Caddick Construction has appointed Paul Dodsworth as the new Managing Director. Caddick Construction and its subsidiaries form the construction division of Caddick Group and Paul will be head of all construction companies. Paul, who joins from Wates Group where he was Regional Managing Director North, is tasked with continuing Caddick
A BRAND-NEW cross-specialism group has been formed to bring together the brightest young minds across the construction industry. Looking to harness the power of collective innovation, the Future Innovation Group aims to tackle construction’s biggest issues and create a springboard for change, with new thinking from the leaders of tomorrow.
Derek Whitehead, Principal and CEO of Leeds College of Building, is to retire this week after 37 years working in Further Education and vocational skills training. From teenage Keighley carpentry and joinery apprentice to leader of the UK’s only General Further Education College that specialises in construction, Derek has spent decades
Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect, said: “During the first few months of the pandemic, the job security of construction workers was thrown into serious doubt, and sadly tens of thousands of employees lost their jobs. However, the latest ONS data shows that the situation has really turned
Industrial asset and property management specialists NSM has appointed Kim Howey as its new Property Manager for the North West. Kim joins the growing company – with offices in Warrington and Doncaster – to help manage a range of logistics, SME and office assets across the M62 corridor and Midlands.
Prologis UK, one of the UK’s leading developers of logistics property, has added two new hires to its Capital Deployment and Leasing team, as it looks to further grow its UK team and drive ambitious growth plans. Jason Pickering has joined as a director in the Capital Deployment and Leasing
The energy infrastructure specialist has announced David Mitchell as its new Director, effective from Thursday, 7 July. He replaces Ian Smyth, who will join Electricity North West as Chief Executive Officer later this year. David is an experienced leader who has worked for the company in its various forms since
Leeds College of Building may have scored the perfect course after launching a unique programme aimed at students interested in construction, but who love football too. The College is now enrolling for a BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Construction & the Built Environment, which incorporates an additional Level 1 Award in Football
The UK coatings industry faces a shortage of skilled staff, and an ageing workforce at a time when it is experiencing increasing demand for improved product performance and sustainable solutions. As the UK’s leading independent paint manufacturer, HMG Paints are investing significantly in staff recruitment across the business including in
CHAS, the supply chain risk management expert, has joined forces with the Supply Chain Sustainability School to introduce the Fairness, Inclusion and Respect (FIR) Growth Assessment. The assessment provides a framework for organisations to assess and embed the principles and business benefits of a fairer, more inclusive and respectful workplace.
Caddick Construction has appointed Paul Dodsworth as the new Managing Director. Caddick Construction and its subsidiaries form the construction division of Caddick Group and Paul will be head of all construction companies. Paul, who joins from Wates Group where he was Regional Managing Director North, is tasked with continuing Caddick Construction’s vision for strategic geographical and sustainable growth across its divisions. Paul brings with him more than 40 years’ experience across the construction sector and was credited with leading and growing Wates’ Northern Division, which is now recognised as one of the strongest in the Wates Group. Andrew Murray, Executive Chairman of Caddick Construction, said: “We are delighted that that Paul is stepping into this exiting role to lead all of our construction businesses, his hands on approach will strengthen the business and we all look forward to working with him. Paul replaces Adrian Dobson who has retired after almost 23 years on the board. Adrian held the Managing Director Position from 2019, he has been a key member of our board helping to guide the strong growth of the company to become one of the leading and largest independent contractors in the north of England. He will be sadly missed but we wish him well in his retirement and thank him for his massive contribution since joining us in 1999.” Paul Caddick, Chairman of Caddick Group, comments: “Paul has the passion and character to take on the formidable challenges the market currently presents. His experience and ability will drive our aspiration for continued growth as a sustainable forward-thinking business.” Caddick Construction is planning to expand its regions of operation and increase its activity in the residential sector. It will also support the growth of Casa by Moda by delivering the construction of Moda Living’s single family home brand, alongside other