Devon Club

Tanya joined the company as a trainee recruiter 18 years ago when the business was celebrating its second birthday. Now Managing Director, Tanya plays a pivotal role in the strategic direction of the company.

Having worked in most areas of the business during her career, Tanya has a firm knowledge and understanding of each sector and applies this wealth of experience for the benefit of her colleagues and clients alike.

A key contributor to the sector through her various roles with industry organisations, in particular as Chair for Women In Property – Somerset, Devon & Cornwall and Committee Member of Constructing Excellence Exeter & Devon, Tanya has earned the respect from her peers through her consistent and ongoing support for the property and construction industry.

Stephen is a Partner and Head of Adjudication and Arbitration Services.

He specialises in construction procurement and contentious construction and engineering matters including projects support and drafting and negotiating construction contracts, court proceedings, adjudications and professional negligence claims.

Stephen has over 20 years’ experience. He has recently acted for a number of major UK Contractors as well as developers, banks, local authorities, utility companies and consultants providing contentious and non-contentious construction law advice in a number of sectors including the energy sector.

Stephen is a construction adjudicator on a number of industry panels, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and a practising mediator. He is also a member of the Association of Partnering Advisers.

Stephen is cited in Chambers & Partners Legal Directory. Clients praise his “very comprehensive and thorough advice with no stone left unturned.” Stephen is also recognised as a legal expert in Construction law by the Legal Experts Directory and is ranked as a Leading Individual in the 2020 edition of the Legal 500.

Nigel Whelan – Managing Director, Devon Contractors

Nigel Whelan has an extensive and distinguished career in the South West construction industry, having successfully led and grown businesses across the region. He began his career in London as a Quantity Surveyor, quickly developing a strong foundation in construction management and commercial delivery. Over the years, Nigel has progressed through senior roles, culminating in his current position as Managing Director of Devon Contractors, an 80-year-old contractor renowned for delivering projects across Devon.

Under his leadership, Devon Contractors manages a diverse portfolio of projects ranging from £1k to £20 million, encompassing commercial builds, refurbishments, BREEAM-certified developments, and complex schemes in busy public spaces. Nigel’s strategic vision, commitment to quality, and deep industry knowledge continue to drive the company’s growth and reinforce its reputation for excellence in construction delivery.

Nigel now brings his expertise to the CESW Devon Board Committee, contributing his insight and experience to support the wider construction sector in the region.