WINNERS ANNOUNCED
CONSTRUCTION PEOPLE Lifetime Achievement ROBERT MCKELVEY MCKELVEY CONSTRUCTION
L-R: Claire McCollum, host, Jenna Bell, CIOB NI (sponsor), Robert McKelvey and George Clarke, host.
Robert McKelvey is a successful entrepreneur with an outstanding legacy of positive contribution to his workforce, industry and local community. Across a career of almost 50 years, he has advocated for workforce development, heritage conservation, health and safety, environmental stewardship and his local community. Leading by example, he continues to work full time and ensure McKelvey Construction’s operations run smoothly to a high standard. Robert’s quiet generosity is well known, from helping individuals in need to lending a hand to other contractors. Robert recently celebrated his 65th birthday, while the company he founded is marking its 40th anniversary in 2026. He began his journey in construction aged 16 in 1976, working as a labourer. Leaving school without formal qualifications, Robert’s work ethic, quick learning and tenacity set him apart. Determined to build a better future, he began an apprenticeship while supporting his young family and completed City & Guilds qualifications. Aged 25 and armed with a few tools, a Bedford van and three workers, Robert founded RJ McKelvey and has led its evolution from a subcontractor on general projects to a main contractor delivering
with a senior tradesperson to ensure they receive comprehensive training, mentorship and support. Passion projects include heritage construction, blending traditional craftsmanship with sustainability to repurpose historic buildings. Standout examples include The Ebrington Hotel, Ballinamore Railway Station, Lifford Courthouse and Magheralin Church. Embracing sustainability in construction, he is also a farmer with a keen interest in biodiversity and a respected elder and Sunday school superintendent in his church. In 2025, Robert received an MBE for services to Castlederg Credit Union and the community in Co Tyrone. Volunteering as chairman of the Castlederg and Tyrone branches, he has helped grow the union from 40 to 1,200 members, supporting financial access and promoting small business growth in rural areas. Serving on the CEF General Contractors Committee and FMB NI Board For nearly three decades, he has advocated for better standards, innovation and collaboration. Robert’s journey is a powerful example of how leadership and a deep commitment to people can transform a business and an entire community.
public and government works. A pivotal moment in Robert’s career came when he suffered a serious fall from height. Under his leadership, McKelvey Construction has implemented rigorous safety standards, fostering a culture of protection and accountability. Remaining a family business, the company today operates throughout the UK and Ireland, employing over 50 people and supporting multiple subcontractors and suppliers. Robert is regarded as a fair, inclusive and respectful employer, with over 10% of employees with the company for 20 years-plus including one of three original team members. A strong advocate for apprenticeships, he personally pairs each new start
T: +44 (0)28 8167 0586 - E: info@mckelveyconstruction.co.uk www.mckelveyconstruction.co.uk
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