ME Consultant March 2021

JLL on how key sectors in Dubai and Abu Dhabi performed in 2020

ON TOPIC

Designing a safer future in the food and beverage industry

IN PRACTICE

Women in Construction: Gensler’s Luisa Coelho

ON SITE MARCH 2021

078

FOR THE CONSTRUCTION SPECIALIST

Saeed Al Abbar speaks to MEC about the company’s growth plans and ongoing focus on Net Zero

Championing Sustainability

Licensed by Dubai Development Authority

Contents | 01

22

March 2021 Issue 078

Cover Story

Championing Sustainability

Jason Saundalkar talks to Saeed Al Abbar about how AESG fared in 2020 in light of the outbreak of COVID-19, the firm’s growth aspirations for 2021, and its ongoing focus on Net Zero Opinion

Unlocking Opportunities WSP Middle East’s Dr. Mohamed Nazier says the construction industry has to ‘build back greener’ to unlock untapped economic opportunities in a post pandemic world

12 Analysis

16 meconstructionnews.com

Real Estate Review

JLL reviews how Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s real estate sectors fared in 2020 and predicts trends in 2021 March 2021

02 | Contents

Interview

Designing a Safer Future

Industry experts share their views and recommendations to address the immediate and potential long-term impact of COVID-19 on the food and beverage industry

36 Profile

Luisa Coelho

Jason Saundalkar talks to Luisa Coelho, associate at Gensler, about her influences, career and gender diversity in the construction industry

30 Opinion

Time to Diversify Construction Saifety.ai’s Prakash Senghani says the time is right to create a more inclusive industry, as major skill shortages become apparent and digital transformation gathers pace

8 Update

News

EmiratesGBC launches EmiratesGBC Women’s Network (EWN); India pavilion at EXPO 2020 to be complete by March 31; SSH says 50% of works complete on Al Andalus complex in Kuwait; SNC-Lavalin appoints Steve Morriss as president for Asia Pacific and the Middle East March 2021

18 meconstructionnews.com

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Group MANAGING DIRECTOR RAZ ISLAM raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5471 MANAGING PARTNER VIJAYA CHERIAN vijaya.cherian@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5713

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The Future Begins Now It’s been a year since the outbreak of COVID-19 began affecting countries in the Middle East. So much happened last year that I’m convinced we’ll never fully understand how much the pandemic affected our way of life. The good news is, 12 months on, we know more about the virus and are in a better position, overall, than we were six months ago, particularly as the rollout of vaccines gather pace.

It’s not quite a light at the end of the tunnel scenario however, and I think it’s important to understand that even as more and more people get vaccinated, COVID-19 isn’t going to just disappear one day.

At a recent JPMorgan Healthcare Conference, Stephane Bancel, CEO of COVID-19 vaccine maker Moderna warned that the virus will be around “forever”. Bancel’s comments echo that of numerous other public health officials and infectious disease experts in recent months, who’ve said there’s a high likelihood COVID-19 will become endemic, like the annual flu virus. The good news is that it will likely be at lower levels than it is now and, moreover, it fills in a critical blank with regards to the future.

I reckon the world will recover faster and more effectively if everyone operates under the assumption that the virus will always be March 2021

around, rather than hoping for it to disappear, so things can ‘go back to the way they were’. If a company or a person comes up with a vaccine that eradicates COVID-19, that will be fantastic news, but I think it’s time we stop waiting for a signal on how to proceed and get on with it.

Of course, the construction industry has a big part to play in the recovery from this pandemic. But, as we all know, in the complex world of engineering and construction, big transitions take time outside of the actual design, engineering and construction phases of projects. If we want to get back to what we were doing before the pandemic changed the world, the industry must begin taking steps to create a future where we can live with COVID-19, without lives and economies grinding to a halt.

A bonus of making this change also means that we will be in a better position to continue living and working, even if an all new, highly infectious disease comes to light.

While we’re at it, it’s also high time to do things more sustainably. The construction and usage of buildings and infrastructure are some of the biggest contributors to global warming and habitat destruction, and I think it’s high time we step up efforts to reduce our impact on the environment. Until next time, stay safe.

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I think if there is one thing these guys are all sharing is that the industry has to be realistic about how the year is going to pan out. I am sure GlobalData has done CONSTRUCTION

a thorough job in terms

Select Group launches latest project in Business Bay

of how the construction market in the region is reacting to the Covid-19 crisis but I would argue that

ANALYSIS: ALEC identifies key trends for the construction sector in 2021

the writing was on the wall for our mega-projects in the region going back 18 months

CONSULTANT

to 2 two years – possibly

Phase One of Sa’ada development in Bahrain now open says EMPC

longer. If you look at the big projects that are underway in Saudi Arabia, for instance, you can see that even they are having to balance out making a statement with making a development sustainable. And as painful as it may be in the short-

CONSULTANT

term that has to be a good

Intertek starts fire testing and certification services for Saudi building materials sector

thing going forwards. I firmly believe that the onus is now on the construction industry to prove it can be greener and is also willing to invest in its talent. Let’s make sure we also pack our brains as we find our

CONSTRUCTION

India pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai to be complete by March 31

March 2021

VIDEO: How BIM is at the heart of Amana’s award-winning achievements

feet again in the recovery!

Name withheld by request

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8 | On Topic

Network

EXPO 2020

EmiratesGBC launches EWN

India pavilion at EXPO 2020 to be complete

by March 31

The Emirates Green Building Council (EmiratesGBC) has launched what is billed as a milestone to strengthen the participation and leadership of women in the field of sustainability. The EmiratesGBC Women’s Network (EWN) is said to be an independent forum aimed at conserving the environment by strengthening and promoting green building practices.

EWN will serve as a platform for networking, mentoring and knowledgesharing for women across the region. The forum will be chaired by Farah Yassine, vice chair & board member of EmiratesGBC and led by a steering committee to support its overall direction, as well as future plans.

The network aims to increase engagement and support female sustainability professionals, thereby promoting inclusivity, diversity and women leadership. It will organise networking events and meetings in the first year, with planned growth to include a mentorship programme and competitions to upskill women, the statement said.

Yassine commented, “EWN is being launched to accelerate our progress in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Five - achieving gender equality and empowering women – especially in the sustainability sector, which plays a central role in supporting other SDGs such as affordable and clean energy for all. With a number of women already driving sustainable development programmes in the MENA region, the network will support them to excel further through EmiratesGBC’s capacity building initiatives.”

02 Building on India’s culture, heritage and technologies, including its space programme, the Pavilion will reflect ‘new India’ and show the strengths of its human resources and youth’s aspirations.

March 2021

01 01 The EmiratesGBC Women’s Network aims to conserve the environment by strengthening and promoting green building practices.

Construction works on the India pavilion at EXPO 2020 Dubai will be complete by March 31. The date was announced during a visit of a high-level team of officials to the headquarters and steel manufacturing plants of Conares in Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA), Dubai.

The Indian Pavilion delegation included Pavan Kapoor, ambassador of India in the UAE; Dr Aman Puri, consul general of India in Dubai; Dilip Chenoy, secretary general, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), Gunveena Chadha, assistant secretary general of FICCI, Praveen

02

meconstructionnews.com

On Topic | 9

Mittal, director of FICCI, and Pankaj Bodkhe of consul at CGI Dubai.

The FICCI is the industry partner of the Indian government for its participation at the World Expo. The delegation is seeking the support of Indian business leaders to make EXPO Dubai’s India Pavilion a huge success, said a statement.

