerships:
Specialist support improves Quantity Surveyor hiring strategies and helps businesses access hard-to-reach talent.