The Scottish Government’s head of construction procurement policy Lisa Goldie spoke to around 60 members as they enjoyed a three-course meal at the Scotsman Hotel in Edinburgh.

A RIBA Chartered Architect and Chartered Project Professional, Ms Goldie provides national leadership across construction procurement reform and the systems, standards and commercial frameworks that govern major public sector investment. 

Her address focused on “a future approach to social infrastructure”, detailing the Scottish Government’s preliminary thinking behind a new delivery model which aims to build on what works and improve what does not, in order to make better decisions together.

Ms Goldie said: “Our emerging thinking brings together three ambitions: better planning, a modern market interface and whole-life performance.

“We need a modern relationship that enables the industry’s skills, capacity and creativity to shape decisions early, not simply respond to them. It must give major organisations, SMEs, manufacturers, specialists and local businesses genuine opportunity to influence delivery, compete fairly and contribute expertise.

“Better decisions made earlier and made together is how we secure long-term public value. That is the intention of our work to develop a future approach for social infrastructure.”

SBF president Euan Clark welcomed guests and gave a brief outline of some of the challenges and opportunities facing the construction industry.

Speaking at the event, he said: “We had a wonderful lunch and covered some interesting topics. I think we can agree that we’re all facing many of the same issues, so it’s been good to air them – and it’s also a great way to catch up with some old friends and new.”

Mr Clark also announced a donation of £1,000 from the federation to its charity partner, Mates in Mind, which supports organisations in higher-risk sectors, such as construction, to create environments and cultures that promote positive mental health.

The SBF President’s Lunch was sponsored by People’s Pension.