The Building People | A GridEdge original series

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The Building People – a GridEdge.ai original series. Where we spotlight the career journeys and hard-won lessons of the people who help keep Britain’s buildings running. Hosted by Paul McCorquodale, CEO at GridEdge.

  1. 3d ago

    EP 18 - Molly Webb (Energy Unlocked)

    SummaryMolly Webb shares her journey from tech and policy to energy innovation, exploring how digital technology can drive decarbonisation, system optimisation and energy security. The episode looks at energy as an operating system, demand flexibility, and why collaboration matters in reaching net zero goals. Keywordsenergy innovation, decarbonisation, digital technology, demand flexibility, energy system, climate policy, startups, energy markets, sustainability, collaboration Key topicsThe concept of an energy operating system and digital twinsDecarbonisation strategies using data and system optimisationDemand flexibility and its role in energy securityThe evolution of energy markets and the impact of regulationThe importance of collaboration and network building in energy innovationThe challenges and opportunities in digital energy transformationThe significance of local energy markets and social valueThe influence of policy, governance, and societal narratives Guest nameMolly Webb Sound bites"I've always felt like a liaison between worlds.""We're building a new operating system.""It's gotta be like, I see myself in this system in a different way and I wanna be part of that." Chapters00:00 Introduction to Molly Webb and her background01:43 Molly Webb's journey from Japan to energy policy04:11 Transition from tech startups to environmental policy07:41 The evolution of digital energy and hype cycles12:44 Energy Unlocked and supporting startups for climate impact18:50 The concept of a digital operating system for energy26:30 Energy security, sovereignty, and crisis as drivers for change34:34 The importance of narrative and collaboration in energy transition40:35 Future outlook and the role of innovation and governance Guest linksLinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/molly-webb-b1b4161

    EP 18 - Molly Webb (Energy Unlocked)

  2. Sep 25

    EP 17 - Stefan Schmidt (MeterZ)

    SummaryStefan Schmidt is co-founder and CEO of MeterZ, a company that gets energy data out of buildings. He talks through his route from Microsoft into smart buildings via Hoare Lea, HB Reavis and WiredScore, and explains why reliable meter data is still so hard to come by. He covers utility meters nobody can find, submeters buried on BMS networks, and how wireless and IoT hardware are cutting the cost of metering. He also explains why a shortage of skilled installers is the next big problem to solve, and where demand response and grid flexibility could go next. Keywordssmart buildings, energy data, metering, submetering, decarbonisation, IoT, wireless metering, tenant recharge, sustainability reporting, demand response Key topicsStefan's path from Microsoft to smart buildingsWhy energy data is so hard to get out of buildingsUtility meters versus in-building submetersHidden meters and inaccurate utility dataHow wireless and IoT hardware simplify meteringThe real cost of manual meter readingWho benefits from metering in a multi-let buildingThe installer skills shortageFuture trends in demand response and grid flexibility Sound bites"We really do believe that the lack of good quality energy data from buildings is one of the biggest bottlenecks to decarbonisation of real estate.""The wireless technology's been really positive for ease of deployment and also for maintenance.""Become an electrician. You'll never be out of work." Chapters00:00 Introduction to Stefan Schmidt and his background01:56 Stefan's career journey from Microsoft to smart buildings04:48 The genesis of MeterZ and its mission07:53 Challenges in utility meter deployment and data access12:07 Complexities of in-building submeters and BMS integration16:05 The evolution of wireless metering technology20:00 Common issues with manual meter reading and data accuracy23:49 Stakeholder challenges in data-driven decision making27:54 Next steps in solving industry-wide metering problems33:01 Advice for newcomers in the energy data space36:03 The importance of skills and simplifying deployment39:58 Future opportunities in demand response and grid management Guest linksStefan Schmidt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefanmaximilianschmidt/MeterZ: https://www.meterz.co.uk

    EP 17 - Stefan Schmidt (MeterZ)

  3. Aug 31

    EP 16 - Jason Roberts (Mitie)

