In today’s rapidly evolving HVAC industry, the need for sustainable solutions and environmentally-conscious practices is more pressing than ever. This urgency is perhaps most keenly felt in companies like Daikin, a leader in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning solutions. Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with Steve Molloy, Sustainability Manager at Daikin UK, to delve into how the company is leveraging training from the BRE Academy to stay ahead in the competitive landscape.
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Steve Molloy greeted me warmly in Daikin’s sleek London office, a testament to their commitment to modernity and innovation. Right from the start, Steve’s passion for sustainability and professional development was evident. “The HVAC industry is at a pivotal point,” he began, “and our collaboration with BRE Academy has been instrumental in shaping how we respond to the challenges posed by climate change.”
The BRE Academy, the educational arm of the Building Research Establishment (BRE), is renowned for its focus on sustainability training. Daikin recognised the need for their teams, especially in sales, to be well-versed in BREEAM standards—one of the world’s leading sustainability assessment methods for master planning projects, infrastructure, and buildings.
“Partnering with BRE Academy wasn’t just a strategic move; it was a necessity,” Steve explained. “Our sales teams are the first point of contact with clients, and equipping them with BREEAM knowledge ensures they can offer informed advice, aligning with our company’s values of promoting eco-friendly solutions.”
As Steve elaborated on the training process, it became clear that this was no ordinary corporate training programme. “BRE Academy provided a bespoke training module tailored specifically to the needs of our teams across Europe. It wasn’t just about teaching them the BREEAM standards; it was about integrating this knowledge into their daily interactions with clients,” he said.
Steve shared how the training was structured to cover both theoretical and practical aspects of BREEAM. It involved detailed sessions on sustainability issues, energy efficiency, and the latest trends in green building practices. “The emphasis was on real-world application,” he noted. “The team emerged not only as better salespeople but as consultants who could advise our clients on how best to achieve their sustainability goals.”
The impact of this training was immediately noticeable. “Since implementing the BREEAM training, we’ve seen a marked improvement in our client interactions,” Steve said, with a smile that suggested a deep sense of pride. “Our teams are more confident, and clients appreciate the depth of knowledge and expertise they bring to the table.”
This competitive edge, however, extends beyond improved client relationships. The training has also fostered a culture of learning and continuous improvement within Daikin. “It’s about staying ahead of the curve,” Steve explained. “The HVAC industry is dynamic, and the trends are always shifting. By investing in our people’s education, we’re not just reacting to these changes; we’re anticipating them.”
Moreover, the training has opened new doors for innovation within Daikin. “Our teams are now more involved in the design and implementation of sustainable solutions,” Steve revealed. “This proactive approach has led to the development of new products and services that align with the latest environmental standards.”
As our conversation drew to a close, I asked Steve about the future of Daikin’s partnership with BRE Academy. “This is just the beginning,” he replied. “We’re exploring further collaborations, perhaps expanding the training to include other aspects of sustainability and innovation.”
Steve’s insights were not just a testament to the success of Daikin’s training initiative but also a reflection of a broader trend within the industry. Companies that invest in professional development, particularly in areas related to sustainability and climate change, are positioning themselves for long-term success.
In a world where environmental concerns are at the forefront of consumer and corporate agendas, Daikin’s commitment to leveraging the expertise of the BRE Academy is a powerful example of how businesses can create a competitive advantage by prioritising education and sustainability.
As I left Daikin’s office, I couldn’t help but feel optimistic about the future of the HVAC industry. With leaders like Steve Molloy championing such initiatives, it seems clear that the future is not only sustainable but also filled with innovation and promise.
Lewis Davis
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