Diversity and Inclusion Key to Unlocking Collaborative Contracting

WITHOUT DIVERSITY, equity, and inclusion, opportunities for collaborative contracting will never be fully realised.

That was the message from Katy Dowding, president and CEO of Skanska UK, in a thought-provoking JCT Povey Lecture on 7 November 2024.

In her presentation, Katy explained how embedding a diverse and inclusive culture in the workplace and project team is a key part of unlocking the benefits of collaborative contracting.

Collaborative Contracting

Collaborative contracting brings the parties together and aligns goals. Ensuring diversity then identifies those that should be at the table to maximise the full range of perspectives and thought. Equity means that barriers to individuals being able to contribute are removed, whilst inclusion enables all voices to be heard.

When these factors are combined with an outcome-driven approach, it can enable businesses to achieve tangible economic and social benefits, driving long-term success.

Diversity and Inclusion Key

Katy also highlighted the role JCT has played fostering a collaborative approach. This is through the JCT – Constructing Excellence family of contracts. Moreover, the inclusion of collaborative working guidance in all JCT 2024 Edition contracts, and the change to gender-neutral language furthers the approach.

Katy Dowding said: “How we contract is considerably more collaborative. We are achieving better outcomes for our customers and our wider stakeholders, our working environments on projects are cleaner, more collaborative and we are more inclusive. What we really need to do now, is to accelerate our performance.

“I genuinely believe that the combination of inclusion and diversity with Collaborative Contracting is the move that can help us to achieve that step change.”

Following the presentation, Katy took part in an interactive audience Q&A, hosted by JCT chair, Karen Kirkham.

See the full presentation and Q&A:

The JCT Povey Lecture

The JCT Povey Lecture is an annual event where an eminent industry figure is invited to give their thoughts on significant construction and property industry matters. The lecture helps to stimulate thought and encourage ways of continuing to improve the quality and value of construction output.

JCT represents all parts of the construction industry, providing standard forms of building contract. Members include: British Property Federation, Build UK, Contractors Legal Group (made up of National Federation of Builders (NFB), Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA), the Scottish Building Federation (SBF) and the UK Contractors Group (UKCG)), Local Government Association, Royal Institute of British Architects, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and the Scottish Building Contract Committee Limited.

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