People

Andrew leads Okana’s training and development, focusing on digital construction education. His work educating young adults and lecturers showcases his commitment to innovation and sustainability in the built environment. Passionate about advancing digital construction education, he aims to position Okana as a leading training platform. Outside of work, Andrew enjoys weight lifting, running, and cycling.

Paul has worked globally across multiple large scale projects ranging from airports, data centres, hospitals, and commercial skyscrapers. He brings years of experience in digital management of construction projects and defining digital transformation strategies. Paul is driven by maximising the value of digital adoption in the construction industry.

Sean has over 15 years of experience in the construction industry, spending the past eight years as a building control surveyor for local authority. He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE). Sean enjoys camping with his partner and two young children in his spare time.

Govardhini Balakrishnan is a PhD student at the University of Strathclyde. She specialises in the development of Automated Compliance Checking (ACC) frameworks to streamline regulatory compliance in the construction industry. She has contributed to the design of large scale medical campuses and several residential and renovation projects. Govardhini brings research insights into real world applications, advancing the safety and efficiency of architectural practices. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring historical and cultural architecture and travelling.

Melanie specialises in digital information management and leads Okana’s strategic advisory service. Driven by the need for cultural change throughout the built environment, she works closely with clients to unlock operational efficiencies within their organisation and achieve transformative outcomes across their estate. Melanie is an award winning thought leader and regional lead for Women in Building Information Modelling (BIM).

Craig has worked on projects across a wide range of sectors including leisure centre new builds, infrastructure improvements and housing development, plus multiple school and hospital refurbishments. Craig is an incorporated member of the Association for Project Safety (APS) and a technical member of The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). In his spare time, he enjoys climbing, travelling and photography.

Rushdy is an architect with over 19 years of experience, joining Ruben Reddy Architects as a candidate architect in 2005. In 2009 he established the practice’s Cape Town branch, and has since managed to grow and direct his team on several large and complex projects. Rushdy is committed to integrating meaningful social interventions within his designs.

Bernhard is a founding principal of ASPECT Structural Engineers, offering experience as both a respected structural engineering leader and a licensed carpenter. Specialising in mass timber engineering, Bernard is at the forefront of delivering innovative timber and hybrid projects across Europe and North America. Outside of work, Bernhard is known for his love of skiing, running, and chocolate.

Sangcheol is a passionate Building Information Modelling (BIM) and digital innovation specialist. Leveraging technical expertise and strategic thinking, he develops impactful solutions for the built environment across diverse sectors and scales. Sangcheol thrives on crafting efficient workflows and execution plans that empower professionals and drive successful project experiences.

Wahib is an accomplished researcher specialising in digital construction, currently advancing his PhD in the adoption of digital twins for managing construction sites. His active consultancy work involves collaborating with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and software providers to enhance construction risk management. An advocate for lean principles and systems thinking, Wahib is dedicated to improving data management efficiency across construction operations.

Patrick has played a leading role in the growth and development of Metro Dynamics. He has led major regeneration programmes in Birmingham, Liverpool and Manchester over a 25 year career, developing major projects from conception through to delivery. He regularly advises the UK Government on the implementation of place based regeneration and investment programmes.

Geoff plays a crucial role in driving business growth and operational performance. His extensive background in the design industry helped establish a worldwide reputation in the creation of distinctive leisure and lifestyle destinations. Geoff is passionate about promoting innovative, cross cultural collaboration in design.