“We have planned to showcase some great activities and programmes as our country’s achievements and diversity at the EXPO. The India Pavilion will also play a key role to make significant progress in several existing areas of cooperation between India and the UAE, in addition to exploring new opportunities.

Historically, the UAE and India share a special bond. The Indo-UAE bilateral relationship will witness another phase of development with India’s massive presence in the EXPO. Both nations are moving in positive directions. The UAE looks at India seriously, and positive interactions will benefit both the countries and the people,” explained Kapoor.

03 03 The Al Andalus complex is spread over 40,000sqm and is linked to a multilevel car park with approximately 1,200 parking bays.

Construction Update

SSH says 50% of construction works complete on Al Andalus complex in Kuwait 50% of construction works on the mixed-use Al Andalus complex in the Hawally district of Kuwait is complete, SSH have announced.

The project is being developed by the Ajial Real Estate and Entertainment Company.

According to a statement from SSH, all structural work has been completed and meconstructionnews.com

architectural finishes are heading towards the tower elevations and inside floors.

The project is spread across more than 40,000sqm and is linked by a pedestrian bridge to an existing multilevel car park with approximately 1,200 parking bays.

While conserving Kuwait’s traditional architectural identity and urban aspect, the project will offer various services for the public to enjoy, such as food and beverage outlets, retail and entertainment spaces that include 11 cinemas and a gymnasium, and also offices and clinics, the statement noted.

“We are honoured to be working with Ajial Real Estate and Entertainment Company on a project of this stature, which is set to become a significant entertainment hub in the popular Hawally district. The fact that the client awarded us this project based on our experience and expertise in the design of mixed-use retail and entertainment complexes in Kuwait, further strengthens our vision and mission to deliver another landmark project and to exceed our client’s expectations,” explained Khalil Alonaizi, resident director (Kuwait) at SSH. Cleverly designed outdoor spaces compliment the mall component, offering visitors a square plaza located outside, as well as patios, walkways and balconies among its seating areas allocated for the various food and beverage outlets, Alonaizi added.

March 2021

10 | On Topic

04 The Asia Pacific and Middle East regions represent significant growth opportunities for SNC Lavalin’s diversified engineering services.

Startup

04

New Appointment

SNC-Lavalin appoints Steve Morriss as president for Asia Pacific and the Middle East Steve Morriss has been appointed as the new president for Asia Pacific and the Middle East by SNC-Lavalin. Both markets are said to be important, high potential growth areas for the company. Morriss will report directly to the president and CEO of SNC-Lavalin and will also function as a member of the executive committee.

The firm stated that Morriss will the lead engineering services unit in the two regions, while unifying and consolidating existing operating businesses. The appointment is yet another important milestone in continuing to leverage global opportunities as a leading integrated professional services and project management company, said the company.

Morriss is a seasoned executive that brings a wealth of experience and global expertise that will enhance SNC-Lavalin’s growth capabilities in various markets, a statement from the firm said.

March 2021

Aldar Properties and startAD launch new programme for PropTech startups Developer Aldar Properties has launched Aldar Scale Up, which is billed as a corporate innovation programme. The new programme has been launched in partnership with startAD, an Abu Dhabibased global accelerator at NYU Abu Dhabi and is powered by its partner Tamkeen.

According to a statement, the platform will provide a gateway to tangible growth opportunities, build strong networks, and validate global PropTech startups to enter

and grow in the UAE market, through pilot projects with Aldar and many other leading industry players.

The inaugural edition of the programme will run virtually over a four-month period, at the end of which ten startups will have the opportunity to pitch to a selection committee.

Up to five startups will be awarded pilot projects with Aldar, the statement explained.

“Fostering a culture of innovation internally at every level of our business helps us create intellectual and practical progress at Aldar towards a better customer experience and lifestyle. This encompasses both product ideation and enhancements and further leads to improvement in processes and UX experiences. The Middle East and North Africa region is gaining significant strides in cultivating a startup culture and harnessing homegrown talent, with a record $1bn invested in startups in 2020. Total funding is up 13% from 2019, while later stage deals increased by 52% according to Magnitt’s 2021 Venture Investment Report,” said Maan Al Awlaqi, executive director, Strategy and Transformation at Aldar Properties.

05 Aldar says the startups will provide innovative and sustainable solutions in the real estate sector including effective energy management.

05

meconstructionnews.com

On Topic | 11

Infrastructure

06

06 Phase One of the Red Sea Project comprises 16 luxury hotels across five islands and two inland resorts. It will provide more than 3,000 hotel rooms.

Waste Management

TRSDC and Averda open integrated waste management facility The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) has opened a waste management facility that was developed, and will be managed, by Averda. The facility is designed to tackle all forms of waste generated during the construction of Phase One of the gigaproject and will enable the TRSDC to meet its goal of zero waste to landfill.

The new facility was inaugurated by Ian Williamson, Chief Projects Delivery officer at TRSDC and Malek Sukkar, CEO of Averda.

Williamson commented, “Averda has proven to be a reliable partner on our project, designing and delivering exactly what TRSDC required to meet our sustainability commitments. In my 40-year career, it’s the meconstructionnews.com

Egypt unveils major infrastructure project to connect to nine African countries first time I’ve seen a facility of this magnitude built at the outset of construction.”

Explaining the facility’s capabilities, the statement said that the tonnes of rubble, rock and concrete generated by the construction of the foundations, buildings and infrastructure are sorted and treated by special machinery, which converts them into smaller particles.

These are then reused for other purposes, such as aggregate for building roads.

The workforce employed to construct the first phase of the giga-project make up the population of a small town and create all the same varieties of household waste, the TRSDC explained. Dedicated recycling bins segregate waste, with recyclable glass, plastics, cans, paper and card being collected separately. These materials are then checked again before being baled and transferred to Saudi recyclers to be made into new products, the statement noted.

TRSDC also said that food and organic waste that is collected will be turned into compost, which will provide nutrient-rich material for the dedicated million-square meter landscape nursery built for the project, completed last year.

07 35 projects worth $953m will be rolled out

by Egyptian authorities in the coming months.

Nine have already been completed at a total cost of $19m.

Egypt has plans for a major infrastructure project that will connect the country to nine African countries.

The project includes the development of roads and railway systems, and will create a route from Salloum to Benghazi, explained Kamel Al Wazir, Egypt’s Transport minister. He added that the project will support Egyptian industry and labor, and will contribute to the transport of goods to Libya.

“There was coordination with Chad regarding whether the route passes from Sudan or Libya, and we settled on starting from Libya, then Chad and then Congo,” the minister noted during a plenary session of the Egyptian parliament.

The development of the railway is in parallel with the establishment of the express electric train, the minister noted. He said Egypt is working on a plan to establish 13 ports and a logistical centre.

07

March 2021

12 | On Topic

Real Estate Review JLL reviews how Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s real estate sectors fared in 2020 and predicts trends in 2021 Heading into a new year and new decade will invariably be overshadowed by a strange 2020. As we look back at the year that was, various facts, figures, and anecdotes tell a story about a world that wavered between uncertainty and hopefulness.

While we are yet to claim we are out of the woods confidently, the UAE has proven its resilience, growth, competitiveness and liveability. Through the strategic overhaul of measures to promote business readiness and changes to social and personal legislation to promote citizens and residents’ welfare, the country is paving the way for its success despite the 2020 setback. This is supported by the continued commitment to social development, including welfare, health, and education, as outlined in the 2021 federal budget ($15.9bn).

