Willmott Dixon is partnering with BPIC Network‘s skills and labour supply social enterprise, Building Professionals, to launch a 12-month pilot careers programme.
The programme will create employment pathways for individuals from underrepresented communities into London’s construction sector.
The initiative will see at least 50 people from BPIC’s Skills Academy placed into construction roles across Willmott Dixon projects and its supply chain network over the next year.
The organisations will work in partnership, with Willmott Dixon providing financial support for the programme.
Richard Bartlett, director at Willmott Dixon Interiors, which is leading the initiative for Willmott Dixon, said: “This partnership with BPIC’s Building Professionals exemplifies our purpose in action – transforming lives and strengthening communities by removing barriers to opportunity.
“We’re not simply filling vacancies; we’re fundamentally changing how our industry identifies, develops and retains talent from communities that have been historically underrepresented in construction.
“By working collaboratively with [BPIC] and our supply chain partners, we’re creating a blueprint that can be replicated across London and beyond.
“This is about industry leadership – showing what’s possible when we align commercial success with social impact.”
Retaining and empowering talent
Amos Simbo, director at BPIC, added: “We are proud to be strengthening our partnership with Willmott Dixon.
“Over the past five years, BPIC Network has evolved into a recognised industry assurance body for inclusion, supported by the continued commitment of our industry partners.
“To enhance and streamline our operations, Building Professionals has been established as a talent and labour supply social enterprise subsidiary that creates a sustainable pipeline for diverse talent, providing opportunities from training through to employment.
“With a dedicated team of experts overseeing talent pipelines, training providers and sector engagement, this initiative represents an exciting new chapter in our mission to advance inclusion across the construction industry.
“Attracting new talent is only the first step; retaining and empowering that talent is equally vital.
“Our network and community ensure that people are supported with a continuous pathway for growth and progression across the sector, a truly holistic approach to career development.”