key projects across Yorkshire, North East and North West. Paul Dodsworth added: “This is an amazing opportunity and I’m looking forward to being part of the Caddick team that has enjoyed so much success over recent years. I’m particularly excited by the opportunities currently being presented in both the residential and logistic markets. I was immensely proud to be asked to join Caddick Construction. A very well established, respected and financially strong business. The aspirations of the business to expand its geographical footprint, whilst further developing the existing regions, is a challenge I will embrace and drive. I am looking forward to joining on the 1st August 2022.” Caddick Construction is currently managing a very strong order book, with high-profile projects including the Bradford City Park, a transformational five storey office scheme in the heart of Bradford city centre and 331 apartments in two buildings at SOYO Leeds for Caddick City Living forming Federated Hermes Hestia BTR brand. Across the Pennines, Caddick Construction has just completed Spitfire Court in Speke on behalf of Network Space, a 138,000 sq ft industrial scheme that is breathing new life back into a defunct brownfield site. Its residential sector is also going from strength to strength, where the team is currently working with York City Council on two ambitious “Passivhaus” sustainable developments for the city, as well as delivering 37 high quality apartments on the former Pontefract Fire Station site on behalf of Wakefield District Housing. In Leeds, Caddick Construction is progressing a 112-housing development at Stonebridge Beck, Farnley, on behalf of joint developers Rushbond and Advent Developments.
A BRAND-NEW cross-specialism group has been formed to bring together the brightest young minds across the construction industry. Looking to harness the power of collective innovation, the Future Innovation Group aims to tackle construction’s biggest issues and create a springboard for change, with new thinking from the leaders of tomorrow. Led by a steering group of placement students, the initiative is open to young people in any construction-related business sector – from contractors to marketeers – and is backed by industry-leading companies including Morgan Sindall and Pagabo, Pick Everard, Wates, ISG and Faithful+Gould. Statistics show that the construction industry struggles to attract and retain people at early-stage career level, so the group is aiming to identify the reasons for this and rectify these points to build a more attractive and diverse sector. It will also look to harness the power of information, working towards making the sector more data driven. To signal the group’s focus on innovation and operating in a data-first manner to attract young talent, the group’s first major event will be an industry-wide hackathon, featuring work sessions and talks from industry leaders. Rebecca Rennie, placement engineer and site manager at Morgan Sindall, is on the group’s leadership panel along with Jamie Davison and Abi Riddle, also of Morgan Sindall. She said: “Our main goal in launching the Future Innovation Group is to bring likeminded young people from any area within the construction industry together, to discuss how we can make it a more attractive place for future generations. “We hope the group will be a springboard for change, identifying why junior recruitment has become such a pervasive issue, and how we can rectify it to build a better industry for all stakeholders. We would like to express our gratitude to the industry for supporting us in our new venture and look forward to working with the construction leaders of today to inspire the leaders of tomorrow.” National framework provider Pagabo has put its weight behind the initiative, helping to bring people together from across its expansive ecosystem. Gerard Toplass, CEO of The 55 Group, which is Pagabo’s parent organisation, said: “Only 25% of the 40,000 people starting qualifications complete the process and stay in the construction industry – showing a 75% drop off rate which suggests the courses are unappealing to young people. This is an alarming statistic and a great cause for concern regarding the future of our workforce as we need to adapt in order to suit the requirements of tomorrow – and thus far have been too slow to do so. “The Future Innovation Group will bring much-needed diversity to the industry and I applaud the work of founders Rebecca, Jamie, Abi, and everyone involved in driving the change needed for a better future for those in entry-level positions.” The FIG’s first hackathon will take place across two days (28-29 July) at the Hilton Hotel in Hull, bringing together 50 attendees from across the industry. The event will feature business sponsors from senior leaders of some of construction’s biggest names, including the group’s Morgan Sindall and Pagabo backers. The group’s leadership will pass on to the next generation of young people in September as the 2022 cohort return to university this autumn. If you would like to get involved with the Group, contact: Jamie Davidson, Abigail Riddle or Rebecca Rennie.
