Construction Industry Recognition in the 2024 New Year Honours: A Detailed Overview

The 2024 New Year Honours list has marked a relatively subdued year for the construction sector, with only two prominent figures receiving accolades. This year's recognitions contrast sharply with the previous year's five honours within the industry, drawing attention to the sector's changing dynamics and the evolving criteria for national recognition.

Honourees from the Construction Industry

Graham Paterson, who previously served as the chief executive of City Building, a major Scottish construction firm, has been honoured with an OBE. His contribution to promoting equality and inclusion within the construction sphere has been noteworthy. Under his leadership, City Building, established by Glasgow City Council in 2006, has not only grown significantly but has also been notable for its inclusive employment practices, especially at Royal Strathclyde Blindcraft Industries (RSBI), where over half the staff have disabilities.

Ruth Devine, the managing director of SJD Associates and a leading figure in the field of education and apprenticeships, received an MBE. Her influential work with the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) includes developing vital apprenticeship programs and contributing to the update of several technical qualifications, reflecting her commitment to enhancing skill levels within the industry.

Comparative Analysis with Previous Years

The 2024 list shows a decrease in the number of honours compared to the previous year, where industry leaders such as Bill Robertson of Robertson Group and Andy Hill of Hill Group were recognised. This shift raises questions about the evolving perceptions and expectations of the construction industry, particularly in the wake of challenges like building safety issues.

Notable Contributions and Industry Responses

Graham Paterson's leadership at City Building is particularly significant, considering his role in the joint venture with Wheatley Homes and the management of a large workforce at RSBI. His sizable remuneration package upon retirement, noted by the TaxPayers’ Alliance, highlights his high-profile status within the sector.

Ruth Devine's impact on apprenticeships and technical education, including her leadership roles in various industry committees and councils, showcases her extensive involvement in skills development and industry standards.

Graham Watts, Chief Executive of the Construction Industry Council, expressed disappointment over the limited recognition of construction professionals in this year's honours list. His comments on LinkedIn reflect a broader industry sentiment that despite the sector's significant contributions, it remains under-acknowledged.

Broader Recognition in the Built Environment Sector

The honours list also recognised individuals from the wider built environment sector. Architect Patty Hopkins and Audley English, co-founder of the Society of Black Architects, received honours for their contributions to architecture and sustainability. Neil O’Connor, director of the Building Safety Programme, received a high honour, underscoring the importance of building safety in the current landscape.

Construction Industry’s Future Outlook

As the industry navigates its way through various challenges, from safety concerns to evolving skill requirements, the recognition of its leaders and innovators remains crucial. Platforms like Find A Start (www.findastart.co.uk) can play a vital role in addressing these challenges by connecting skilled tradespeople with contractors, facilitating the continual development of the construction industry. Their emphasis on ease of use and efficiency makes them a valuable resource for both tradespeople seeking opportunities and contractors needing skilled workers, especially in significant undertakings like those highlighted in the New Year Honours list.

For more information on how Find A Start contributes to the growth and development of the UK construction industry, visit their website at www.findastart.co.uk.