Constructing Excellence South West – be part of construction’s change agenda

The construction industry is facing many challenges to overcome on both a regional and national level, from supply chain issues and skills shortages to building safety and hitting net zero targets.

Although it may seem like a daunting task, if the right solutions are found then the opportunities for the industry are immense. And, instead of waiting for it to happen, construction companies can take a more proactive role in shaping the industry’s future.

Constructing Excellence South West (CESW) is a not-for-profit member led organisation charged with driving the change agenda in construction within the South West as part of the Constructing Excellence Regional Partnership (CERP). It exists to improve industry performance to produce a better built environment for the benefit of its clients and all stakeholders.

“The challenges in the construction industry are well known and, after the twin disrupters of Covid and Brexit, this year is a hugely important one for helping to identify how the industry will look in years to come,” comments Andrew Carpenter, CEO of CESW.

“The best way to tackle these ongoing issues, influence change in the sector, and make a real difference is through cross-sector collaboration across all levels of the supply chain, and coming together to share best practice principles.”

Becoming a member of CESW

CESW membership brings practical support for all its members and offers a vast number of chances to network and work alongside like-minded people from the sector.

Sharing best practice, transferring knowledge and improving understanding of key construction principles and objectives are some of the main drivers for CESW and therefore, is a key focus for its members.

Additional member benefits include accessing a number of bespoke tools and techniques designed specifically for teams working within the built environment. Teams are also invited to attend exclusive seminars, workshops and are even offered discounted rates for industry specific conferences. Creating activities like these means peers can share valuable experience and insight, while continuing to learn and develop – which is crucial.

Paul Richards, Managing Director of Aquarian Cladding Systems, a leading specialist supplier of external brick and terracotta cladding systems, has been a member of CESW for over seven years and is currently on the board. He said: “As Managing Director, I wanted to keep abreast of best practice and to find a way to apply it to the business. Up until joining CESW I had always been a supporter of the industry’s change agenda but had become frustrated at the amount of talking shops that never seemed to deliver solid action.

“Having attended a few events, and speaking to other members, it was quickly apparent that CESW is focussed on delivering tangible results. To be able to play a part in the change agenda and join with other members to use our influence to find solutions that take the whole sector forward is important.”

Raising business profile through CESW

CESW membership not only offers a range of practical opportunities and support but also helps to raise the business profile for its client and increase the likelihood of new business opportunities.

The best way to influence change in the sector is through collaboration. Constructing Excellence South West is a cross-sector, cross-supply chain member led organisation operating for the good of the industry and its stakeholders.

Its membership provides a vast number of opportunities for players in the built environment to come together and share best practice principles to drive real change.