Name: Louis Warden
Job title: Head of technical, Greencore Homes
What I do: In my role at Greencore Homes, I lead the design and technical teams to assist with the delivery of our pioneering sustainable homes. More generally, this means that I take responsibility for the timely delivery of detailed design solutions for the manufacturing and construction teams, while also ensuring compliance with regulations and our business’ KPIs.
Why I got into the property industry: I developed an interest in design at a very young age – originally this was geared towards boat design, stemming from a project I did in primary school. However, living in the Midlands I realised that it might not be the best career path. Instead, I found architecture to be a close second area of interest and a much more realistic career option. As soon as I was set on pursuing design further, I went to college at the age of 16 to study construction. This was a general built environment course which gave me an overview of all the key roles in the industry.
My first proper job: After studying, I started out in architectural design and surveying and moved to London to work for a building surveying business. This was a great introduction to the built environment, and I was thrown into the deep end being responsible for a number of retail and public house projects from inception through to completion. Being involved through the entire lifecycle allowed me to understand all aspects, including initial surveys, planning, detailed design, client approvals and construction. I realised this was something that I was good at and enjoyed it, so that’s where it all started.
My first big break: Completing my masters degree really helped elevate my career. I was already experienced and had a good understanding of the role, but this enabled me to differentiate myself from my contemporaries. My dissertation focused on BIM, information management, sustainability and knowledge sharing as a means of enhancing project delivery – topics that have remained relevant to this day, and particularly to Greencore.
My inspiration(s): My mother was a huge influence on me. She came to the UK as a child and was for the most part alone. She joined the armed forces at 16 and had a wonderful career, culminating in being a successful business owner. She was the definition of a strong independent woman and overcame many challenges.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: I have worked on a huge number of fantastic projects, but if I had to choose one it would be from early on in my career when I was involved in the design of the fitout for the Royal Opera House. My proudest moment was being accepted into the University of Cambridge to study interdisciplinary design for the built environment.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: A big misconception is that the industry is all about the trades. Of course they are the backbone of the industry, but there is a wide variety of career paths, and the industry is more accessible than people might think in terms of the breadth of career opportunities.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: There is a lack of overall diversity – in terms of people from different backgrounds, ages and races. I believe firmly in the need for more diversity in the sector to boost innovation.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: Good teams and projects are delivered through talent, hard work, dedication and collaboration. The best teams are the most diverse ones in terms of people’s life experience, backgrounds and professional experiences. Approaching things through different lenses provides broader and more robust insight and supports innovation.
Why I’m so passionate about ESG: I believe we all have to do our part in tackling climate change and social issues in our society. The industry is a huge contributor to global waste and emissions and needs to do better. We have an opportunity to create places that are fit for future generations, and we should be striving to do the best we possibly can.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: Ideally, I’d like to be in a director position and leading my own business unit, while continuing to support Greencore Homes in its ambitions to grow the business. I’m interested in creating opportunities for people to join the industry and I’d love to continue my studies and research into wider built environment issues such as social impact, inclusion and sustainability which I could take into the workplace.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: Alexander the Great.
What I do in my downtime: I’m an avid runner, so when I’m not at work, I enjoy getting out on the trails and spending time with my children.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: Professional athlete!
My advice for someone just starting out: Take the time to become an expert in your field before thinking about next steps. Find good mentors and something you’re interested in, build your experience and be patient – the opportunities will come.
My motto/mantra: When things are getting tough, take a step back and have a look at the bigger picture. Focus your energy on what you can change, don’t stress about the things you can’t.