For real estate, and despite a slowdown in performance at the beginning of the year, the second half saw a revival of activity as lockdown measures eased and pent-up demand filtered through the residential market in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai. In the commercial sector, we witnessed a transformation in inventory with the delivery of the region’s first LEED Platinum building (ICD Brookfield) in Dubai. While the retail and hospitality markets continue to find their ground post-lockdown, strong domestic demand and active tech adoption have played in their favor.

These accounts highlight two critical themes accelerated by the pandemic, and March 2021

are likely to shape the real estate recovery in 2021: sustainability and tech adoption. While uncertainty will persist in the new year and the recovery will vary across sectors and industries, accelerating digital capabilities and focusing on sustainable performance can redefine business success.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi Residential Focus

After various lockdown measures put construction activity on hold in the first half of the year, H2 2020 saw a rapid recovery in residential project handovers, with 39,000 and 4,000 units added to the market over the year in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, respectively.

In terms of performance, Dubai’s sale prices and rental rates continued to register declines by 8% and 12% respectively in Q4 2020 versus Q4 2019. In perspective, Dubai sale prices are still 20% above the market low of 2010/2011, whereas rental rates are 4% below those averages.

Abu Dhabi saw sale prices and rental rates decline by 4% and 3% over the same period.

These marginal declines in performance can be attributed to the limited availability of investment-grade quality stock.

Despite the subdued performance, investment activity in the sector was quick to bounce back, particularly across the secondary market as end-users take advantage of the lower prices and favorable payment plans and interest rates. By year-end 2020, 58% of sales transactions in Dubai were recorded in the secondary market. meconstructionnews.com

On Topic | 13

meconstructionnews.com

March 2021

14 | On Topic

Dubai residential supply

595k Total stock

53k

-12% Y-o-Y rental rates

While we remain cautious in our future outlook and expect further single-digit declines in performance in the short term, particularly on the back of an oversupply in Dubai’s residential market, the sector is generally defensive compared to the commercial market. Therefore, activity is unlikely to drop significantly.

This sentiment is supported by the raft of reforms and the overhaul to personal and social laws, such as the 10-year and 5-year expatriate residency and changes to social and family laws. These changes reflect the progressive measures undertaken to improve living standards and promote domestic and foreign investments.

As for the nature of demand in the future, we expect this to focus on projects delivering true customer service through amenities, health & safety, and blended uses.

Developments meeting these requirements are set to outperform.

Office Market in Focus

Over 2020, Dubai’s office market saw a total of 194,000sqm of office GLA delivered, primarily in the DIFC and Downtown Dubai, increasing the total stock to 8.9m sqm. Meanwhile, in Abu Dhabi, 40,600sqm of office stock was added, bringing the total supply to 3.8m sqm.

Average Grade A CBD rents declined by 3% Y-o-Y in Dubai to reach approximately Abu Dhabi residential supply

Total stock

15k

2021 deliveries March 2021

8.9m Total stock

185k

-3% Y-o-Y rental rates

2021 deliveries

2021 deliveries

265k

Dubai office supply (sq m GLA)

-3% Y-o-Y rental rates

Dubai retail supply (sq m GLA)

4.2m Total stock

761k

-7% Y-o-Y rental rates

2021 deliveries

$455 per sqm. In Abu Dhabi, headline rents for Grade A offices also decreased by 2% to register $429 per sqm. Both office markets remain tenant-friendly as landlords offer incentives and attractive lease terms. In some instances, tenants have expressed interest in relocating to quality space, particularly in Dubai, resulting in greater polarisation across the market.

Looking ahead, we remain cautious in our outlook towards the office market in the short-to-medium term, as organisations evaluate and integrate distributed working models for the long term, which will ultimately impact real estate portfolios.

Data from our Human Experience employee survey reveals that 24% of employees want to work exclusively in the office, while 50% are asking for a hybrid approach. 26% are also eager to work solely outside the office, either at home (9%), in thirdparty places (1%) or a mix of both (16%). This new balance will likely reshape corporate real estate portfolios for many companies in the future.

Undeniably the retail sector is one which the pandemic has had an immediate and broad impact on, with lockdown measures forcing the shutdown of some retailers, and pushing others towards an omni-channel operation.

While this is not a new trend, the pandemic

has definitely accelerated this shift and the integration of other digital solutions in order to promote demand.

With lockdown measures now eased across the country, pent-up demand has and is expected to drive sales further across retail centres going forward. The uniqueness of the retail market and shopping experience, in addition to its social significance, cannot be overlooked. This is also supported by the opening of the market, particularly Dubai, to international tourists.

In terms of fundamentals, approximately 110,000sqm of retail GLA was added to the market in Dubai in 2020, bringing the total stock to 4.2m sqm. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi saw no new deliveries throughout the year, keeping the stock stable at 2.8m sqm.

761,000sqm of retail space is expected to handover in Dubai in 2021, the majority of which are super-regional developments that have been previously delayed. Similarly, in Abu Dhabi, super-regional malls also form a majority of the 293,000sqm expected to be delivered.

From a performance perspective, although discounts on base rents were limited, pure revenue share deals have now become more common. The average rental rates in primary and secondary malls have also declined by 7% and 10% for Dubai and Abu Dhabi respectively in Q4 2020 versus Q4 2019.

Abu Dhabi office supply (sq m GLA)

Abu Dhabi retail supply (sq m GLA)

3.8m

2.8m

Retail Sector Trends

Total stock

105k 2021 deliveries

-2% Y-o-Y rental rates

Total stock

293k 2021 deliveries

-10% Y-o-Y rental rates

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16 | On Topic

01 Dr. Mohamed Nazier is managing director – Transport & Infrastructure at WSP Middle East.

01

Mohamed Nazier “The future of our cities and nations is green.

But to unlock the untapped economic opportunities that exist therein, we need to ‘build back greener’” The unsustainable growth template of yesterday’s economic matrix leaves little to be desired as many nations now target a greener recovery. Whilst much is being conveyed around the need to ‘build back better’, I believe we need to go several miles further to ensure our communities, cities and nations are also ‘built back greener’.

Future-proofed solutions for energy, mobility, and infrastructure will be at the heart of the green recovery and transition. But first we need to provide a low-carbon roadmap that will tangibly stimulate economies in parallel with alleviating climate risks. Low carbon economies are resilient economies; the feasibility of achieving a green, equitable, resilient economic future will require a threepronged approach: Smarter energy solutions; Intelligent modes of transport; Integrated physical and digital infrastructure to support these innovations. Here’s a look at each area in more detail.

The End of the Fossil Fuel Era

As the world’s dependence on hydro-carbons dwindles in light of perspectives shifting away from traditional energy sources, a sustainable future is becoming more attainable. A recent collection of research papers by Stanford University found that energy for electricity, transport, and building cooling can be supplied reliably with nearly 100% renewable energy.

This is a welcome shift given the long-term March 2021

ability to diversify the energy mix, enhance energy security and provide clients with the means to create further efficiencies by digitally enhancing grids.

Adding to this, clean energy will stabilise the energy sector and boost economic output further by creating a new raft of ‘green’ jobs.

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), transforming energy systems based on renewables could boost global GDP by $98tn by 2050. The same report highlights this could create some 63m new jobs globally in renewables and energy efficiency. Renewable energy can also improve human wellbeing and overall welfare beyond GDP. According to the World Health Organisation, nine out of every 10 people on the planet breathe polluted air. Less pollutants translates into enhanced mitigation of health risks associated with emissions.

