Crest Nicholson says that it is not just technical and trade skills that are in short supply in the construction industry – communication skills are also lacking.
“Delivering high quality, low carbon new homes also calls for expertise and knowledge, of which the industry is short,” said chief executive Stephen Stone. “It is not just construction skills we depend on but the broader communication skills essential for bringing new development forward to planning consent.”
Mr Stone added: “To help address the skills gap across the industry we are developing our own workforce and this year have significantly increased investment in training and career development at all levels. Among several initiatives underway are programmes in management excellence, sales excellence and executive coaching.”
The company has also strengthened its graduate programme and formed strategic links with selected universities.
Crest Nicholson also reported pre-tax profit of £116.7m for the year ended 31st October 2014 on revenue of £636.3m. This compares to £80.9m pre-tax profit on £527.7m revenue for 2013. There was a 16% rise in the number of units built during the year, up from 2,172 to 2,530.
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