Passion and opportunity discussed at the Future Talent Conference

Having energy, passion and pride is key to success in the housebuilding industry, according to Matthew Pratt, ceo of Redrow and group executive director of Barratt Redrow.

Speaking at the Home Builders Federation’s Future Talent Conference in Birmingham, Pratt told housebuilder graduates, trainees and degree apprentices that if they wished to become future leaders, curiosity and the wish to challenge were also important.

And, he said, those early in their housebuilding careers should explore other areas of the sector to gain a full appreciation of it, before “you start getting promoted” and those opportunities disappear.

Pratt stated: “If you have an opportunity to do something else within the industry, take it. You will never get that chance again. Walk down to the sales department.”

He related this to his career beginnings as a labourer, which gave him a well-rounded knowledge of housebuilding. “I knew the first fix guys. I could put that into practice as a quantity surveyor (the next step in his career).”

Pratt reflected on becoming a ceo- not his original intention- and what it takes to become one. He advised “hard work, managing in all areas”- including managing other chief executives’ expectations- being “that person …