The ongoing pandemic has drastically accelerated the need for change. However, challenges still exist for many nations.

Although countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have embedded bold energy targets within their national visions, progress could be faster. Despite a slow start, positive signs are emerging from GCC countries as they pursue green futures being pioneered by nations such as the US, Germany, and several examples within the Nordics.

Whilst replacing fossil fuels with wind and solar power is a near-term possibility, meconstructionnews.com

On Topic | 17

this transformation requires the full support of policymakers, investors and industry players.

In the Middle East, several GCC nations are anticipating how demand for energy will shift and how we can develop future energy propositions with technology at the core.

From investment into green hydrogen in Saudi Arabia, to solar and wind generation in Oman, the UAE and Egypt, smarter energy solutions hold the key to ensuring energy security and strengthening economic resilience.

Fueling Urban Mobility & Infrastructure

Visions for future mobility vary from country to country. However, the thread that connects these visions together is the need for improved efficiency, safety, seamless user experiences, and enriched quality of life. McKinsey & Company analysis conducted globally found that integrated mobility systems could create meconstructionnews.com

benefits such as improved safety and reduced pollution, worth up to $600bn.

Whilst integrated mobility systems continue to evolve, the pace of change needs to be boosted in order to satisfy modern demands. Autonomous vehicles, electrification of vehicles, Mobility as a Services (MaaS), connectivity and the Internet of Things (IoT) show potential when applied to the urban make-up of our cities. But there are several routes that cities, governments, businesses and communities can take to embrace the opportunities which future transport provides, including digitalised infrastructure, smarter infrastructure master planning, and innovations that can pair clean technologies with human-centric transport planning.

Examples of these schemes include the European Union’s recent commitment to inject 2.2bn Euros of investment into energy-

efficient infrastructure that promotes lowcarbon mobility. Closer to home, the launch of NEOM’s The Line and the innovative infrastructure behind this vision is reimagining the ways in which we approach Net Zero 2050 by raising the stakes in zero carbon emission design and implementation.

We must also be cognisant of the fact the youth shaping the future will be instrumental in evolving the way society lives and works.

In regions with a growing youth population, this generational trend is even more apparent and their role will be critical as they become tomorrow’s leaders and decision makers.

Indeed, the future of our cities and nations is green. But to unlock the untapped economic opportunities that exist, we need to ‘build back greener’ with meaningful stakeholder collaboration at the core of any innovation. After all, there is no ‘Plan-et B’.

March 2021

18 | On Topic

01 Prakash Senghani is co-founder of Saifety.ai.

01

March 2021

Prakash Senghani “What is startling about the industry’s digital transformation is how rapidly it is happening, and how urgently companies require the right skills and knowledge if they are to successfully manage their transition” With the construction sector facing a major skills shortage and undergoing a rapid digital transformation, the time is right to create a more inclusive industry.

According to a Forbes study, diverse companies produce 19% more earnings than their counterparts, with diverse workforces not only generating greater revenue, but also contributing a wider range of benefits, including increased productivity and heightened company reputation.

However, when it comes to the construction industry, there is still a major gap in gender equality, with recent studies showing that the construction workforce comprises of only 9.9% of women in the US, and 12.8% in the UK. Countries like Canada and Australia report similar figures, with the latter finding only 12% of an estimated one million strong workforce are women. In professional positions, this rises to 14%, but falls dramatically in the trades to less than 2%.

These figures represent a challenge to the industry, given that globally, it is facing

a shortage of skilled labour. Therefore, it is imperative that the construction sector wake up to the fact that the labour shortage challenge is not going to be solved unless it becomes more inclusive and diversified.

A similar pattern can also be seen in the technology industry, where women software hires have increased by only 2% over the last 20 years. In fact, women currently remain highly underrepresented in software engineering, making up just 14% of the overall workforce, and computer science-related jobs, where they account for just 25% of the workforce.

However, paradoxically, while these two industries may not offer many opportunities to women on their own, when brought together, they create opportunities that previously may not have existed.

Window of Opportunity

As we all know, the construction sector is moving towards a digital future, hastened by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. What is startling about the industry’s digital meconstructionnews.com

On Topic | 19

transformation is how rapidly it is happening, and how urgently companies require the right skills and knowledge if they are to successfully manage their transition.

What this does is open a window of opportunity to women as it removes many of the traditional barriers to entry to such a ‘male dominated industry’, research by the University of Central Lancashire has found.

The historical requirement for physical strength, for example, to work in construction is now being countered by the digitalisation of the industry, where automation and robotics are increasingly performing these tasks, a paper published by the university says.

In turn, this could also dilute the existing preconceptions of construction workers – at least on site and in professional disciplines – needing to be men, with all the associated biases that come with that.

meconstructionnews.com

The emerging construction digital workspace also provides greater flexibility and adaptability for women in the built environment professions”

The emerging construction digital workspace also provides greater flexibility and adaptability for women in the built environment professions, as it offers both men and women a chance to operate in a new, location-independent, flexible environment and apply new skills and approaches as the sector evolves.

However, for companies to fully embrace the opportunities that a digitally enabled construction sector provides, this transformation needs to be met by a cultural shift as well. The sector’s traditional mindset of long hours and being seen at work needs to change, so as to allow all genders an opportunity to manage potential home-life commitments, define new career roles and reward structures, so that construction can maximise the potential of the talent pool at their disposal.

March 2021

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22 | In Practice

Championing Sustainability Jason Saundalkar talks to Saeed Al Abbar about how AESG fared in 2020 in light of the outbreak of COVID-19, the firm’s growth aspirations for 2021, and its ongoing focus on Net Zero

01 Saeed Al Abbar is CEO of AESG.

March 2021

AESG is a specialist consultancy that was founded in 2011 by Saeed Al Abbar and Scott Coombes. Since the company’s founding some 10 years ago, it has grown considerably; in 2018 it opened offices in London and Saudi Arabia and has added several services to its portfolio. It specialises in energy and sustainable development, environment and waste, fire life safety, facades, as well as building performance and acoustics consulting.

As a result of its service offering, the consultancy has racked up an impressive body of work across Asia, Europe and the Middle East, including Masdar City, The Opus, ICD Brookfield, The Louvre Abu Dhabi, EXPO 2020 Sustainability Pavilion, NEOM, the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) and others. The company has also worked with the Ministry of Housing Bahrain to draft Thermal Insulation Policy Guidelines, which serve as a technical guideline for developers, designers, contractors and vendors in the Kingdom.

In contrast to many firms in the construction industry that saw significant challenges in 2020 as a result of COVID-19, AESG says it finished the year on a positive note, recording both business and staff growth.

Discussing the company’s achievements and performance in 2020, CEO Saeed Al Abbar says, “For us, navigating through the pandemic safely, whilst ensuring the welfare of all our staff has been an achievement. Coming out of the end of year, having still recorded growth and growing the team during 2020 despite the challenges of the year is something that we are very proud of.”

“Another accomplishment, which I credit to the team, was the manner in which our staff quickly and effectively transitioned to the work from home set-up, while continuing to deliver some great projects in that period. I was impressed by how they readily adapted to change; their effective collaboration internally with team members and externally with clients to deliver projects was commendable and something I am proud of.”

