The British Geotechnical Association (BGA) is the principal
association for geotechnical engineers in the United Kingdom.

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The 2025 John Mitchell Lecture

BGA Meeting
  • 21.01.2025
  • 18:30 - 20:00
  • Institution of Civil Engineers, One Great George Street, London SW1P 3AA
  • Event Type: BGA Meeting
  • Download to Calendar
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The 2025 John Mitchell Lecture - The importance of the 6 Ps in geotechnical engineering

by

Yvonne Ainsworth of Taylor Woodrow

21st Jan 2025 18:30 hours

Institution of Civil Engineers, One Great George Street, London SW1P 3AA

Event Information

This event is planned as an in-person event, and will also be webcast live.

This event is free to attend, but advance booking is required - a link will be published on this page nearer the event.

Photographs may be taken at the event and used for BGA promotional purposes; if you have any objections please contact the BGA via email.

The event will be followed by a drinks reception.

The John Mitchell Award is presented annually by the ICE, based on a nomination from the BGA, for significant contributions in the field of geotechnical engineering. The award was instituted in 2008 in memory of the prominent geotechnical engineer John Mitchell of Arup, who was killed while observing piling works at a central London site in 1990.

The award criteria considered by the BGA include the following:

  • In reflection of John Mitchell’s career, selection will favour practical applications of up to date geotechnical concepts or models (rather than advanced theoretical academic practice).
  • The BGA will consider individuals, like John, who in the course of their careers via incremental works have made significant contribution to geotechnical practice.
  • Notwithstanding the above, the BGA will in addition consider any contemporary practitioner who has instigated a major advance in the geotechnical field, thus opening the award up to the innovative, regardless of age or incremental contribution count.

This event is free to attend.

Synopsis

This lecture will unveil the hidden secrets to successful geotechnical engineering. By exploring a framework of six powerful Ps, the talk investigates how these often-overlooked elements can dramatically influence project outcomes, from conception to completion. The 6 Ps have been established over the course of two decades but are not those that people typically assume…

Speaker Biography

Yvonne Ainsworth is a highly experienced strategic leader, with a proven track record in driving innovation and operational excellence within the geotechnical industry and wider construction sector. A recognised expert within the geotechnical industry, Yvonne has over 20 years’ experience. Her career has seamlessly transitioned between consulting and contracting roles, affording her a unique perspective and deep understanding of the industry's challenges and opportunities. Currently serving as the Business Unit Director for Civils South at Taylor Woodrow, Yvonne oversees a team of 100 employees, and is responsible for delivering civil engineering projects, valued at over £40 million, across the South of England.

Yvonne has always been passionate about driving the continuous improvement of the geotechnical industry, meticulously planning and executing projects, with a keen eye for detail and unwavering passion. Yvonne’s strengths lie in solving complex challenges, developing effective and practical solutions, and building strong relationships, both internally and externally, encompassing employees, clients, partners and stakeholders.

Yvonne’s expertise spans a vast range of areas, including:

  • Executive Leadership: Leading diverse teams and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
  • Strategic Project Direction: Translating complex business challenges into actionable plans, which lead to significant organisational advancements.
  • Risk Mitigation Strategies: Proactively identifying and mitigating potential risks to ensure project success.
  • Financial Oversight: Managing budgets effectively and ensuring profitability.
  • Complex Project Coordination: Leading multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality projects on time and within budget



Refreshment Details

Tea and Coffee will be available from 18:00.

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