Full name: Shikha Dhasmana
Title or occupation: Dispute Resolution Consultant
How long have you been a YPG member: 2 months

Professional Spotlight

Tell us a bit about your background; what is your current role, and why did you decide on a career in the construction industry?

I completed my undergraduate degree in law in India, where I am a qualified lawyer. During my time in India, I gained experience working in litigation across various areas of law. After a few years of working in different roles, I chose to pursue a Master’s in International Commercial Law. Upon completing my studies, I joined Contract and Construction Consultants (Southern) Limited as a paralegal, where I have since been promoted to the role of Dispute Resolution Consultant. 

I have been exposed to the construction industry from a young age,  due to my father working as a QA/QC Manager. I did not anticipate working in the field until quite recently. However, the fast-paced and distinct nature of each dispute and contract has made this experience very enriching. The unique combination of legal complexity and practical application also adds a significant appeal. The contracts in the construction industry are often intricate and complex, with disputes being quite challenging. This makes construction law both intellectually stimulating and highly rewarding.

 

Can you tell us about any specific work you’re currently doing that has any association to JCT and its contracts? 

While bespoke contracts are prevalent across the industry, JCT remains the industry’s standard of choice. Whether you are reviewing contracts for risk mitigation or dispute resolution, encountering a JCT contract is inevitable in the construction industry. I often review JCT contracts, both during the start of projects and for dispute resolution purposes. I have also helped set up JCT contracts for clients starting a new project. One of the key advantages is their streamlined nature, which often allows for smooth integration in contracts both up and down the line. Although JCT contracts are frequently amended, their familiar foundation provides clarity for all parties involved. This consistency not only simplifies the assessment of deviations but also facilitates the identification and management of associated risks, providing greater confidence in managing complex contractual relationships.

 

What are you most proud of about the construction industry as a whole and where do you think it most needs to improve? 

The resilience of the construction industry is truly remarkable. Despite facing challenges such as labour shortages, cash flow issues, global supply chain disruptions, regulatory hurdles, and economic instability, the industry has remained strong and adaptable, finding ways to persevere. This has been particularly evident during the pandemic and in its aftermath. 

However, one area that may not always receive the attention it deserves is the contractual aspect within the industry.  Many parties are not fully aware of their rights and obligations under contracts, and it is unfortunately common to see challenges in the administration of contracts, even on large scale projects. Courts and, by extension, adjudicators seldom open the bargains of the parties. This is unfortunately the case even if those bargains are patently unfair. While I understand the importance of certainty that underpins those decisions, I believe the industry would benefit from a deeper understanding of the basic legal principles and robust contractual reviews, empowering parties to engage in more informed and equitable negotiations, which would ultimately lead to fairer outcomes, proper applications and better collaboration.

 

Who/what inspires you? 

The intersection of legal, regulatory, and technical aspects within the construction industry creates a unique synergy that keeps things endlessly fascinating. No two problems, contracts, disputes, or projects are ever quite the same, ensuring there is always something new to learn. While law is inherently dynamic, construction law is particularly evolutionary, constantly adapting to the evolving landscape of the industry. 

The construction sector is truly multi-disciplinary, from project managers and quantity surveyors to lawyers and regulatory bodies, all of which play significant roles in their own capacity. The dedication demonstrated by contractors and subcontractors in driving projects to success, despite often facing significant challenges, is truly admirable and motivating.  

I have been incredibly fortunate to work alongside some truly exceptional people, including Lisa Vernon, Chris Dean, Peter McCartney, and Alan Gardiner. Their unwavering support, mentorship, and remarkable insights continue to inspire me every day.  

 

What future goals and aspirations do you have for your career? 

I am currently excited and focused on learning as much as possible in the field of construction and contractual law. I also aim to enhance my expertise in various dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, arbitration, and negotiation, while staying abreast of legal and industry developments. It is not only important to know what to do, it is equally important to know when to do it. My goal is to develop a strategic understanding of the law. I am currently an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and I intend to undertake further professional development in the arena. 

 

What are you reading, listening to, or watching that you’d recommend?

I am currently rereading “the Idiot” by Fyodor Dostoevsky and I am listening to “The British History Podcast” by Jamie Jeffers. I would highly recommend them both for the same reason, fascinating exploration of human nature. I also enjoy intermittently watching videos by “Art Deco” on YouTube for their exploration of different paintings and the history behind them. 

 

Do you have any hobbies?

In my free time, I enjoy swimming, reading, sketching, and painting. I also love going on long walks and hikes.

 

Favourite place you’ve travelled?

I love travelling, and my favourite destination so far has been Singapore. Beyond its incredible food, stunning indoor ecosystems, and impressive aquarium, one of the highlights was watching the fireworks at Marina Bay on New Year’s Eve. It is an experience I highly recommend.

 

Describe what a perfect day outside of work would look like for you.

A perfect day would include a long walk, a great book, delicious food, and a beautiful beach view, all shared with my husband and family.