Derek Whitehead, Principal and CEO of Leeds College of Building, is to retire this week after 37 years working in Further Education and vocational skills training. From teenage Keighley carpentry and joinery apprentice to leader of the UK’s only General Further Education College that specialises in construction, Derek has spent decades training and leading the next generation of builders, engineers, and construction-craft professionals. Derek began hiseducation at Ingrow School, Bronte School, and Oakbank Grammar school in Keighley. From a young age, he excelled at craft skills and thrived in woodwork and metalwork. Derek cites a local teacher who changed the course of his life after recognising Derek’s potential. Derek said: “I always preferred hands-on learning, and it was a teacher at Oakbank – David Carter – who told me I had a knack for passing on my knowledge and passion for the subject, even at age 16. I was always in the workshop after school and would help other students where I could, especially if the woodwork teacher wasn’t available. “David stretched me, pushing me to try more complex techniques. I made various furniture items, learnt to French polish, and even turned rosewood handles for a bedside oak cabinet that my parents still have to this day! He sowed the seed that I should teach others too, even though I tended towards being more practical than academic.” Derek left school at 16 and joined the construction industry as Apprentice Carpenter & Joiner at Norman Hollins Ltd and then JSD Hamilton (Construction) Ltd. He gained a fantastic grounding in bespoke joinery products, new build housing, renovations, and shopfitting projects. It was a great platform to learn broader construction skills too.Yet, despite becoming a qualified construction worker, Derek’s experience at grammar school reinforced his desire to teach. Derek’s first teaching job was in 1985 at Keighley College’s Carpentry & Joinery Department, where another lecturer (Peter Hakes) mentored him. It wasn’t long before Derek enrolled at HollyBank to study professional Teacher Training qualifications, followed by Bradford College to attain a teaching degree. Derek was then promoted to Section Leader for Timber Trades before leaving Keighley for a role at Bolton College as a Senior Lecturer. After that, Derek became Head of Construction and led self-assessment quality assurance across Bolton College. By the time Derek left Bolton, he was responsible for the Construction & Engineering faculty. He returned to Keighley College, this time as Head of Construction & Engineering. Then in 2004, Derek interviewed for Deputy Principal – Curriculum & Quality at Leeds College of Building and was selected for the role.Derek said: “Getting the post at LCB was such a fantastic accolade, especially with it being the only General Further Education College nationally that specialised in construction and the built environment education & training. I felt like I was back to my roots – where industry training moulds individuals into construction specialists. I am a massive advocate for vocational skills training and the vast opportunities this can unlock. “I loved working at the College so much that I continued in this role before becoming Principal & CEO. I have fully enjoyed all 18 years that I have spent at Leeds College of Building. I’m delighted to be leaving the College in such good shape. Inspections now show quality at ‘good or better’, our HE meets all UK standards, we achieved ‘good’ in our most recent Ofsted inspection, the ESFA gave us a ‘good’ rating too for our healthy financial position. Leeds College of Building now trains around 5,500 students from across the UK, covering 16-18 full-time study programmes, adult provision, HE courses, and bespoke programmes for employers. Over half of these students (around 2,800) are enrolled on apprenticeship training across all areas of the College’s provision, from Level 2 up to degree apprentices. Derek continued: “I’m extremely glad my teacher showed me how vocational training – such as apprenticeships – can lead to various careers and job roles. Schools play a critical role in showcasing vocational training as a viable, alternative route to reach the same endpoint as academic qualifications. These skills can lead to jobs at all levels and involve travel and an extensive variety of work, with lasting legacy projects. “It’s so gratifying to see former students running successful companies themselves, as well as attracting a more diverse cohort of students to the sector today. We have come such a long way. So, this seems the right time for me to step down. “I have lots of plans with my wife