HBF appoints Andy George to lead industry attraction and skills amid acute construction workforce shortage
In a significant move aimed at tackling the pressing skills gap within the UK construction sector, the Home Builders Federation (HBF) has appointed Andy George as its new Director of Industry Attraction and Skills. This strategic appointment comes on the heels of Jenny Herdman’s retirement, marking a pivotal moment for the organisation as it shifts towards a more focused approach in addressing industry challenges.
Andy George, who previously served as Head of Talent Management at Barratt Redrow, is no stranger to the complexities of the home building landscape, boasting over 20 years of diverse experience across various sectors including homebuilding, hospitality, and retail. His extensive background encompasses key HR and development roles, positioning him as an ideal candidate to lead the HBF's initiatives aimed at enhancing skills and attracting talent to the industry.
George's previous involvement with the HBF is noteworthy; he has chaired both the Skills and Supply Chain Engagement group and the Career Attract Group, underlining his commitment to fostering talent within the construction sector. Moreover, the transition of the Home Building Skills Partnership to the newly branded HBF Industry Attraction and Skills team reflects a strategic emphasis on creating a dedicated effort to rectify skills shortages. “I am delighted to be joining HBF at this exciting time for the industry and look forward to collaborating with its members as part of HBF’s Industry Attraction and Skills team,” George remarked, signalling his readiness to engage with industry stakeholders.
Neil Jefferson, the HBF's chief executive, has articulated the urgency of developing a skilled workforce to meet the UK government's ambitious housing targets. He emphasises that “the delivery of much-needed housing depends on a skilled workforce” and believes that George's extensive experience in talent acquisition will be key as the sector continues to grapple with its skills crisis. The announcement comes at a critical juncture for the industry, with reports indicating that the construction sector is facing an anticipated labour shortage that could hinder its growth and capacity to meet demand.
In response to these challenges, the HBF is advocating for stronger vocational education pathways, including enhanced apprenticeships and further education courses. Collaborating closely with employers and training providers, the HBF aims to bolster training initiatives that equip prospective workers with the necessary skills. This includes the innovative Partner A College initiative, a pilot programme designed to bridge the gap between educational institutions and construction firms, thereby fostering more effective training outcomes for students.
Additionally, the HBF has launched initiatives like the Women into Homebuilding programme to address gender disparities within the industry. This programme, which has garnered recognition in various industry awards, aims to empower women entering the field by providing them with training and support in site management roles. As of now, 25 women have already benefitted from this initiative, demonstrating the HBF’s commitment to diversifying the workforce.
Events such as the Future Talent Conference further illustrate the HBF's dedication to inspiring a new generation of home builders. The recent conference brought together over 100 apprentices and new entrants, providing them with invaluable networking opportunities and insights from industry leaders. Sessions focused on emerging trends, sustainability, and skills development, highlighting a comprehensive approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by the home building sector.
As Andy George embarks on this new role, it remains to be seen how his leadership will influence the HBF's strategies in cultivating a robust talent pipeline. Nevertheless, the necessity for a skilled workforce has never been more critical, and the HBF's proactive stance indicates a concerted effort to address the skills crisis head-on.