FTC explores diversity, innovation and success

It is innovation that will drive diversity in housebuilding, according to Oliver Novakovic, Barratt’s technical and innovation director.

Speaking at the Home Builders Federation’s Future Talent Conference today (March 8), Novakovic said that with technological developments such as modern methods of construction (MMC), a range of people would be able to enter housebuilding, with MMC needing a “touch of a button”, not the use of heavy tools.

“Innovation will drive diversity,” Novakovic stated. He also talked of his enjoyment of innovating in low carbon homes delivery which, he said, Barratt had been leading on as a national developer.

“What I enjoy about innovation is proving people wrong,” he said, taking the audience of young graduates and trainees through Barratt’s journey so far on working towards net zero. “Everyone will tell you why [your approach] won’t work. But the ones who resist are your biggest champions if you can turn them.”

Returning to the diversity point, Novakovic stated that the challenge of innovating to meet net zero and halting climate change was a chance for everyone. “There are no rules. Everyone needs to be educated.”

Looking at how construction is faring with diversity, Cathryn Greville, …