From Building Surveyor to Regional Leader: How Relocating Accelerated Kahlan’s Career by 10+ Years.

Why Moving for the Right Opportunity Can Be a Game-Changer in the Construction Industry

As Recruiters, we see it all the time—talented?Building Surveyors?and construction professionals who have the skills and ambition but feel?stuck?in their current role. The reality is, in industries like?building surveying, construction, and compliance, career progression isn’t just about experience; it’s about?being in the right place at the right time with the right company.

That’s exactly what happened with?Kahlan Commerford.

When we first connected with Kahlan, he was a?skilled Building Surveyor, looking for the next step in his career. He had all the right qualities—technical expertise, leadership potential, and a drive to grow—but he needed the right opportunity to?unlock his full potential.

That opportunity came with?McKenzie Group, and it required a big move—relocating to Brisbane.

Fast forward?just over 12 months, and Kahlan wasn’t just progressing—he was?fast-tracking his career?in ways he never expected.

Another opportunity emerged, this time in?Western Australia, and he took another leap, stepping into a leadership role as?Associate WA Regional Manager.

How Relocation Transformed His Career in Construction & Compliance

Had Kahlan stayed put, his career would have followed a?traditional path—gradual promotions, slow progression, and years of waiting for leadership opportunities.

Instead, by being open to relocation and embracing change, he:

Moved into leadership early, now running WA at an Associate level

Expanded beyond technical work, gaining exposure to strategy and business growth

Accelerated his career by 10-20 years, achieving what would have otherwise taken decades

Built a strong professional network, positioning himself as an industry leader

For?Building Surveyors and construction professionals, this is the power of the?right move—relocation isn’t just about changing cities, it’s about?changing your future.

More Than Just a Career Move—A Life-Changing Decision

What’s even more inspiring about Kahlan’s journey is that this wasn’t just about?career progression—it was a transformation on a personal level too.

“Relocating was the best thing we’ve done—personally, professionally, and in every aspect of life. Our relationship grew, my connection with my kids deepened, and we embraced the change together.”

Of course, there were challenges.

Moving to?Queensland first, then WA, meant?leaving family behind, adapting to new environments, and stepping into the unknown.?But in return, Kahlan and his family?gained more than they ever expected—growth, opportunity, and a lifestyle that aligned with their long-term goals.

Why McKenzie Group Was the Right Fit

One of the biggest factors in Kahlan’s success was?McKenzie Group’s commitment to career development. From the very first meeting, Kahlan knew this was a company that?valued its people—not just as employees, but as individuals with families, goals, and aspirations.

?Support from Day One:?Before he even started, flights and accommodation were arranged to make his transition seamless.

?A People-First Culture:?Throughout the hiring process, there was genuine care about his family’s needs and the support they’d receive.

A Clear Career Path:?McKenzie Group didn’t just offer him a job—they gave him a pathway to leadership.

“You and I sat down, and I had a really good feeling from the start. Then, when I had the second catch-up with Michael and Scott, I knew this was the right fit. They were warm, approachable, and they didn’t see me as just another employee—they valued my career and my family.”

Advice for Building Surveyors & Construction Professionals Considering Relocation

If you’re in?Building Surveying, Construction, or Compliance?and wondering whether?relocating could be the key to unlocking your career growth, Kahlan’s story is proof that it can be a?game-changer.

His advice?

“You’ve got to do it. Get out of your own shadow, commit, and embrace change.”

?“Find the right people—leaders who will support and guide you.”

“Be open, communicate honestly, and trust the process.”

Final Thoughts: The Power of Saying Yes

As recruiters, our job isn’t just about filling roles—it’s about finding?career-defining opportunities?that can change lives.

Kahlan’s journey from?Building Surveyor to Associate WA Regional Manager?in such a short time is exactly why we do what we do.

Because?relocation isn’t just about moving cities—it’s about moving forward, faster.

So, if you’re a?Building Surveyor or construction professional?wondering whether to take that?next step, ask yourself:

What’s possible if you just say yes?

Because for Kahlan, that one decision made all the difference.

?Have you ever relocated for a job in Building Surveying or Construction? Would you consider it??

Let’s us know in the comments!

#BuildingSurveying #ConstructionCareers #CareerGrowth #RelocationSuccess #Leadership #Opportunity #McKenzieGroup #RecruitmentSuccess

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