Asked about how the consultancy managed to continue delivering services on its various projects when the outbreak of COVID-19 first began impacting countries in the GCC and beyond, Al Abbar explains, “With our offices in London, Dubai and Riyadh, we already had in place a global delivery model for projects through cloud-based collaboration platforms.

This actually enabled us to smoothly transition meconstructionnews.com

01

meconstructionnews.com

March 2021

24 | In Practice

our pipeline in that market. With the PIF’s ambitious goals to drive the Vision 2030 agenda, these projects are perfectly suited to our core strengths of delivering high performance engineering complexity and ground-breaking environmental and sustainability aspirations.”

He continues, “In the UK we’ve been very successful in providing clients with our service offerings, particularly for fire engineering and façade engineering, as well as being in the forefront of net zero developments, which are gaining a lot of traction in that market.”

Commenting on the UAE market, he says, “We continue to do well and are picking up quite a lot of work across the sector - whether that covers projects under construction or new design projects. We are busy with work on several thematic and country pavilions at EXPO 2020, as well as with major UAE developers who we have been working with closely over the past decade.”

02

Going East in 2021

03

02 The firm’s scope of work on the Opportunity Pavilion at EXPO 2020 Dubai includes sustainability, fire and life safety and waste.

03 AESG provided sustainability certification and management through design and construction, as well as other services on the EXPO 2020 UAE Pavilion.

04 The Sustainability Pavilion is one of three thematic pavilions at EXPO 2020 Dubai. It will produce 4GWh of electricity a year through solar panels, targeting net zero energy status.

March 2021

to a work from home arrangement during the initial outbreak of the pandemic.”

Commenting on the state of the market and projects in three of AESG’s focus markets, Al Abbar points out, “Through 2020 we actually recorded our highest level of new project awards to date, which is testament to the great work of our teams in delivering exceptional projects. In our major markets of the UK, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, we have seen solid growth in each of these regions.”

“In the KSA market we are currently working across all of the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) giga-projects, which is driving

Shifting gears to 2021 and speaking about the company’s plans for the year, Al Abbar says business and staff expansion is on the table across all the firm’s markets. In addition, he states that the firm will be opening new offices in the East very soon.

“We’ve recently signed off our business plan and budget for 2021, which accounts for significant growth for us across all of our markets and increasing headcount by over 60%.

If you look at markets geographically, we’ve got very large growth aspirations for the UK and the Europe market through our headquarters in London.”

He elaborates, “This year we will also be expanding into Asia through the establishment of an office in Singapore, which we are very close to opening during this quarter. So, we are definitely looking at AESG’s expansion to the East as well. We will continue building on our market share in the Middle East particularly within the UAE and the Saudi Arabia, where we continue to experience great success.”

In line with its growth aspirations, the firm appointed a number of global leaders earlier in the year and said they will be tasked with driving the growth of their service lines and ensuring that best practices are implemented meconstructionnews.com

In Practice | 25

across regions. Two of the firm’s existing global directors were promoted as part of this move; Phillipa Grant and Nivine Issa were made Global director of Sustainability and Global director of Environment respectively, and took up equity partnership in the firm. AESG says that the move demonstrates Grant and Issa’s long-term commitment to the firm and highlight’s the company’s leadership in gender equality in the construction industry.

Apart from elevating Grant and Issa, the company also appointed Peter Downer to the role of Global director of Fire and Life Safety.

Downer has considerable experience working on projects across the Middle East, Asia, and Australia; prior to joining AESG, he served as

If you look at markets geographically, we’ve got very large growth aspirations for the UK and the Europe market through our headquarters in London”

senior vice president at Jensen Hughes, where he led the Asia region which includes offices in China, Malaysia, Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong and Macau.

Earlier this year, AESG announced that it had acquired Springboard Middle East and simultaneously launched a new digital commissioning, handover and asset management platform known as Data+.

Explaining the challenges that the industry faces and that this new platform can help address, the firm said that as per the seminal ‘Building a Safer Future – Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety’ report, insufficient or inaccurate data can significantly impact the performance, efficiency, and

04

meconstructionnews.com

March 2021

26 | In Practice

safety of buildings. In addition, AESG said that while the construction industry has gradually moved away from traditional paperbased documentation to digital alternatives, issues around the accuracy, accessibility, and updatability of building data continue to linger due to the static nature of PDFs, spreadsheets, and documents typically used in the process.

Through the platform, which it billed as one of the first comprehensive digital handover solutions in the Middle East, AESG said it hopes to introduce new practices for the industry, while strengthening the value proposition of its existing services.

Discussing the platform and other technology the firm is investing in going forward, Al Abbar remarks, “One of the key areas that we are looking to lead in is that of digital excellence in engineering. We started the year with our acquisition of Springboard Middle East and the launch of AESG’s Data+ platform, which drives our capabilities and

offering in data management in the built environment. We also continue to invest in parametric and algorithm driven design, which is crucial to our plans of delivering high performance, complex engineering.”

Al Abbar notes that AESG is also continuing to advance the net zero agenda and the push for high performance developments.

He notes, “We continue to actively offer our clients our Pathway to Net Zero scheme where we aim to promote and advocate net zero carbon on all of our construction projects.

This too forms a key goal for us this year.”

Business Expectations

As far as AESG’s expectations of its key focus markets in 2021, Al Abbar is positive despite the ongoing pressure that the pandemic is still exerting on economies.

“We are seeing a lot of growth in Saudi Arabia, in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals and plans, with some hugely exciting and

04 Working on the King Abdullah Financial District, the firm provided commissioning validation, condition and dilapidation surveys, fire and life safety assessments, façade reviews and recommendations, BMU commissioning consultancy and acoustic assessments.

ambitious schemes there. We are fortunate to be working across on all of those giga- projects at the moment, which is very exciting. So that will continue to be a big trend in the Saudi market going forward.”

“In the UAE we are going to see continued growth in development projects, probably more on completion of existing schemes, whether that’s a master plan that’s partially built out and there are some plots of high value which offer a huge amount of work. So, we are definitely going to see continued growth in this market as well. In other parts of the GCC, we have got projects in Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait at the

04

March 2021

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28 | In Practice

moment and we will continue to see progress there as well. But definitely for us the UAE and Saudi Arabia will continue to be our key GCC markets in 2021.”

Asked to outline some of the challenges he anticipates this year, as COVID-19 continues to disrupt local and global markets, Al Abbar explains, “I think if you talk to anyone in a leadership position across all sectors at the moment, the key challenge to recognise is ‘uncertainty’. Across sectors and regions, the volatility index is higher than it is has ever been. So, that level of uncertainty is there whether it’s going to be uncertainty in regulations, uncertainty in ease of movement of people between borders, as well as economic uncertainty following the pandemic and the consequent rise in sovereign and corporate debts.”

“I would say that all leaders of construction and engineering firms would need to be mindful of this uncertainty in 2021, and ensure that they have robust strategies in place to diversify and manage this risk. This is something we have definitely focused on at AESG and feel we are very well prepared to tackle the year ahead and achieve our growth aspirations.”

Sustainable Focus

Sustainability is one of AESG’s key focuses and it is also a topic that Al Abbar is passionate about. Over the years he has authored several papers on the application of sustainable practices in the UAE and the MENA region, has presented on the topic at local and international conferences, served as chairman of the Emirates Green Building Council (EmiratesGBC) for six years, and joined the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC) Board of Directors in 2015.