Heather (who retired from her role as Principal at Keighley College a few years ago). We hope to travel and see friends. We’re very active so enjoy walking and spending time with family. I have lots on my bucket list! I met my wife at Keighley College, and like me, she came from a vocational background as an apprentice too (Hair & Beauty in her case). Our families were thrilled when we became lecturers, so both progressing to the top of FE institutions was a very proud moment. “I have never lost a love of construction after all these years. Although Further Education is a challenging sector, to help students develop skills that can make a transformative difference to their future and society is an absolute privilege. It is the accomplishment of which I’m most proud. “I would like to give a special thank you to all employers and stakeholders who have supported the College, students, and me personally, over the 18 years I’ve been here. I trust the commitment and dedication will continue with my successor, Nikki Davis. Leeds College of Building is a fantastic organisation to lead, and I know it will continue to go from strength to strength. I wish the College, our stakeholders, my amazing colleagues and friends, and Nikki all the very best.” Nikki Davis, current Leeds College of Building Vice Principal for Teaching, Learning & Quality, will take up the role of Principal & CEO in August and becomes the first woman to hold the post in the 60-year history of the
Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect, said: “During the first few months of the pandemic, the job security of construction workers was thrown into serious doubt, and sadly tens of thousands of employees lost their jobs. However, the latest ONS data shows that the situation has really turned around. “At its peak in summer 2020, almost 30,000 workers were made redundant over a three-month period (July-September). “In contrast, the data released this month shows that just 3,000 people in the industry lost their jobs between March and May. While this is obviously still 3,000 too many, it shows a significant improvement. “In fact, 3,000 is the lowest that this figure has ever been, since records began thirteen years ago in 2009. “Elsewhere, average wages are on the rise, which, in the context of a major cost of living crisis, will be a welcome relief to many, albeit slight. Typical weekly earnings rose by £20 to £714, which is the second highest average ever recorded. “It’s really good news that redundancies are on the decline, and pay is increasing, but this pattern will have to continue in the coming months in order to offset the financial hardship that the country is currently experiencing.” For more information on IronmongeryDirect, visit: https://www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/ For more information on ElectricalDirect, visit: https://www.electricaldirect.co.uk/ References:
Industrial asset and property management specialists NSM has appointed Kim Howey as its new Property Manager for the North West. Kim joins the growing company – with offices in Warrington and Doncaster – to help manage a range of logistics, SME and office assets across the M62 corridor and Midlands. Its current portfolio under management has grown to £374m so far this year. She was previously residential and commercial property manager for The Next Big Thing, based in Liverpool, and before that worked for Regus as a Community Manager in Cardiff. Kim reports into Associate Director Jacqui Saunders and will be part of the Property Management team that manages 577 units nationally with a rent roll in excess of £20.67m. NSM Managing Director Nicky Jones said: “Kim’s experience in both commercial property and asset management is a welcome addition on to the team and she has hit the ground running. Her knowledge of the North West property market is very strong and is already proving to be a real asset, both with our clients and their tenants.” Kim added: “I’m delighted to be joining NSM which holds a large and diverse portfolio of assets. My background has been in commercial space but more recently I’ve moved into residential property management, so the fit with NSM is ideal. I’m looking forward to being able to add to my knowledge in the larger commercial property section and I’m very excited to be starting this new chapter in my career.” NSM is in a uniquely strong position, in addition to managing more than 5.4 million sq. ft of industrial property across the north, the company also markets many of the properties, handles lettings and is overseeing the delivery of new builds which will ultimately come into the management portfolio.
