Jo Dale is head of technical services for hotels at Wakemans, specialising in cost management across complex hotel developments. She manages both pre- and post-contract duties, ensuring that every project is delivered to the expected standard of quality, specification and end-user satisfaction. From feasibility through to handover, Jo is hands-on with cost control, reporting, and value engineering — always keeping the client’s operational needs front of mind.
Jo brings deep sector knowledge and a practical, detail-focused approach to her work, supporting hotel clients through the challenges of design, construction and fit-out with calm, confidence and expertise.
More about Jo
What would you add to your dream home?
A renewable energy source — sustainability is a must.
How do you spend your time outside work?
Running, cooking, and eating out are my go-to ways to unwind.
What’s the strangest thing you’ve had to budget for on a project?
Children’s play equipment — sometimes the smallest line items come with the biggest surprises!
What project or client work stands out for you?
Managing the construction of a hotel in central London on a red route, beside a train and bus station, and above a tube line. The restrictions fundamentally shaped the design and logistics. The building had to match the exact weight of the structure it replaced — a fascinating design and engineering challenge.
What historic building would you love to work on?
The Church of the Transfiguration on Kizhi Island, Russia. Built in 1714 entirely from wood without a single nail, using interlocking logs — it’s a masterpiece of craft and ingenuity.
What achievement are you particularly proud of?
Setting up an internal maintenance helpdesk — from choosing and adapting the software to recruiting and managing the staff. It was a complex process with lasting impact.
