Ep 202: Andrew - Innovation in the Built Environment
In this episode of EGN Leadership Conversations: The Untold Secrets of the C-Suite, host Nick Jonsson sits down with Andrew Shuttleworth, Head of Business Development at Asia Digital Lab, Obayashi Corporation, to explore the fast-evolving landscape of innovation within Southeast Asia’s built environment industry.
Andrew brings a wealth of experience from working at the intersection of construction, technology, and strategic development. Together, they unpack how innovation is reshaping the way cities are designed, built, and maintained across the region. From smart infrastructure and digital twins to sustainable construction methods and data-driven project management, this conversation dives deep into what the future of the built environment truly looks like.
Southeast Asia is one of the world’s most dynamic growth regions, with rapid urbanization driving demand for smarter, greener, and more resilient infrastructure. Andrew shares firsthand insights into how leading construction firms are adopting emerging technologies such as AI, automation, IoT, and Building Information Modeling (BIM) to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance safety on job sites. He explains how digital transformation is no longer optional—it’s a necessity for staying competitive in today’s construction industry.
Beyond technology, Andrew highlights the importance of sustainable design practices. From low-carbon materials to energy-efficient buildings and climate-adaptive infrastructure, sustainability is now central to long-term project planning. He discusses how developers and contractors can align innovation with environmental responsibility while still meeting commercial objectives.
A key part of the conversation focuses on leadership in innovation. Andrew shares what it takes to lead transformation inside large organizations—how to foster a culture of experimentation, encourage cross-functional collaboration, and manage resistance to change. He offers practical advice for executives who want to future-proof their businesses by embracing digital tools and new ways of thinking.
Nick and Andrew also explore regional challenges, including regulatory complexity, skills shortages, and the need for stronger public-private partnerships. Andrew explains how collaboration between governments, tech companies, and construction firms will be critical to building smarter cities across Southeast Asia.
Whether you’re a construction leader, urban planner, sustainability professional, or innovation strategist, this episode delivers powerful insights into how visionary thinking is shaping the future of infrastructure. Tune in to learn how digital transformation, sustainability, and strong leadership are redefining the built environment—and what it takes to stay ahead in one of the world’s fastest-growing regions.
Contact Andrew to collaborate with him:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewshuttleworth/
Visit our website to find more podcast https://www.nickjonsson.com/leadership-conversations-the-untold-secrets-of-the-c-suite