    Summary Jason Roberts shares his journey from technical roles in refrigeration and energy to leading sustainability at Mitie. He traces how ESG practices have evolved from compliance reporting into operational change, and makes the case that influencing people matters more than any single technology. Keywords ESG, sustainability, built environment, facilities management, energy management, carbon reduction, leadership, innovation, net zero, climate change, corporate responsibility Key topics Jason's move from technical roles into ESG leadershipHow sustainability reporting and compliance have evolvedWhy influencing people is the real lever for changePractical approaches to cutting carbon footprintThe role of technology and data in sustainabilityChallenges and opportunities in the built environmentSetting ambitious targets and why they workSupply chain and procurement as sustainability leversEV fleets and green transportationBuilding a culture of continuous improvementChapters 00:00 Introduction and Jason's role at Mitie 09:37 Background and route into sustainability 12:20 How hot weather affects refrigeration and energy use 13:06 From technical roles to ESG leadership 15:39 Do reports and compliance actually drive action? 18:25 The changing landscape of air conditioning and refrigerants 21:07 Jason's current scope and sustainability initiatives 24:06 Doing what you sell: leading by example 27:37 Translating strategy into frontline action 28:45 The scope of sustainability in the built environment 33:12 Remote building monitoring and its benefits 34:23 Electric vehicles and green fleets 41:15 Making every job a sustainable job 44:02 The evolution of carbon accounting and reporting 47:13 Embedding sustainability across the business 48:36 Advice for newcomers to sustainability 56:46 Jason's proudest achievements 59:10 Final thoughts on collaboration and leadership in ESG

    EP 16 - Jason Roberts (Mitie)

  4. Aug 31

    Ep 15 - Gal Leslie (2-Work)

    SummaryGal Leslie shares her journey from sales in the flexible workspace industry to co-founding 2-Work, and explains why culture, customer focus, and adaptability are what separate a workspace that thrives from one that empties out. Keywordsflexible workspace, co-working, property management, customer experience, workspace culture, landlord partnerships, space design, business growth Key topics Gal's career path from sales into co-founding 2-WorkWhy culture and customer experience drive workspace successAdapting a workspace as client needs changeLandlord partnerships and bespoke deal structuresBuilding vibrant, collaborative communities inside buildingsSound bites "I love being proven wrong when I turn a building around.""Trust is the foundation of a good partnership.""Creating a community where people want to come to work."Chapters00:00 Introduction and background01:14 Early career and entry into flexible workspace10:02 The skills and passion behind a career in sales12:39 Turning around underperforming buildings17:29 Managing large portfolios and client needs23:11 How flexible workspace evolved as a product27:35 Founding 2-Work during lockdown30:05 Growth and expansion34:01 Partnership models with landlords36:19 Unique buildings and community creation43:30 Creating environment and culture in workspaces48:04 Handling challenges and client communication55:03 Advice for newcomers to the industry1:00:43 Why team and culture drive success1:03:22 Building a community-focused workspace1:05:08 Reflections on the industry and what's next

    Ep 15 - Gal Leslie (2-Work)

  5. Aug 26

    EP 14 - Mark Baker (Sodexo)

    Mark Baker shares his journey from the RAF to leading operations at Sodexo UK, with lessons in leadership, collaboration and sustainability across the built environment. Key topics - Transition from military to industry - Leadership and collaboration in facilities management - Decarbonisation of military estates - Building effective client relationships - Veterans support in facilities management Takeaways - Military discipline and problem solving are highly applicable in FM - Building relationships and collaboration are key to operational success - Decarbonisation efforts can be simple and cost effective if approached thoughtfully - Understanding the environment and culture is crucial for effective service delivery - Veterans bring valuable skills to the facilities management industry Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mark Baker and his career journey 03:00 Transition from RAF to facilities management 09:06 Leadership lessons from military service 13:53 The importance of relationships and collaboration 19:56 Decarbonisation in military estates 25:53 Cultural change and continuous improvement 34:52 Day-to-day operations at Sodexo UK 45:00 Supporting veterans and leadership development 54:14 Final thoughts and advice for listeners

    EP 14 - Mark Baker (Sodexo)

