I’m a deeply expressive, creative person from the south east. I work extremely hard both socially and in terms of output. I am uniquely driven

John McConkey

I’m a deeply expressive, creative person from the south east. I work extremely hard both socially and in terms of output. I am uniquely driven

Available to hire

I’m a deeply expressive, creative person from the south east. I work extremely hard both socially and in terms of output. I am uniquely driven

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Architectural Assistant RIBA Part I at Clague Architects
March 31, 2025 - July 8, 2025
Assisted in the design process across a range of commercial and residential projects, including Chilmington Green in Faversham, Oxshott GP Surgery in Surrey, and Gatwick Aviation Museum in West Sussex. Worked in a team of 3 Architectural Assistants and 2 RIBA Qualified Architects to produce high-quality architectural drawings.
Architectural Assistant (Part Time)
August 31, 2023 - July 8, 2025
Collaborated in the development of technical drawings and renders for a high-profile residential project. Contributed to the firm’s portfolio and website by delivering innovative design solutions adhering to both existing aesthetic and functional requirements. Utilized AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Cloud to produce high-quality drawings to support the project.
Boatman and Tour Guide at Canterbury Historic River Tours, Kent
November 30, 2020 - July 8, 2025
Conducted 45-minute guided river tours along the River Stour, providing visitors with informative and enjoyable experiences. Demonstrated excellent communication skills and historical knowledge, delivering concise and captivating narratives about local landmarks and history. Managed large groups of tourists, prior to boarding and then rowed 12 people on the boat, navigating through busy waterways during peak summer periods.
Architectural Assistant at Clague Architects
August 1, 2024 - March 1, 2025
Architectural assistant responsible for drawings and Design & Access Statement for a commercial development that successfully received planning approval. Produced AutoCAD drawing packages, GA plans, sections and elevations for residential and commercial projects, and mastered master plans in photorealistic balance of colour, readability, and levels. Produced research packages into past planning applications to identify design constraints. Mentored new Part I Architectural Assistants (freelance work).
Architectural Assistant at Freelance
July 1, 2023 - August 1, 2023
Collaborated in the development of technical drawings and renders for a high-profile residential project. Delivered innovative design solutions that adhered to both existing aesthetic and functional requirements. Conducted daylight studies to identify and troubleshoot shading issues throughout.
Work Experience – Quantity Surveying & Project Management at Kent Construction Consultants
September 1, 2025 - Present
September 2025: Completed a week-long work experience focusing on measurement of building elements (floor finishes, cladding, steelwork, beams and trusses, dormer roofs and downpipes). Extracted data from Bluebeam and prepared a cost plan in Excel. Described as 'A fantastic Emerging Talent'.
Front of House / Kitchen Porter at Savills
October 1, 2025 - Present
Riverside site – Front of House and Kitchen Portering obligations.
Bartender at The Old Buttermarket Pub
May 1, 2022 - May 1, 2023
Bartending duties in a busy pub environment; maintained customer service and bar operations.

Education

BSc at University of Reading, Berkshire
January 1, 2021 - January 31, 2025
A-Levels at Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys, Canterbury
January 1, 2017 - December 31, 2019
GCSE at Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys, Canterbury
January 1, 2012 - December 31, 2017
BSc Architecture at University of Reading, Berkshire
January 11, 2030 - May 7, 2026

Qualifications

Arkwright Design Scholarship
January 11, 2030 - July 8, 2025
NCS Government Led Scheme
January 11, 2030 - July 8, 2025
Arkwright Design Scholarship
January 11, 2030 - May 7, 2026
National Citizen Service (NCS) – Leadership & Teamwork
January 11, 2030 - May 7, 2026
Bronze Award - Speedy Car Challenge
January 11, 2030 - May 7, 2026
Pathfinder Charity Trek – 46 miles in 12 hours
January 11, 2030 - May 7, 2026
Fundraising Campaign for Demelza Research
January 11, 2030 - May 7, 2026

Industry Experience

Real Estate & Construction, Travel & Hospitality, Professional Services, Education, Non-Profit Organization