What Client Side Project Managers Wish Contractors Knew - Ben Cliffe - EP33

Ben Cliffe is a Project Manager and business owner who understands the construction industry from both a delivery and commercial perspective. Having worked closely with clients, contractors, and subcontractors, Ben has developed a clear view on where projects succeed and where relationships quietly break down. His experience navigating procurement models, retention clauses, and supply chain dynamics has shaped a practical, balanced approach to project management. In this episode, Ben shares his perspective on retention, risk allocation, and why stronger alignment between project managers and contractors is essential if we want a healthier industry. We explore: • Whether retention is still fit for purpose and why, if it’s due, it should simply be paid • How fluctuating material and labour costs have reshaped commercial risk on projects • The impact different procurement models have on contractor and subcontractor relationships • How PMs and clients can unintentionally create tension through unrealistic programmes and risk transfer • Why strong working relationships sometimes allow flexibility and when that flexibility becomes dangerous This is an honest, commercially grounded conversation about retention, risk, and responsibility in modern construction. A practical listen for project managers, contractors, and anyone navigating procurement, commercial pressure, and partnership in today’s industry.