Getting to know... Craig McClen

In the latest instalment of Bdaily’s Getting to know... feature, which looks at the person behind the business profile, Craig McClen, director of North East-based PCD (UK) and Tantallon Homes, talks about getting a feel for working life at 13, building the type of business he’s always wanted and his long-term vision for the future of housebuilding.

We know you as the director of PCD (UK) and Tantallon Homes, but who is the person behind the title? Tell us a little about what makes you tick…

I started at around 13 doing gardening work, which led into landscaping and then small building projects. 

That hands-on experience gave me a real grounding in the industry and a passion to build something special. 

I later went on to work with my dad, who has been a brilliant mentor, before studying quantity surveying. 

Since setting up Tantallon Homes, I’ve led some really exciting developments and projects across the North East and Scotland. 

Did you always want to work in housebuilding?

I’ve always enjoyed creating things from scratch and seeing something you’ve built come to life. 

A key moment came on my first large-scale development in Callerton in 2014. 

It’s where everything really started to come together. 

A big focus for me now is making sure we’re not just building houses, but creating places where people genuinely want to live.

What’s the best bit about your job? And the worst? 

The best bit is having been able to build the type of business I’ve always wanted and make a difference in a community I’m proud to be from. 

The worst bit is never switching off; however, I choose to see the good in it, as I’m lucky to be excited about what I do. 

I’m constantly thinking about our projects and I’m ambitious about what’s coming next.  

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement? 

My family.

I’ve got four children, including a new baby, so life is pretty busy.

Most of my free time is spent with family, which I wouldn’t have any other way.

How do you relax outside of work? 

Every now and then, it’s great to get away on a fishing trip with the lads.   

What makes the North East such a great place to live and work? 

It’s got a real sense of community, which is something you don’t find everywhere. 

There’s a strong work ethic, great people and a fantastic mix of coastline, countryside and city life. 

It’s a brilliant place to build a business and raise a family.

Tell us something about you we didn’t know…

I’m really invested in modern methods of construction and how they can improve quality, efficiency and sustainability. 

In the long-term, I’d like to see us continue to push standards forward and be part of that evolution in the industry.

I think there’s a real opportunity to raise the standard of new-build homes and create developments that feel considered, well designed and long-lasting. 

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