Empowering the Next Generation: Squaredot's Joe Huddleston Takes on BCO's Mentoring Programme as National Chair.

We're thrilled to announce that our very own Joseph Huddleston has been named the National Chair of the British Council for Offices (BCO) Mentoring Programme!

Joe's dedication to fostering connections and nurturing the next generation within the built environment industry makes him a perfect fit for this leadership role.

The BCO Mentoring Programme, launched in 2019, offers invaluable support for BCO's younger members (NextGen). This program provides the future generation with the opportunity to connect with established industry experts who serve as mentors, offering guidance and support.

Hugely Beneficial For Shaping the Future of the Industry.

BCO membership, which includes access to the NextGen Mentoring Programme, offers significant benefits for young professionals within the built environment. Mentorship is flexible and supportive - members can apply for mentorship at any time and with their partnered mentor, choose the frequency and length of their meetings. The program is designed to be shaped by the mentee, empowering them to take charge of their development journey, and while the minimum commitment is one year, mentor-mentee pairings can be extended to foster deeper relationships and continued growth.

Benefits for NextGen members are extensive, including:

• Building a Network of Expertise: Connect with experienced professionals who can offer valuable insights and guidance.
• Goal Setting and Achievement: Gain support in setting and achieving ambitious career goals.
• Career Development: Receive tailored advice and strategies to advance your professional journey, especially around softer business skills.
• Enhanced Confidence: Develop the confidence and self-belief needed to flourish within the industry.
• Safe Space for Open Discussion: Benefit from a confidential space to discuss challenges and explore solutions.
• Performance Feedback: Gain valuable, independent feedback to improve performance.
• Industry Insights: Develop a deeper understanding of the built environment sector and the skills needed for success.

Building on a Strong Foundation.

Joe's appointment follows five years of remarkable leadership by Clare Ashmore. During her tenure, the program saw significant growth and established itself as a cornerstone of BCO's support for young professionals.

Joe comments on the appointment, 

"I’m delighted to be taking on this exciting, wide-reaching and impactful role.  It’s been a pleasure witnessing the numerous thoughtful and creative initiatives Clare has curated over her time as chair, growing the programme nationally.  Clare has created a programme that is welcoming, inclusive and nurturing of our talented young professionals.  I look forward to working with our dedicated regional mentor leads in order to build upon these successes, promote further engagement, innovation and collaboration between our BCO members and the wider built environment, through mentorship and partnership."

We at Squaredot are confident that Joe, with his passion for mentoring and his commitment to the industry, will continue to build upon these successes and further empower the next generation of built environment professionals.

Congratulations again, Joe!

Be sure to connect with Joseph Huddleston and the British Council for Offices on LinkedIn to stay updated on the program's exciting developments!