  6. Jul 15

    EP13 - Frankie Spencer (Leeds Trinity University)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this episode, Frankie shares her unconventional journey into estates and facilities management, highlighting the importance of adaptability, people skills, and future-proofing in the evolving landscape of university infrastructure. Discover practical insights on managing complex projects, engaging stakeholders, and preparing for environmental challenges. keywords estates management, facilities, project management, future-proofing, university infrastructure, environmental challenges, people skills, adaptability key topics Frankie’s non-traditional career path and international experience The importance of people skills and stakeholder engagement Future-proofing buildings against climate change and environmental risks The value of involving end-users in design and decision-making Managing complex projects with a holistic view of estate operations guest name Frankie Spencer sound bites "Let’s learn to adapt, not just survive" "Designing for functionality and future needs" "Involving end-users saves time and money" Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Frankie’s background 00:00 Starting the conversation and weather adaptation 00:00 Frankie’s career journey and unconventional path 01:07 Transition from project management to estates and facilities 03:36 The importance of involving end-users in design 06:03 Learning from building and operational experiences 11:49 Design decisions and future-proofing buildings 14:27 Involving academics and stakeholders in design 20:24 Adapting to environmental changes and climate challenges 26:47 Managing heat and weather impacts on campus 31:13 Advice for early-career professionals in estates 34:23 The importance of people skills and stakeholder communication 36:56 Closing remarks and Frankie’s parting thoughts resources Building People Podcast - https://buildingpeople.com Frankie Spencer on LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/frankiespencer Sustainable Building Design Principles - https://sustainablebuildings.com/principles guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/frankiespencer Twitter - https://twitter.com/frankiespencer

    EP13 - Frankie Spencer (Leeds Trinity University)

  7. Jul 15

    EP12 - Stuart Dunlop (MCC)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this episode, Stuart Dunlop shares his journey from environmental science to managing sustainability at Lord's Cricket Ground, highlighting innovative strategies and the importance of data in creating sustainable sports venues. keywords sustainability, sports venues, data analytics, environmental management, Lord's Cricket Ground, climate action, stakeholder engagement key topics Sustainable stadium management Data analytics in environmental strategies Stakeholder engagement and communication Net zero targets and energy management Impact of climate change on sports venues takeaways Data-driven decision making is crucial for sustainable stadium management. Effective stakeholder engagement is key to implementing environmental policies. Innovative technologies like AI can track and reduce carbon footprints. Old buildings can be retrofitted to meet modern sustainability standards. Clear communication helps gain support for environmental initiatives. Titles How Data Drives Sustainability at Lord's Cricket Ground From Environmental Science to Sports Sustainability sound bites "Data plays such an integral role in sustainability." "Old buildings can be retrofitted for modern standards." "Stakeholder engagement makes all the difference." Chapters 00:00 Cricket Season Buzz 00:00 Stuart's Career Journey 00:51 Stuart's Journey: From Environmental Science to Sustainability Management 05:34 Navigating Urban Environmental Challenges 08:56 Air Quality Monitoring and Policy Implementation 13:52 Sustainability Initiatives at Lord's Cricket Ground 20:18 Data-Driven Sustainability in Sports Venues 23:07 Mentorship and Role Models in Sustainability resources UN Sports for Climate Action Framework - https://un.org/sport/

    EP12 - Stuart Dunlop (MCC)

  8. Jun 9

    EP11 - Andrew Spencer (Equans)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this insightful interview, Andrew Spencer, Energy and Carbon Services Director at Equans UK, shares his journey from engineering to leading decarbonisation projects across the UK. Discover how technology, human behaviour, and innovative strategies are transforming the built environment for a sustainable future. keywords Decarbonisation, Built Environment, Energy Transition, Virtual Power Plants, Place-Based Decarbonisation, Sustainability, UK Buildings, Energy Management, Climate Resilience key topics Andrew Spencer's career journey from engineering to decarbonisation The role of technology and human behaviour in sustainable buildings Place-based decarbonisation projects and their impact Virtual power plants and energy flexibility Climate resilience and adaptation in the built environment Titles From Engineering to Net Zero: Andrew Spencer's Decarbonisation Journey How Technology and Human Behaviour Shape Sustainable Buildings sound bites "Virtual power plants match demand and generation digitally" "Climate change impacts are already costing the UK millions" "Find what interests you and have passion in your career" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Energy and Decarbonisation 01:26 Andrew's Journey into Energy and Engineering 06:08 The Role of Community in Energy Projects 09:27 Success Metrics in Energy Projects 13:37 Understanding Building Management and Human Interaction 15:34 Technology and Human Element in Energy Solutions 18:20 Explaining Virtual Power Plants and Flexibility 21:26 Decarbonisation and Energy Security 23:01 Resilience in the Built Environment 24:49 Climate Adaptation and Cost of Inaction 29:29 Future Innovations in Energy Management 32:47 Navigating the Energy Industry: Lessons Learned resources Equans UK - https://www.equans.co.uk/ PAS 2035 and 335 - https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/

    EP11 - Andrew Spencer (Equans)
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The Building People – a GridEdge.ai original series. Where we spotlight the career journeys and hard-won lessons of the people who help keep Britain’s buildings running. Hosted by Paul McCorquodale, CEO at GridEdge.

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