Challenge: Current and potential middle managers from a Tier 1 construction company undertake a series of bespoke modules designed to improve their understanding and execution of leadership and management on construction sites. The modules are set in the context of improving the image of construction and inculcating a 21st Century approach to managing construction projects. Waves have been selected to provide long-term support to the delivery of the Transforming Construction Management programme. Support to the programme includes delivering The Five Behaviors of a Cohesive Team™ aboard yachts in the Solent, delivering Raising The Baa and providing experienced facilitators for the classroom phases.
Solution: In close liaison with the company’s Head of Leadership and Management Development and the Transforming Construction Management programme lead, Waves provides activities to complement the company’s existing programme. In combination with the company’s and Waves’ facilitators The Five Behaviors of a Cohesive Team™ and Raising The Baa are used to rapidly form and storm a disparate group of Construction Managers into a functioning team. This is further enhanced during subsequent classroom based modules where, under the construction company’s facilitators, Waves’ staff bring their considerable knowledge of coaching and mentoring to the programme’s ILM coaching award.
Results: Construction Managers are exposed to a new model and way of thinking about teams and how they might begin the process of creating a high performing team within their respective projects. Their own commitment to the central themes of the Five Behaviours are tested during Raising The Baa and during 48 hours of problem solving whilst sailing on the Solent. Both activities provide a theoretical underpinning that is supported by practical application which readily cross-pollinates into the world of construction.
‘You have opened my eyes to other views. I have had my team in today and explained how they should respect each other and think how they should respect their view and understand others’ views and opinions.’
MDP Cohort 7