Alex Lubbock has joined BSI as global construction practice director. He was previously MD of BIMobject and was seconded to the Infrastructure and Projects Authority. Here he talks to BIM+ about his new role.
Tell us about the new role and what it involves.
The Construction Practice is a long-established part of BSI’s assurance capability.
Day to day we create market access for manufacturers of construction products and materials. This has never been more relevant now we are moving forward as a UK outside of the European Union. From the 1 January 2022, products will need to carry the UKCA mark to be sold in the UK, and BSI continues to be the most recognised notified body able to support manufacturers to certify for UKCA; we will also continue with CE and other marking through our global operations. We do this by testing and certifying their physical products. How people will probably know us best is for the BSI brand and kitemark: it’s everywhere! Part of the role is to make that brand as relevant in global markets as it is in places like the UK.
What attracted you to the role?
I have been fortunate in my career to work for some wonderful brands and BSI is right up there. I also recognise the key role it plays and could play in delivering real sustainable change in the built environment. Everyone has their part to play, but BSI’s ambition globally and its Royal Charter keep it laser-focused on delivering value in line with the UN sustainability goals.
Will your time with the IPA help with the new role?
My time within UK government will help because the public sector in every market is a key stakeholder to market access through trading relationships and it also sets the trajectory through policy. For example, material and product selection are a key to the future of addressing Net Zero Carbon, and in my new role, we will be exploring how we introduce testing and certification to give people confidence to buy new products and materials that inspire trust and deliver a real change to our environment.
Are there fresh developments at BSI that the industry can look forward to in the coming years as a result of your appointment?
Susan Taylor-Martin arrived as CEO in January. Technology and global reach will play a key role in our future. The construction practice will be no different. I will be leaning on my team and my network so we can re-shape what we do to make it scalable and resilient for the future. I am also looking forward to working with colleagues on how we help to create new markets for advanced materials and the circular economy.
What will success look like for you?
In a post-Brexit economy where we will be looking for UK businesses to grow and thrive in a global market, helping BSI deliver on that is a part of why I am here. However, where I feel we can have a real impact is creating choice and differentiation for consumers of products and materials based on value. The BSI Kitemark is a trusted brand that helps manufacturers differentiate on quality. Success for me is growing that portfolio of trust in products based on not just quality but other values.
How do you look back on your time at BIMobject?
BIM Object is a fantastic brand and company and I wish CEO Carl Silbersky and the team well in delivering on their mission. They gave me an opportunity to develop in a number of ways and I will look back on my time with the business fondly.
