DEI or Die? Building Sites & Boardrooms l In The Spotlight with John Wilkinson

You Must Be Woking

In this episode of You Must Be Woking – In the Spotlight, Dawn and Craig sit down with John Wilkinson, Chief Operating Officer of BAM UK & Ireland, to explore the future of the construction industry through the lens of diversity, inclusion, culture, and sustainability.

With the sector facing a shortfall of a quarter of a million workers in the next five years, John shares why embracing diversity isn’t optional - it’s essential. From his personal journey starting out as a trainee engineer to leading one of the biggest players in construction, John reflects on how the industry has transformed from an “alpha male” environment to one that’s gradually opening its doors to people of all genders, backgrounds, and experiences.

Key themes from the conversation:

• John’s career journey and leadership lessons.
• How diversity and inclusion are vital to addressing the skills shortage.
• The role of culture in driving change at BAM and across the sector.
• Attracting the next generation of talent—starting as early as primary schools.
• Technology, AI, and innovation reshaping construction work.
• Why sustainability - environmental, economic, and human - is central to the industry’s future.
• John’s personal legacy and his vision to “leave the jersey in a better place.”

Whether you’re in construction or simply curious about how industries can evolve to be more inclusive and sustainable, this episode offers practical insights and inspiring perspectives on building a future-ready workforce.