Talking about the region’s approach to sustainability in light of the outbreak of COVID-19, Al Abbar reckons that asset owners/ developers and the construction industry have made some strides in the right direction.

“I would say that following the pandemic we have seen an overwhelming response from governments, as well as major corporate clients to fast-track sustainability goals, particularly around climate change. The pandemic has certainly highlighted the risks of global events March 2021

We continue to actively offer our clients our Pathway to Net Zero scheme where we aim to promote and advocate Net Zero carbon on all of our projects.

This too forms a key goal for us this year”

and I feel that it has focused minds on tackling climate change,” he comments.

Here he reemphasizes AESG’s focus on net zero and states that the built environment has to evolve. “Certainly, for our industry, the focus should be on moving engineering and construction practices towards net zero but also, at the same time, looking at the biodiversity risk. The pandemic has

highlighted the need to live in harmony with nature, and that’s something we have seen with a lot of projects we are working on at the moment. It is really looking at the biodiversity protection intent.”

The WorldGBC defines net zero carbon buildings as buildings that are highly efficient and are fully powered from on-site and/or off-site renewable energy sources. The firm launched its own Pathway to Net Zero tool in December 2019, and said that the tool will be applied free of cost to all of the company’s design projects from 2020 onwards. Through this tool, the firm said it hoped to address most misunderstandings around the concept, whilst simultaneously incentivising its clients.

Al Abbar concluded, “The big focus for our sustainability division will be to further advance the net zero agenda in the region. We see a big responsibility that we have, which is why we have made available our Pathway to Net Zero to all our clients. We have developed this pathway to offer clients whether they have aspirations for net zero or not. By offering a design solution that achieves net zero carbon, this ignites a dialogue where we can discuss the implications of achieving net zero carbon.

This, I feel is one of the most effective impacts we can make as consultants in transitioning the industry to net zero.” meconstructionnews.com

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Threat & Risk Assessment Gap Analysis Security System Design IT/AV Design Master Planning & Development Operational Requirements

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Testing & Commissioning Control Room Design System Integration Policies & Procedures Site Surveys & Audits Crisis Management

30 | In Practice

DESIGNING A SAFER

FUTURE

Industry experts share their views and recommendations to address the immediate and potential long-term impact of COVID-19 on the food and beverage industry March 2021

meconstructionnews.com

In Practice | 31

Since Q1 of 2020, COVID-19 has been having an enormous impact on the regional food and beverage (F&B) industry; some investors/ operators were forced to shut down their businesses for weeks and even months in certain cases. The F&B sector has since reopened albeit with a list of necessary precautionary measures that had to be implemented, while grappling with shortand long-term challenges, to safeguard diners’ health and safety.

According to Deloitte’s 2020 report on Understanding the sector impact of COVID-19 – Consumer Products: Food & Beverage, F&B entities are facing significantly reduced consumption as well as disrupted supply chains.

At-home consumption has increased, but outof-home consumption – which historically generates the highest margin – has come to nearly a standstill. The report cautions that there may be long-term changes in customer behaviour and demand.

Colin Beaton, managing director at Limelight Dubai says that there has been a marked change in consumer thinking in 2020 regarding F&B consumption, not just in food choices but in the design of outlets as well.

“Consumers are more inclined to visit establishments that have their seating areas generously spaced out. Although this may be a short-term solution, it will have long-term implications on F&B establishments including space requirements, though it may not be drastic. However, it will remain important to ensure there is enough room for patrons to move around and be seated without the chance of accidental contact,” he says.

Pierre Engelbrecht, senior project manager at CSQ brings up another change he’s witnessed in consumer thinking. “Customers now prefer to know how a restaurant’s staff is protecting them from potential harmful airborne pathogens, especially when it comes to food preparation and client interaction.”

Agreeing with Beaton, he notes, “Space constraints are directly linked to social distancing, and it’s important that customers feel comfortable and safe in the available space.

It’s evident that social distancing will continue to be observed in F&B outlets, which reduces seating capacity, in turn, impacting turnover.” meconstructionnews.com

01 01 Colin Beaton is managing director at Limelight Dubai.

There will be an emphasis on existing and newly engineered materials. The research will ramp up, and we can expect new materials to be introduced continually.

I believe material specifications will also have an increased focus on the hygiene ratings of materials being used in F&B establishments going forward”

Engelbrecht also notes that outlets can increase the available space or redesign floor layouts to accommodate more safe seating at peak times.

Concurring with Deloitte’s report, Koen Theunis, founder and partner at RBNH Solutions points out that people don’t spend as much as they used to in restaurants and the frequency of going out has dropped, whilst food delivery and home-cooked meals have taken precedence.

He elaborates, “The operational restrictions in F&B businesses, such as the ones discussed, don’t just affect the financial performance of restaurants and bars but also heavily impact the guest experience and the overall ambience.

However, there is not much F&B owners and operators can do at the moment to get back to pre-pandemic business levels.”

Theunis says that restaurants will need to adapt to new revenue levels, while looking at their expenses in order to safeguard their profits.

Likewise, Beaton states that F&B businesses will have to be better prepared and become more thoughtful regarding the design process.

Explaining his response, he states, “This includes the careful selection of materials with a focus on anti-microbial surfaces that are more conducive for a hygienic environment and better circulation spaces, among other elements. More importantly, over the long term, F&B establishments will have to pay closer attention to the entry and exit points, as well as the implementation of handwash stations and other personal sanitisation facilities. I believe there will be a strong emphasis on this aspect going forward to address the challenges of future pandemics.”

Here, Theunis outlines the importance of an F&B consultant and the importance of their experience, as well as their exposure to new ideas, standards and practices in the industry.

He explains, “An F&B consultant should ideally be involved from the start of a project, especially when it comes to kitchen design, to advise on guest flow, staff flow, functionality, and to ensure that kitchens are not over or under-specified and are compliant with local HACCP regulation. This will certainly avoid wrong decisions being made, which will definitely lead to substantial investments later on or worse, losses.”

March 2021

32 | In Practice

Both Beaton and Engelbrecht reaffirm this. Engelbrecht adds that project managers can also provide significant advantages while leading the design and construction phases by ensuring that the right people are involved.

He elaborates, “Cost managers can also provide insight into proposed upgrades and negotiate the construction costs for such items.

Both these services will ensure that clients, developers, and operators receive the best possible price in accordance with quality and the execution timeframe.”

Usability or Quality?

When asked about the sector’s back-to-business requirements, Engelbrecht says that new design implementations do not have to be more expensive, especially if addressed early in the design process. In contrast, he says that there are many different theories on how COVID-19 will affect the materials used in the F&B industry.

“Although some materials might have certain specification changes or upgrades, these might not be a viable option due to the potential cost impact. Looking at past

02

02 Pierre Engelbrecht is senior project manager at CSQ. 03 The outbreak of COVID-19 has made social distancing and frequent sanitising of surfaces a reality in F&B outlets across the region.

pandemics, like the Spanish Flu, it’s clear that material choices did not change due to the virus. It changed due to a higher demand for more sustainable materials with increased usability or improved quality,” he points out.

Theunis echoes Engelbrecht sentiment on cost being a factor here. “Anti-microbial surfaces have been around for some time, but the cost has always been an obstacle. However, I do expect to see an increase in the use of these materials, since safety is increasingly playing a role in convincing clients to switch.”

