Meet the Team: Laith Alkhatbi

  1. Can you walk us through your role as Civil Works Manager at Vassallo Builders and what a typical day looks like for you?
    As Civil Works Manager, I oversee projects from the initial groundwork stages through to completion, ensuring everything runs on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. A typical day includes site visits, coordinating with engineers and site teams, reviewing progress, and resolving any technical or logistical challenges that arise.

  2. Civil works projects can be complex and fast-moving. How do you keep your team coordinated and maintain quality standards from groundwork through to completion?
    It comes down to clear communication, detailed planning, and consistency. I hold regular site meetings, monitor progress closely, and make sure expectations are clear from the start. Maintaining quality is about setting high standards early and ensuring they’re followed throughout the project.

  3. Vassallo Builders has a strong reputation in Malta’s construction industry. What does being part of that legacy mean to you personally, and how does it shape the way you work?
    Being part of Vassallo Builders means upholding a strong reputation built over many years. It motivates me to maintain high standards in every project and to approach my work with professionalism, accountability, and attention to detail.

  4. What’s the most challenging type of project you’ve overseen, and what did it teach you about leadership and problem-solving under pressure?
    The most challenging projects are those with tight deadlines and complex site conditions. They’ve taught me the importance of staying calm under pressure, making quick but informed decisions, and keeping the team focused and motivated throughout.

  5. What skills do you think are most underrated in civil works management?
    Adaptability is key, as no project goes exactly as planned. Listening is equally important—taking input from the team on site often helps prevent issues before they escalate. Another underrated skill is the ability to manage change effectively, even after work is completed. When updates or revisions come in, it’s important to reassess quickly and confidently guide the team, ensuring they understand and implement the changes efficiently.

  6. When you’re not managing sites and deadlines, how do you switch off and is there anything about your downtime that might surprise your colleagues?
    I like to spend time with family and stay active, which helps me recharge. I also value quiet time, as it allows me to reset and come back to work with a clear and focused mindset.

Other Stories

PEOPLE & LIFE-STYLE
September 15, 2026

Breakfast with the CEO: Building Connections at Vassallo Builders

PEOPLE & LIFE-STYLE
August 27, 2026

A Journey Back to Ethiopia