Sara Barnes
Role:
Preconstruction & Marketing Manager | Interclass
Expertise:
- Recognised as one of the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction for both 2022 and 2023
- Achieved ILM Level 5 certification in Leading with Integrity, with a commitment to ethical leadership
- Championing the development of a Neurodiversity training programme for the construction industry in conjunction with CITB and the National Federation of Builders
Sara brings over 10 years of construction industry experience with Tier 1 and regional contractors. Throughout this time, she has consistently promoted inclusion and promoted the benefits of a diverse workforce in the construction sector.
In addition to heading up the preconstruction team at Interclass, Sara is also a member of the Senior Leadership Team. She oversees the delivery of several company strategies, including Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), Mental Health & Wellbeing, and Social Value.
She has collaborated with organisations such as The Lighthouse Club, Samaritans, Mind and the Mental Health Productivity Programme to create a supportive and inclusive culture that prioritises mental health.
She also plays a key role in recruiting the next generation of talent by building relationships with local colleges and leading apprentice recruitment efforts.
Last year, Sara played a pivotal role in securing funding from the CITB’s Industry Impact Fund for Interclass, facilitating the development of a pioneering neurodiversity training programme. This initiative aims to create a more accessible and supportive environment for individuals with neurodivergent conditions working in construction.
Outside of work, Sara volunteers for Age UK and Pets as Therapy, and has also set herself the goal of running 12 half marathons this year!