“Hopefully, the use of anti-microbial surfaces will become the code soon, especially back of the house. Any non-porous and nonabsorbent surface will help in keeping working surfaces or public guest surfaces clean and safe through simple sanitation. From a fit-out point of view, the use of anti-microbial and non-absorbent surfaces should be seriously considered, not just to tackle viruses but bacteria as well.”

“From a design perspective, more attention should be paid to MEP by installing hygienic air handling units, and fixing them

03 02

March 2021

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Office Location: Millennium Plaza Tower 14th Floor, Sheik Sayed Road P.O.Box 26290, Dubai, UAE www.intertek.com

34 | In Practice

with UV filters that kill viruses as a standard requirement. From an interior design and architectural perspective, more time should be spent considering restaurant layouts, and the zoning and division of various areas for HACCP purposes should become a must.”

“It’s important there is enough space in locker rooms, and to have separate sanitation and de-boxing areas, as well as sufficient workspace, so employees can work safely with adequate social distancing,” Theunis adds.

Engelbrecht points out that F&B businesses will have to comply with the minimum requirements set out by the regulating authorities, and that this is a cost factor that needs to be included in the initial build costs. Developers will also need to ensure they account for the build cost of additional sanitisation components, and cannot rely on previous or past build cost data, he says, adding that investors, on the other hand, will need to seriously consider the cost for potential upgrades to a facility.

He justifies, “Current and future businesses will have to adhere to stricter regulations with improved safety measures. Evolving and new technologies will alert building management of potential health-orientated risks before people enter facilities. Higher air circulation rates, ventilation and air purification requirements will demand higher rates of air changes for any space where people formally or socially congregate. Higher quality mechanical and electrical equipment that sanitises facilities, equipment, and shared items, will be a major psychological comfort factor to attract more customers who know that the facility they are visiting is ‘certified’ or ‘compliant’ with new health standards.”

To this, Beaton reasserts, “Investors and developers should be ready to invest in the front end of the design phase for long term success.

Careful choices concerning material selection, space planning and MEP considerations should also be made.”

Meanwhile, Theunis advises to re-negotiate all service contracts and leases, limit CAPEX to health and safety-related items, invest in HACCP implementation and introduce a per diem hygiene charge on every guest check, as pragmatic long-term solutions.

March 2021

Prepping for the Future

04 04 Koen Theunis, founder and partner at RBNH Solutions.

An F&B consultant should ideally be involved from the start, especially when it comes to kitchen design, to advise on guest flow, staff flow, functionality, and to ensure that kitchens are not over or underspecified and are compliant with local HACCP regulation.

This will avoid wrong decisions being made, which will lead to substantial investments later or worse, losses”

Over the past few months, the industry experts in this feature and their teams have come together as a collective of F&B consultants in the UAE, and published a whitepaper titled: ‘Designing a Safer Future - How the Food & Beverage industry can be better prepared for another pandemic’.

Asked about how the crisis will change the landscape, Beaton was quick to note that many technology companies have come up with new software, which can actually help F&B businesses address challenges relating to the pandemic.

“This includes advanced software that can audit, analyse, monitor and report hygiene data, as well as cashless payment systems including RFID technology, mobile payment gateways and contactless credit cards to avoid the use of cash which can potentially contain and spread viruses.”

He adds, “There will be an emphasis on existing and newly engineered materials. The research will ramp up, and we can expect new materials to be introduced continually. I believe material specifications will also have an increased focus on the hygiene ratings going forward.”

Theunis states that many of these technologies are already available in the market; however, COVID-19 accelerated their adoption. “QR codes and digital menus are now perfectly acceptable in most restaurants, and there is no reason why its use should be discontinued post-COVID-19, as long as the technology is supported by good communication. In fact, the use of QR codes and cashless payment systems can help speed up operations.”

Beaton summarises that the rate of change has increased dramatically as a result of COVID-19, and the sector will need to evolve quickly and effectively to ensure its long-term growth and sustainability.

He concludes, “We need to be able to respond to the global shift in the needs, wants and requirements of communal dining spaces, as well as develop and implement new standards and ways of working that can form the basis of a new paradigm on ensuring the health and safety of its users.” meconstructionnews.com

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36 | On Site

March 2021

meconstructionnews.com

On Site | 37

Luisa Coelho “It’s our responsibility to empower each other, make space for those who are not being listened to and deserve a voice”

Following our special edition dedicated to women in the construction industry, Middle East Consultant continues to share the inspiration and experiences of women working in the male-dominated industry across the GCC. Here, we catch up with Luisa Coelho, associate at Gensler.

What drove you to get into construction and your first role in the industry?

Being exposed to the creative world since I was very young has played a definitive role in setting me on my course to become an architect.

As early as my very first years at school, I’d found myself intrigued by the design world. Later, I preferred to draw rather than write Portuguese, English or French Essays - I would rather draw the story than put it into words. By that time, I 100% believed I would become a plastic artist. It was not until I decided to enroll in the Arts High School and fell in love with geometry that I could see myself doing something else.

Geometry opened my eyes to a balance between the abstract and the accuracy of things, a perfect balance between art and meconstructionnews.com

science. Very rapidly after that I found in architecture the perfect representation of this balance, and that was the moment I decided to study to become one.

I am very lucky to be Portuguese and had the opportunity to study in one of the best European Architectural Schools, where most of my mentors were Pritzker Prize Winners.

The ‘Escola do Porto’ or School of Porto played host to architects such as Souto de Moura and Siza Viera, both of whom have played a huge role in my profile as an architect, and I still refer back to them while I design and manage architectural projects today.

Share a brief about your career, mentioning key achievements with regards to your role.

In the last year of my Master’s Degree in Architecture, I enrolled in an internship at one of the most yet-to-be-talked-about offices in Portugal, because I truly believed in their design philosophy. It was an unpaid job and that was the reality for most of the fresh graduates in Portugal at that time but I was convinced that the investment would pay off later. This proved true by the time I moved March 2021

38 | On Site

to Barcelona, in 2013, to work with one of the most prestigious Spanish Architectural Firms – B720. However, the crisis had hit Spain as well, and my professional growth was not unfolding as quickly as I had expected. This was the moment I decided to move to the Middle East.

There were amazing opportunities in construction available at the time and still today with all the ambitious projects.

As architects here, we all get to fulfill our ambitions in growing our professional experience with fast paced, large-scale projects, that throw you right out of your comfort zone.

The first year was tough, I was not identifying with the first two firms I had the chance to work with when I arrived, but the moment Gensler gave me the chance to work with the largest design firm in the world, my true professional life in the region began.

Being at Gensler for six years now is key for the role I play in the construction industry.

I’ve grown from a junior architect to a design manager under the mentorship of some of the most talented design professionals from around the world – this has been a key factor in my becoming who I am today in this industry.

say that my work colleagues care to empower me and that makes a difference in front of those who don’t – they get the message, and the next meeting plays out differently.

I would say that is one key thing you can find in Gensler’s culture – recognition of female leadership, and that is obviously influenced by our Co-CEOs leadership model – Diane Hoskins and Andy Cohen: not just one woman, not just one man, but both, leading together, empowering each other.

That should be normal in this world.

What are some of the barriers to women entering the construction industry?

What was your personal experience?

I wouldn’t call them barriers; I would call it a little push that make you grow as a leader in the industry. By this little push, I mean that any barriers that women might find in dealing with the construction industry, which is male dominated, should actually be taken as an opportunity.

