Meet Jules - Site Manager of Lyons Place

Meet Julian Sanfillipo - the Site Manager from Figurehead Construction looking after the delivery of Lyons Place in Ballarat Central.

Originally a carpenter, “Jules” has been with the Figurehead team for 6 years, starting as a site supervisor before transitioning to a manager role. “It all evolved naturally,” he says. “I was running sites, making decisions, and before I knew it I was stepping into site management'“.

As Site Manager, Julian is responsible for the on-site execution of Lyons Place, working alongside Project Manager Caleb McGrath to bring the city’s soon-to-be tallest building to life.

The project has presented unique challenges, requiring careful planning, adaptability, and strong coordination between teams, trades and consultants.

"Without a tower crane, we’ve had to rethink everything—mobile cranes, multiple setup locations, constant recalibration. You’ve got to be adaptable and think ahead."

But problem solving is part of the job and Jules thrives on that aspect. A chippy by trade, Jules brings a layer of technical expertise and a builder’s eye to every project — ‘if I’m on-site there’s a tape measure on my waist - it’s a habit I’ve never shaken’ .

Images: Jules outside Earls Deli at Nightingale Ballarat taken and shared by Figurehead Construction.

Moving to Ballarat meant a noticeable shift in pace. “The noise is the biggest difference. It’s quieter, calmer with a stronger sense of togetherness.”

Managing a major build in a regional town? No problem. But moving away from his favourite Italian deli? A worry.
“I was afraid I’d miss out on good cold cuts here, but Carbonis has delivered”.

Mornings at Lyons Place start with a coffee at Earls Deli often crossing paths with the Lyons Place project team including project developer Hygge next door — “we’ve built a great relationship’ and have a shared focus on clear communication and delivering on quality.

When he is not on-site, Jules has been exploring Ballarat’s food scene, getting to know the city and embracing the slower rhythm.

Jules wants Lyons Place to feel like it belongs.

"The people here are proud, and word spreads fast. I’d like this project to feel like it’s always been here, a natural part of the streetscape."

Artist impression of entry to Lyons Place