Why the Environment Agency Is Embracing Conflict Avoidance
This online webinar will take place on December 2nd at 09:30am.
Please note that:
- The interview with the Environment Agency will be recorded and take place between 9.30 and 10.00.
- There will be opportunity for further informal discussion about Conflict Avoidance for those who can stay on the call between 10.00 and 10.30
This session will explore why the Environment Agency has committed to conflict avoidance strategies and how these approaches are supporting better outcomes across its programmes and projects.
Our guest speakers from the Environment Agency will share insight into:
• What conflict avoidance means in their operational context
• Why they signed the Conflict Avoidance Pledge
• Their expectations of their supply chain
• What are the benefits of achieving ‘Gold pledge’ status with the Coalition
• How other organisations can learn from their experience
There will be an online chat facility available throughout the session, giving attendees the opportunity to submit questions directly to our speakers.
This webinar is an opportunity to hear first-hand how conflict avoidance is being embedded within a major national organisation and how the Environment Agency has become part of the change towards a future where conflicts are managed constructively - and eventually prevented entirely.
Speakers:
Environment Agency
The Environment Agency is a national organization in England dedicated to caring for the natural world. It works to protect and enhance the environment, reduce pollution, and manage flood risks, helping communities stay safe while supporting a healthier, more sustainable future. Part of the Defra group [Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs].
In addition to our core responsibilities, we work closely with businesses to support compliance with environmental regulations and encourage best practices. Our role is fundamental in shaping a healthy, resilient, and diverse environment, one that not only enriches people’s lives but also drives sustainable economic growth for communities and industries alike.
Veronica Flint Williams
Veronica joined the Environment Agency in 2010 after more than two decades in the private sector, where she specialized in the water industry’s commercial and contracting divisions. A qualified civil engineer, she brings her technical expertise to the infrastructure and construction sector, ensuring projects deliver sustainable and resilient outcomes. Veronica is a Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers and is passionate about mentoring and inspiring the next generation of professionals.
Since joining the Environment Agency, Veronica has played a pivotal role in shaping its commercial strategies across current and future frameworks. As part of the Commercial Centre of Excellence, she sets the standards and best practices for engaging with construction delivery partners. Her work focuses on managing commercial and contractual risk, ensuring a balanced approach that supports successful project delivery through collaborative partnerships.
Richard Bayfield FICE, FCIArb
Richard began his career working as a student at the Thames Barrier. He has held a variety of senior roles as a Contractor, Consultant and Client. He is currently a Vice President at the Institution of Civil Engineers (www.ice.org.uk). He is a former Chair and Honorary member of the Society of Construction Law (www.scl.org.uk ). Recent roles include Client Director/Advisor, where he helps Client organisations set up processes, communications, contracts and governance that are purposefully designed to achieve collaborative cultures which reduce the risk of project failure. More at www.richardbayfield.com