Julia Barrett is the board director responsible for sustainability and compliance at Willmott Dixon; a £1bn privately-owned contracting and interior fit-out group. Willmott Dixon has been carbon neutral in its own operations since 2012 and is aiming to be zero-carbon without offsetting by 2030. Its sustainability strategy Now or Never. Our decisive decade sets out sector-leading targets to 2030 for its products and services, and well as inspirational ambitions for social value. Julia is passionate about sustainability, diversity, skills and inspiring and leading change across the built environment sector. She chairs the company’s Diversity Steering Group and is a board member of both the Aldersgate Group and Supply Chain Sustainability School. Julia is a Chartered Engineer, Chartered Environmentalist and Fellow of the Institution of Chemical Engineers.

Statement:

"We have long had a skills shortage in construction. To close this gap we must attract the best people of all genders to seek a fulfilling career in our sector. Increased diversity leads to better decision making whether on a project or around the board table, which will be key to the future success of our industry."