Prologis UK, one of the UK’s leading developers of logistics property, has added two new hires to its Capital Deployment and Leasing team, as it looks to further grow its UK team and drive ambitious growth plans. Jason Pickering has joined as a director in the Capital Deployment and Leasing team, following six years at Cushman & Wakefield. With extensive experience in industrial and logistics capital markets, and a specific focus on South East and national developments, he will be helping Prologis to continue expansion plans in London and development of urban logistics offering. Ryan Gordon also joins the company as a Capital Deployment and Leasing director, after working for Stripe Street for eight years. There, his role as an agent for Aldi Stores UK aided in the supermarket’s expansion, with a particular focus on site acquisitions in London and the South East. Alongside his experience as an agent, Ryan is a chartered surveyor, and has an in-depth knowledge of the land acquisition and property development process from start to finish. In their new roles, both Jason and Ryan will focus on land and investment acquisitions in Prologis’ strategic priority regions within London and the South East, using their complimentary skills and 14 years of combined experience to support the firm’s ambitious growth plans. Paul Weston, Regional Head of Prologis UK, said: “It’s great to have Jason and Ryan join our business, both highly qualified to drive forward our significant growth ambitions for London and the wider South East of the UK. In 2022 we have announced six new hires who will focus on the region and will soon be moving into new London offices to provide the team with an exciting new collaborative hub. “I’m looking forward to working with Jason and Ryan and supporting their career aspirations here at Prologis”. Both Ryan and Jason will be based in Prologis’ London office. RE: IMAGE Left -Right / Jason Pickering, Ryan Gordon. Prologis UK
The energy infrastructure specialist has announced David Mitchell as its new Director, effective from Thursday, 7 July. He replaces Ian Smyth, who will join Electricity North West as Chief Executive Officer later this year. David is an experienced leader who has worked for the company in its various forms since joining as an apprentice in 1980. In his most recent position as Head of Client Delivery, David has been responsible the delivery of major projects for key clients including works at Hinkley Point C, Great Western train line (GWEP) and London Underground. The internal promotion reflects UK Power Networks Services’ commitment to long-term expertise and professional development within the firm. The announcement comes during an exciting period of growth for UK Power Networks Services, as it continues to deliver for existing clients and expand to support industries through the sustainable energy transformation. The company’s clients include some of the UK’s highest profile business, including airports, ports, rail operators, public sector developments, utilities, manufacturers, and logistics firms. Last month, the company announced a new three-year project with the Port of Felixstowe, the UK’s largest container port, to meet its Net Zero aspirations, reduce emissions, and increase the resilience of the port’s electricity network. New Director David Mitchell said: “I’m of course delighted to be stepping into this role. This is a hugely exciting time for UK Power Networks Services as we continue to deliver a bright energy future for our clients. There is plenty of work to do to meet the challenge, but I believe we have the right blend of skill, experience and determination to deliver.” Basil Scarsella, CEO of UK Power Networks, said: “David is an outstanding leader with a proven track record. His determination and passion will allow UK Power Networks Services to continue to support some of the UK’s most important industries through this critical phase in the transition to Net Zero.” Find out more about UK Power Networks Services: https://www.ukpowernetworksservices.co.uk/
Leeds College of Building may have scored the perfect course after launching a unique programme aimed at students interested in construction, but who love football too. The College is now enrolling for a BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Construction & the Built Environment, which incorporates an additional Level 1 Award in Football Coaching. This unusual pairing of premier qualifications is already proving popular with practically-minded students who are passionate about the beautiful game. “To my knowledge, no other specialist colleges like ours offer a football academy like this alongside non-sports courses. This is the perfect option for anyone interested in developing their football skills whilst studying a construction BTEC. By the end of the course, students will have a Level 2 qualification suitable for various careers in construction but also be qualified as a Level 1 Football Coach,” said Denis Metcalf, Student Liaison Officer and Football Academy coach at Leeds College of Building. “This tailor-made course offers more vocational options. It aims to provide a broad understanding of the construction industry, while giving students the freedom to play football every Wednesday in the ESFA College league. Students train every Monday with a qualified UEFA B football coach