I’ve never experienced sexism myself, I just feel sometimes that my voice is less heard, so I just talk a little louder. It takes only you to believe in your power as a female leader. To add to this, being a man or a woman is irrelevant if you contribute great value to the industry.

I would say that in my day-to-day consists of meeting rooms where 80% of the time I am the only woman – but I am lucky to say that my work colleagues care to empower me and that makes a difference in front of those who don’t – they get the message, and the next meeting plays out differently”

Besides fairness and being the right thing to do, diversity in the

The GCC construction sector is still

construction industry is important

male dominated, however diversity is

because of the value women can bring

beginning to increase. If you agree with

to employers, clients and customers.

this statement, comment on what is

How have you made your mark in

driving this and how you see the GCC

the industry working on projects?

markets changing in the coming years? If

I’m not sure I have a ‘proudest moment’ at this point in life. Regarding my mark on the industry as a woman – I am definitely working towards that, but being an architect in their 30s is to be a young architect, so I will most probably be ready to tell you a real and impactful story in ten years’ time.

Women bring just as much value as men bring into the construction industry, and the more we see women in leadership positions, the easier it will make it for everyone to find it normal. I would say that in my day-to-day consists of meeting rooms where 80% of the time I am the only woman – but I am lucky to

you do not agree with the above, please

March 2021

share your thoughts/views of the market.

Yes, the construction sector in the GCC is male dominated, however there is definitely space for diversity and in the end, it’s all about doing a great job that brings value to any team. That is what makes a difference.

training and mentorship programs for the more senior members of their boards.

Mentoring should happen not only by older generations mentoring younger generations, but the opposite as well. Boards across all firms need to start making space for younger generations to be part of it, and listen to them, it is so important as they are the future.

Besides authorities and construction firms, who else can play a part in increasing diversity and balancing pay scales?

Everyone has a part to play in diversity and equal pay. What would you like to see government authorities and construction firms do to increase diversity and make pay a level playing field?

All firms, public or private, should invest in

Every single one of us as employees and colleagues in these firms. It’s our responsibility to empower each other, make space for those who are not being listened to and deserve a voice! Start with those closest to you and it will spread, until it just becomes normal. meconstructionnews.com

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promote diversity and equality and the leadership model I mentioned previously is a true reflection of that. Growing at Gensler only depends on your dedication and talent – if you have those, then there is no ceiling for you.

How does Gensler approach diversity in the workplace? What more can your firm do to increase diversity?

We have several research pieces being undertaken at the moment. They focus on diversity and equality in the workplace and not just gender diversity. Based on the research pieces we develop; we actually study how the buildings we design can support equality in the workplace. Gensler understands that while statements are important, it’s our action that will create a lasting change.

Gensler is committed to taking action that supports equality in its offices and creates opportunities for the both equally. While no single action will solve every problem, Gensler has a robust strategy with a focus on impacting people’s lives, leaving space to fight other diversity issues such as racism.

How do you personally push for diversity and equal pay in the construction sector? Are you involved in any groups/councils etc. that focus on increasing diversity and equal pay?

As a woman in the industry, what has your experience been working in

is one more reason why the scenario is the same as other societies.

the GCC construction sector? If you have worked in markets outside the

In doing your job, what sort of

GCC, how does your experience here

discrimination (if any) have you faced

compare with what you’ve experienced

and how did Gensler address it?

and observed in other markets?

I’m lucky enough to not have faced anything bigger than being in a meeting of 30 people and while being the only woman in the room, the presenter addressing everyone as ‘gentlemen’. However, this is so insignificant when we compare it with women not being paid the same as men with the same qualifications, or not having the same career growth opportunities. This is where the major problem sits.

I think the scenario is very similar in Europe or the US these days. A few years ago, it was not the same, as countries like Saudi Arabia were still very strict, but these days I travel to KSA alone without any issue, for instance.

The regional industry is mostly supported by international firms and the offices here follow the same guiding principles as the offices in other countries, so the same scenario applies. It is no longer a matter of regionality, as a matter of mindset, and this region, as we all know very well, is made up of people from multiple countries and that meconstructionnews.com

Do you feel there’s a limit with regards to how far you can progress within Gensler?

No, Gensler has several initiatives that

I’m not directly involved in any groups or councils that focus on the topic, but I stay abreast on the matter with industry publications and events that provide us with such amazing insight into this topic. It is very important to stay connected and discuss the topic amongst the people in our industry, I do this by attending conferences or roundtables.

Sharing your voice is the most powerful tool we all have, so thank you Middle East Consultant for giving us another platform to express our thoughts on this important subject!

What advice would you give to a woman entering the GCC construction industry today?

I would say: Don’t force yourself into anything, try to maneuver your way in using the natural course of true leadership – it might take longer, but it will likely last forever.

March 2021

40 | On Site

01 Mike Pettinella is EMEA director at Autodesk Construction Solutions.

01

Mike Pettinella “Whether you’re an employer or a candidate, 2021 is the year to embrace apprenticeships” before COVID-19, it was estimated that we needed to attract 400,000 new recruits each year to meet infrastructure needs. The end of the free movement of people from the EU has further limited access to skilled talent, which is especially important in areas like London.

Today one in three current construction employees are over 50, and as a result there is predicted to be a 20-25% decline in the available workforce over the next decade.

Every firm is likely to run into challenges finding workers. That means it’s incredibly important that we attract new talent to the industry, and particularly younger candidates, to fill these gaps.

The Power of Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships aren’t a new idea in the construction industry. In fact, the concept dates back to the Middle Ages. Fast forward to 2021 and in light of recent global events and trends, apprenticeships are now arguably more important than ever.

Here’s why apprenticeships are a win-win for construction in 2021: Tackling the talent shortage

The construction industry has long been facing a talent shortage. In the UK, even March 2021

Apprenticeships benefit everyone. For candidates, it’s an opportunity to learn valuable skills, without incurring immense student debts. For employers, it’s a chance to train up employees in the competencies that are really needed - combining technical knowledge with collaboration and team work, which are equally important as you enter a new industry. And if you’re a larger company and already required to pay the apprenticeship levy, it makes sense to ensure you’re benefitting from the scheme too.

More importantly, apprenticeships can also open opportunities up to groups underrepresented in construction, including women, people from BAME backgrounds and many more. This enables businesses to benefit from the broadest range of talent out there, filling vacancies and creating more diverse and stronger teams.

Driving Digital Construction

Apprenticeships are also an important way of meeting the new needs of the industry – by strengthening digital skills. The past year has proven beyond question the importance of digital tools for keeping projects operational and increasing productivity.

Offering apprenticeships is one way of bringing younger digitally native people into the industry. These employees are often excited to use technology in the workplace and can actually help with the adoption of new tools from connected procurement to digital on site information-sharing.

Apprenticeships can also enable candidates to gain advanced skills, such as using Building Information Modeling (BIM). At Autodesk, we’ve worked with the National College for Advanced Transport and Infrastructure for several years, providing access to BIM 360 for staff and students – including many apprentices.

On the whole, apprenticeships are an excellent way to attract the exciting talent that the construction industry needs – whether it’s the next generation of employees or people who are simply new to the sector. We’ll need this talent if the construction industry is to play its role in helping countries and economies recover from the pandemic.

Through apprenticeships, we can help to increase digital skills across the construction workforce, so that we’re ready to take advantage of the latest technology and create safer, more productive and more profitable firms. So, whether you’re an employer or a candidate, 2021 is the year to embrace apprenticeships. meconstructionnews.com

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