James Rowbotham takes the helm of the Construction Productivity Taskforce, a pivotal move in addressing the sector’s productivity challenges.
- The Construction Productivity Taskforce was founded by the business campaign group Be the Business to enhance productivity within the UK construction industry.
- Productivity within the construction sector has been notably stagnant, with growth significantly trailing behind the wider UK economy.
- The taskforce advocates for innovation through automation, digital technology, and upskilling to drive productivity improvements.
- James Rowbotham acknowledges the economic pressures on construction, highlighting the collective effort required to achieve desired productivity gains.
James Rowbotham steps into the role of chair for the Construction Productivity Taskforce, succeeding Nigel Webb. This appointment is crucial for steering efforts aimed at improving productivity in the UK construction industry, historically lagging in terms of productivity gains compared to other sectors.
The Construction Productivity Taskforce, established by Be the Business in 2020, brings industry leaders together to explore and implement strategies for boosting efficiency within the sector. Its membership includes key players such as British Land, GPE, Landsec, Lendlease, Mace, Morrisroe, Sir Robert McAlpine, and Skanska, ensuring a comprehensive and collaborative approach.
The construction industry has faced persistent productivity challenges. While the rest of the UK economy experienced a 53% increase in productivity over two decades, the construction sector’s productivity rose by only 12%. Such figures underscore the urgency and significance of the taskforce’s mission.
James Rowbotham, drawing from his experience as a director at Landsec, an influential property developer, acknowledges the pressing need for enhanced productivity amidst challenging economic conditions. ‘The current economic environment is particularly tough on the construction sector so the need for the work undertaken by the taskforce has never been greater,’ he states.
Through initiatives like the Trust & Productivity: the private sector construction playbook, the taskforce pushes for greater productivity through innovation. The playbook, among other measures, emphasizes the potential of automation, digital technologies, improved management practices, upskilling, and waste reduction as pathways to enhance productivity.
Katy Dowding of Skanska UK, a founding member of the taskforce, speaks to the substantial impact expected under Rowbotham’s leadership. ‘James’ appointment as the new chair of the taskforce gives us a tremendous opportunity to build on the work that the group has already done and have a significant impact on the industry over the next three years.’
The taskforce continues to rally industry-wide participation and collaboration to ensure realised improvements, leveraging a collective resolve to address longstanding productivity issues.
James Rowbotham’s leadership is poised to drive a new era of productivity enhancements in the construction industry through strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts.