at Goals Soccer Centre and become a level 1 football coach – all in one year!” The BTEC programme includes units on construction technology, scientific and mathematical applications, design, processes and operations, and drawing techniques. It also incorporates elements of carpentry and joinery, brickwork, painting and decorating, and plastering, ensuring students are even more employable and able to specialise as they enter the construction industry. Simultaneously, the football academy programme teaches a range of transferable skills, player and coach development, passing, shooting, dribbling and attacking, FA Emergency Aid, and FA Safeguarding. “On top of the Level 1 Award and BTEC Level 2 Certificate, students study Maths and English, gain work experience and employability skills, participate in a National Citizen programme, with the chance to go on a summer residential, and get weekly access to JD Gym. Combined, this is an amazing offer,” added Steve Connell, Assistant Faculty Director in Construction Crafts at the College. To apply, students must be over 16 and have 5 GCSEs including Maths & English at grade 3 plus three other subjects with an average grade 3. After completion, options include Apprenticeships, BTEC Level 3 qualifications, further football coaching development, or entry into the exciting and varied field of construction. Building, Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction and Property News
The UK coatings industry faces a shortage of skilled staff, and an ageing workforce at a time when it is experiencing increasing demand for improved product performance and sustainable solutions. As the UK’s leading independent paint manufacturer, HMG Paints are investing significantly in staff recruitment across the business including in their research and development facilities and pro-actively working to attract experienced coatings formulators whilst also developing the next generation of staff to handle these challenges. “People are at the heart of HMG and we’re always looking to create the best environment for our people to thrive” commented Steve Crossman, COO. “Be it the annual staff BBQ, 1pm Friday Finish or Christmas & New Year off we always try to ensure we provide a great work life balance where our staff can develop professionally and personally.” The nature and variety of HMG’s customer base & product portfolio means that there is a broad range of roles and opportunities within the company from apprentice and graduate opportunities in production and operations to roles for experienced chemists within the Laboratory. These roles include technical positions such as paint technologists, research & development chemists and colour specialists with one eye on a sustainable, net zero future. Believe it or not the company even have roles that require watching paint dry. HMG’s portfolio of wet paint and aerosols cover virtually every type of surface imaginable across a whole host of industries including industrial, commercial vehicle, decorative, automotive, defence, toll manufacturing, wood finish and arts & craft and the company is now looking to further develop its staff to handle increased customer demand. Colourful Career Opportunities One area HMG has really pushed the boundaries over the last few years is within their Advanced Colour Design department. The success of the department means that HMG are now looking to further expand its colour development and formulation team who are responsible for the companies library of over 90,000 colour formulations. The Advanced Colour Design team work very closely with customers to develop bespoke colour options and solutions for customers in a variety of fields including decorative, automotive, model and hobby. The team have worked on a number of high-profile projects including the Jaguar CX-17 (F-Pace), paint for Aston Marin Racing that was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show, a unique gold for angel statues at the Parisian Hotel and Casino in Macau, interior design palettes for leading decorative brands and the team even worked on the restoration of Emerson Fittipaldi’s iconic Lotus F1 car along with many other projects. Training and Development “HMG Paints has a long and proud history of developing our own technical team and we have some very exciting opportunities available as our business continues to grow” commented COO, Steve Crossman. “Having started myself as an apprentice in the laboratory I know first hand about the exciting challenges and opportunities that lie within HMG Paints. We have a great track record of nurturing our own talent in-house but also combining that with attracting experienced professionals within the coatings industry.” After various roles in the laboratories including development chemist and Technical Director, as COO Steve is now keen for the next generation of talent to be developed within HMG. A key facet of this is utilising the knowledge and experience of existing lab staff and combining that with training organisations, courses and guidance provided by PRA, BCF and OCCA. The coatings industry and HMG’s broader appeal can be further strengthened with links to academic institutions, illustrated recently by HMG’s participation with the Chemistry in Industry module conducted by OCCA at the University of Salford. This route has helped HMG produce a number of