Dr Graham Kelly

How would you summarise your current role?

I am responsible for leading the strategy and implementation of digital transformation projects specific to a client’s real needs. This goes beyond BIM: it is as much about the people as it is about the technology.

What do you believe are the current challenges in our industry and how can we overcome them?

The biggest challenges currently in our industry are around how we utilise technology effectively to improve productivity and certainty. Currently, we are throwing a lot of tech at antiquated problems – rather than getting to the route core of problems and creating appropriate solutions. I think this will change with support from companies like BIM Academy. The construction industry is on the cusp of dramatic change and I am excited to be at the leading edge of this.

What is your proudest moment?

Nine months into my BIM Academy career, I led and won a bid to create a BIM-enabled FM system for the Sydney Opera House. We continue to work with the Opera House to this day, and it has enabled BIM Academy to be one of the global leading experts in BIM-enabled FM, which is something we now advise clients about all over the world.

What added value do you bring to your projects?

For me, the people that are going to implement a game-changing digital transformation to an organisation are more important than the technology and processes they are going to put in place. I want to support clients in creating a culture that empowers the change; if we get the culture right, the technology will take care of itself. To paraphrase management consultant, Peter Drucker: “culture eats technology for breakfast.”

What would people be surprised to know about you?

I have coached American Football at an international level. I was a coach for the Great Britain under-19s for 5 years, which took me to tournaments in Italy, Netherlands, Serbia and Denmark. Whilst I don’t have as much time to coach now, I still take a keen interest in the sport and coach locally when I can.