This episode we welcome Paul Sheffield, President of the Institution of Civil Engineers. Paul has a vast wealth of experience in the Construction Industry both in the U.K. and abroad, having worked for Kier Group for 31 years (being CEO from 2010-2014) before moving to Laing O’Rourke to head its U.K. and Middle East and Construction business. In addition to Paul’s current role as President of the ICE, he is non-executive Director of Southern Water Services, is on the supervisory board of BAM and an industrial advisor to the board of Manchester Airport Group.

We discuss Paul’s own experience of mental health in the construction industry over the years; how it has changed and what more we can do, as well as ensuring people have access to mental health training and what makes training effective. We confront boom and bust over the years and the impact that economic downturns and uncertainty can have on our mental health particularly in the situation we currently find ourselves in.

Paul provides an honest, thoughtful and inspiring perspective on balancing home and work life, working abroad and long commutes, the resulting impact of a recession on businesses and their people and the power of team work and a support network to show kindness and help motivate.

We are sure that our listeners will find this episode very interesting. If you are interested in joining the conversation, please follow the Institution of Civil Engineers on social media.