home-grown coating chemists over the years including Darren James, who is a previous recipient of the British Coatings Federation Student of the Year award. This award is presented to the student who, in the opinion of the tutors of the Coatings Training Institute, has consistently demonstrated the highest level of understanding and achieved outstanding scores in examinations and practical work when completing their training modules. “I was over the moon! Being up against people who had much more chemistry experience behind them, I didn’t think I was going to win. The help and guidance of my colleagues at HMG really helped with my development. I now work on some very innovative projects for our customers and it’s a very proud feeling when you see products you developed being used in the real world to solve customers’ problems.” said Darren. Another success story of HMG’s investment in staff and training is, HR Assistant Melissa Strowbridge. Melissa has recently completed her Degree Apprenticeship at the University of Salford and has also talked at the Houses of Parliament about the importance of apprenticeships. Melissa added, “The benefits of doing the degree via an apprenticeship route was that I was able to apply my learning directly to the workplace. Throughout the programme I developed both professionally and personally and I can now bring these skills into the workplace. I have a fantastic grounding for the future thanks to the University of Salford and HMG.” Varied Products HMG Paints provide coatings across a spectrum of industries which creates great variety in the projects their technical team work on. Many of the projects are also innovative within the coatings industry. HMG were the first paint manufacturer to develop and commercialise Graphene containing coatings for a variety of industries, with the coatings today being used on Commercial Vehicles across the UK. On the other end of the development spectrum, Graduate Apprentice Avese Umar has recently led the redevelopment of the company’s artist Oil Colours. The range originally developed in the 1940’s has been reformulated to combine traditional performance with modern and sustainable raw materials. The range is used by leading artists including Carl Melegari, Frank Auerbach and Jake Attree, with artworks that use the range hanging in galleries across the globe. To see a full list of HMG Paints products and services visit www.hmgpaint.com via the website you can
CHAS, the supply chain risk management expert, has joined forces with the Supply Chain Sustainability School to introduce the Fairness, Inclusion and Respect (FIR) Growth Assessment. The assessment provides a framework for organisations to assess and embed the principles and business benefits of a fairer, more inclusive and respectful workplace. It has been specifically designed by construction clients, contractors and sub-contractors and is suitable for organisations of any size, large or small. Commenting on the new partnership, CHAS Managing Director Ian McKinnon says: “We are excited to join forces with the Supply Chain Sustainability School to further the construction industry’s progress in becoming more diverse and inclusive and make the sector a better place to work for everyone.” Promoting a culture of fairness, inclusion and respect has multiple benefits. Not only are diverse businesses more profitable, they are also better at attracting and retaining talent, as jobseekers increasingly favour employers that are committed to diversity and equality. Having a diverse workforce can also lead to better workplace performance by generating new ideas and perspectives, and increasing employee engagement. Furthermore, clients and large contractors increasingly expect their supply-chain partners to work with them to implement diversity and inclusion practices and policies. Become accredited Businesses can now become accredited for their commitment to promoting fairness, inclusion and respect via a new CHAS accreditation. The CHAS Fairness, Inclusion and Respect accreditation enables companies to confirm that they are embedding this issue within their organisation in line with industry best practice and guidelines. As well as helping companies demonstrate that they are responsible businesses, this can help them win more work. The assessment involves a mix of online questions and in-person interviews and considers the role of six key factors in effectively embedding a culture of Fairness, Inclusion and Respect, which include; strategy, leadership and governance; recruitment and development; working practices; the site environment, and the supply chain. Commenting on the launch of the accreditation, Ian McKinnon says: “As the industry becomes more attuned to the value of Fairness, Inclusion and Respect, it is a real benefit for businesses to be able to demonstrate that they are taking this issue seriously. “CHAS’s new accreditation provides reassurance that Fairness, Inclusion and Respect is being embedded effectively throughout an organisation in line with current best practice and guidelines. This in turn can help companies grow their reputations and businesses.” To find out more about the CHAS Fairness, Inclusion and Respect accreditation, call CHAS today on 0345 521 9111 or visit www.chas.co.uk Building Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction & Property News
