We’re a team of experienced individuals working to the highest possible standards. Second best will never do. We put our combined skill, expertise and our heart and soul into every project - and we care about it as much as you do. We have a wealth of industry knowledge, we’re Health & Safety compliant, and we meet all the relevant environmental, CSR and industry standards.
Mervyn Gilfillan
Mervyn graduated from QUB in 1970 with an Honours Degree in Civil Engineering, obtaining his professional qualifications as a Member of the Institute of Civil Engineering in 1974. After working for a major contractor in Northern Ireland, Mervyn moved his career to the Middle East (Jordan, Iraq) until 1981.
Once back in Northern Ireland, he established Merex Construction, which enjoys continued success to this day.
Derek Cowan
Project Director
Derek has over 40 years experience in the construction industry mostly with one of the province’s former leading contractors.
Initially a Purchaser he quickly moved to Bonus Surveyor before progressing to Estimate Manager, a position held for 10 years. These various roles brought extensive experience of contracts of all types and sizes working with budgets up to £30 million throughout Ireland and the UK. He has also worked on various joint venture projects with other major contractors.
Valerie Dillon
HSEQ Manager
A Construction Industry expert for over 30 years, mainly with Merex Construction, Valerie has extensive knowledge in many aspects including Associated Risks, Common Processes and Common Failures in Processes.
She has achieved NEBOSH General & Construction Certificate, a Masters in Work-based Learning (Occupational Health & Safety) and is a Graduate Member of the Institute of Occupational Health & Safety. Valerie continues in her professional development to attain Chartered status.
Sam Balmer
Senior Site Manager
Sam joined us in 1982 as a skilled operator, working up to position of Foreman, Safety Supervisor and to his current position as Senior Site Manager. He holds a CSR Plant Card and a CSR Gold Supervisor’s Card.
An excellent communicator, Sam easily builds rapport with Clients and Client’s Agents and is highly respected throughout the workforce and the industry in general.
Colette Kachamakwara
Construction Administrator
Colette joined us in October 2021 as Construction Administrator after deciding on a career change.
Mark Lemoine
Senior Site Manager
A core member of the supervision team, Mark recently completed his NVQ Level 4 and is now a qualified, experienced site supervisor. Currently in charge of our housing development site, he has proven his ability to manage many trades whilst keeping within the contract programme and ensuring the site remains safe.
Core Workforce
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We have a long-serving and loyal team of qualified, skilled, experienced tradesmen and operatives. They are at the very core of our distinctive and distinguished reputation.
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