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Paul Devlin, CEO of Causeway Technologies, discusses the qualities every good leader needs – and how construction can inspire future generations
How did you know when you were ready for your first leadership role?
I’ve always been a person willing to take risks – for the right reasons – and leadership is all about being bold.
I think it was bred into me from an early age because, being the oldest of five children, taking charge came with the territory!
What is the most valuable training you’ve received and why?
The first piece of training sounds quite complex but has been fantastic in helping me deal with stress and remain calm under pressure.
Called neuro-linguistic programming, it explores how linguistic patterns shape perception and experience, and I came across it at quite a young age.
Neuro-linguistic programming explores how linguistic patterns shape perception and experience… It has been really helpful in not only enabling me to listen but also support how things are perceived and actioned – especially in others
It has been really helpful in not only enabling me to listen but also support how things are perceived and actioned – especially in others.
The second is more straightforward. It was completing a work-based master’s [degree] in sales transformation through Middlesex University and a company called Consalia.
The course is designed to give sales leaders the opportunity to learn, reflect and put that learning into practice in the workplace.
It gave me the space to experiment with concepts I’d been considering for some time, such as developing systems of leading indicators to support leaders and drive effective coaching.
It also helped me develop reflective practice and bring more structure to my leadership, and encouraged me to be brave in pursuing outcomes.
Of training generally, I would describe myself as a lifelong learner.
You’ve just been promoted to CEO – did you always want the role?
This is an interesting one. Before I joined Causeway, I was actually considering retiring.
I’ve had a long and successful career in sales and felt having taken a company to IPO, the time was right to take a step back.
So, I took some time off and undertook some part-time consulting work and continued with my learning journey.
Then, Causeway came along and – as they say – the rest is history.
I was very humbled by the opportunity to build on 26 years of fantastic history and to lead Causeway on the next leg of its journey.
My advice to others is: you never know where your life journey will take you, so always be open to opportunities and never stop learning. Always be humble.
What are the things you would change about the construction industry to help attract the next generation of talent?
Everyone knows that this is the great conundrum facing our industry. The skills shortage has been well-documented, but the irony is that it is such a great sector in which to begin your career.
I did, as an apprentice plumber, some 30 years ago and I’ve carried those real-world, practical skills with me as a result.
My advice to others is: you never know where your life journey will take you, so always be open to opportunities and never stop learning. Always be humble
Getting that message across to this and future generations is the challenge, and I would advocate more publicity for the many benefits on offer.
Not only is there good career progression but the potential to take on new skills with increased earning potential.
These are some of the things I would highlight, and a few I would change:
- Emphasise the increasing use of technologies in construction – for example, software, drones and virtual reality to illustrate that it is not an industry stuck in the past.
- Create more apprenticeship programmes that combine practical experience with formal education, and partner with schools and universities to showcase modern construction careers. Perhaps also consider bringing technology alongside the practical skills required to give apprentices a more holistic experience.
- Implement more flexible working arrangements where possible and improve site conditions and facilities. Focus on mental health support and wellbeing programmes and create more inclusive and diverse workplaces.
- Highlight the sector’s crucial role in fighting climate change through sustainable building practices. Showcase green building projects and innovative environmental solutions.
- Emphasise – particularly to the younger generation – that working in construction is an opportunity to make a difference to all our futures.
Finally, what advice would you give to a new construction recruit?
Be yourself. Be open, willing to learn, and be prepared to be surprised. Build good habits early.
And, if you can, find a mentor who can guide you through the industry or a company willing to work with you until you find your niche.
This is a fantastic industry, and it changes our world every day.
