George Taft specialises in providing independent expert advice on construction projects in quantum analysis, including assessments of productivity/inefficiency, prolongation, escalation, final account evaluation, and a range of other damages impacts.
He has more than 32 years of experience in the construction industry, advising clients on issues involving contract administration, commercial management, claim preparation, delay, cost, disruption, and productivity analyses. Mr. Taft’s capability and reputation have been recognized in the UK and internationally, as evidenced by the frequency of appointments as a quantum expert on a wide range of major construction disputes. Often acting as a party-appointed expert, he has also been engaged as an Independent Assessor by Tribunals during International Arbitrations or by Dispute Boards.
Mr. Taft has been engaged on some of the world’s largest and most high-profile projects, such as the Panama Canal Expansion. He has given evidence (including ‘witness conferencing’) during dispute proceedings and has been cross-examined on numerous occasions in arbitration in several countries and litigation in the English High Court. Mr. Taft’s experience as a practitioner from different parts of the industry, whilst working for both contractors and employers, has enabled him to provide valuable insights when acting as a quantum expert or advising on resolving or avoiding disputes.
He has also regularly acted as expert advisor and as independent auditor on behalf of banks supporting investment programs such as the Chernobyl New Safe Confinement Project.
Mr. Taft has experience in project delivery and dispute resolution under many forms of construction contract, including the Engineering Construction Contract (NEC), various FIDIC forms, ICE, JCT, and other bespoke forms of Contract. Mr. Taft’s range of experience includes most aspects of building projects and civil engineering, including rail, airports, many types of power generation, major piling, dewatering, tunneling, concrete and steel structures together with large-scale earthworks, and off-shore/marine works. He also has experience oil & gas and petrochemical facilities projects.
Who’s Who Legal lists Mr. Taft as a ‘Thought Leader’ (Construction 2022) and notes, “George is an incredibly strong and reliable expert”. Who’s Who Legal Consulting Experts (2022) states that George is “very sensible, pragmatic and has a good handle on the detail,” with sources noting his “articulate authoritative and attentive” approach in proceedings.