In the sixth episode of the Own the Build Leadership Series, Paul is joined by Prabhat Shikotra, Strategy Lead at BAM UK & Ireland, to explore a very different path into senior leadership — and why the future of construction will belong to businesses that think long term.
Starting his career in architecture before moving into construction through digital planning and innovation, Prabhat shares how curiosity, creativity and consistently putting his hand up for difficult challenges shaped his progression into one of the UK’s largest contractors.
The conversation explores:
- why construction struggles to attract young talent despite the impact it has on society;
- the importance of working on the business, not just in the business;
- how BAM shifted from project-by-project thinking to a disciplined long-term strategy focused on margin, selectivity and client partnerships;
- why culture and communication matter more than PowerPoint strategies; and
- how technology, AI and workforce planning will shape the next decade of construction leadership.
Prabhat also reflects on the habits that separate future leaders from the rest — including visibility, consistency, curiosity and taking ownership when opportunities arise.
The episode closes on a powerful leadership message:
don’t chase titles — chase difficult challenges, build trust, and let leadership emerge organically.
A fascinating conversation for QSs, commercial professionals and future leaders looking to understand how strategic thinking, innovation and long-term relationships are reshaping construction in 2026 and beyond.
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📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:
Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success
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