Meet our new Senior Mechanical Estimator

A Q&A with our newest addition to the HF Family

Ian Mottram has recently joined our Mechanical & Electrical division working in our estimating department. So we thought, after a couple of weeks to allow him time to get settled in that we would sit down with Ian and do a Q&A to introduce him properly.

So Ian, what do you do at HF Mechanical & Electrical?

I’m the Senior Mechanical Estimator here, which means my team and I are responsible for determining the cost of various projects. We tackle some significant projects at HF, and our work in the office is where it all begins. We craft detailed estimates and proposals for our comprehensive mechanical services, which plays a crucial role in securing new projects and ensuring accurate cost estimates for the engineering work we provide.

What are your first impressions of working here?

So far, I’m really enjoying the friendly atmosphere in the office. Having worked at a few large companies over the years, I’ve noticed that the warm welcome here is unique. I don’t know whether it is due to the family-run nature of the business, the company’s rich history, or the fact that many employees have been here for a long time. Whatever the reason, the positive environment has really stood out to me so far.

What does your ideal workday look like?

I thrive on being busy. A day without enough to do can lead to a lack of focus and motivation. I prefer starting my day with a clear plan and a full schedule. An ideal day for me is one where I have a substantial amount of work ahead to dive into.

What led you to this career?

My entry into this field was somewhat serendipitous. Before 2004, I worked in the ball bearing industry—definitely as exciting as it sounds. I was a Director in a company in Inverness, and after achieving my goals there, I sought a new challenge. By chance, an opportunity arose to become a plumbing estimator at a company my father-in-law worked at. I took it, and for six years, I honed my skills in that role. In 2010, I developed a software program to modernise an outdated system which caught the attention of another business in Inverness. They brought me on as their Mechanical Estimator and I have stayed in that role ever since, gradually moved to different companies and migrating south, first to Edinburgh and now to Glasgow with HF.

What energises you at work?

Winning projects is what really drives me. There’s a deep satisfaction in it because while anyone can put together a price for a job, there’s an art to estimating that goes beyond the basics and can’t be easily taught.

What advice would you give to your teenage self?

I would tell my younger self to get into this line of work sooner. I’ve had a varied career, including time in the Air Force and as a Director at a successful company, but there’s something about estimating that I truly love. If I had known back then what I know now, I would have made the move earlier.

What is something about yourself that you’re proud of?

I’m a former member of something called Mensa International. It is an organisation for individuals with an IQ above 147. It might seem unusual, but I’m quite proud of that. Being part of the world’s largest and oldest IQ society was a significant achievement for me and something I will always be proud of.

Thanks Ian and welcome to the team.

At HF, our Mechanical Services division has been expanding steadily since its inception in 2007. Estimators have always been integral to our success, particularly when it comes to handling complex systems like plumbing, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). But why do we place such high value on estimators? Because a well-prepared, accurate quote not only increases our chances of winning contracts but also builds trust with our clients by demonstrating transparency and a clear understanding of the project’s scope and costs.

By identifying potential cost overruns or complications early on, estimators help us mitigate risks, avoid budget issues, and prevent project delays. In essence, they are key to ensuring that all our services—whether Electrical, Mechanical, Fire & Security, Comms, or Controls—are accurately quoted, competitively priced, and effectively managed.

As a diverse and ambitious family of companies, we pride ourselves on delivering superior quality and exceptional customer service. Attracting and retaining top talent is crucial to our success, as it drives positive outcomes and ensures we continue to make a significant impact for our customers, staff, suppliers, and communities.

That’s why we are thrilled to welcome Ian to our team as we continue to grow and evolve with industry advancements. His addition to our family-oriented management team reinforces the continuity and stability that sets us apart.