Fostering Change: Collaboration and Cultural Shifts in Construction - Derek Rees & Sarah Winckless

Welcome to another insightful episode of Innovation Deciphered, where Ben Pritchard, Head of Innovation Management at Invennt, engages in a dynamic conversation with Derek Rees, Chief Executive of SECBE Ltd, and Sarah Winckless MBE, an Executive Coach and Leadership Development Specialist.


Derek Rees, the driving force behind SECBE, brings a wealth of experience and understanding of the challenges in the built environment sector in the South East. Trained in construction management: Derek's broader knowledge of the UK was honed through his work with the Construction Industry Board, the national strategic forum for construction. SECBE's mission is clear: to drive positive change through the built environment sector, grounded in core values of collaboration, innovation, and inspiration.


Sarah Winckless, with over 20 years of experience in high performance and corporate development at senior leadership and board levels, is a specialist in effecting cultural change. An Olympic and World Championship medallist in rowing, Sarah has also played a pivotal role as Chef de Mission for Team England and Team GB. Her influence extends to policy and strategy, particularly in the anti-doping landscape.


This episode delves into the people side of innovation, exploring topics such as culture, people, and the mindset surrounding innovation. Derrick Reece and Sarah Winckless discuss the pivotal role of people versus processes in idea development and implementation. They highlight the importance of diversity of thought and experience in developing transformative ideas and breaking free from the echo chamber of similar concepts.


The conversation touches on innovation in the construction industry, emphasising the need to champion each other and promote a culture of readiness to share. Collaboration is presented as a transformative tool to enhance the overall system. Drawing parallels with sports: The discussion unveils the transformative effect that occurs when resources are shared, benefiting everyone involved.


The exploration extends to examining potential business models and knowledge management issues within the construction sector. The conversation advocates for creating systems within and between organisations to foster collaboration. The guests distinguish between innovation and invention, emphasising the importance of applied learning throughout projects.


Addressing resistance to change and the comfort found in familiarity, the episode sheds light on the public relations challenges the construction industry faces.


As the episode concludes, practical advice is shared on how companies can foster innovation. The importance of placing value on thinking as much as on working is highlighted, along with the empowerment of everyone within the organisation. The concept of inverting the organisation is explored as a powerful strategy for encouraging innovative thinking.


Tune in to this thought-provoking episode as we navigate the multifaceted landscape of innovation, leadership, and cultural change in the built environment sector. Subscribe to Innovation Deciphered for more captivating discussions that shape the future of industries.