Lendlease Springboard

Impact and Lendlease began working together in 2008 when the Lendlease Foundation decided to redesign 'Springboard'. Lendlease Foundation is an internal business unit established in 1983 for the development and benefit of Lendlease employees. ‘Springboard’ was launched in 1998 as the Foundation’s flagship global programme. This case study is the story of how our partnership began, and the multi-award-winning programme that came from this.

Springboard has generated $32.7m of verified social value, helping to contribute to Lendlease’s target to create $250m of social value by 2025. Lendlease Foundation commissioned an external review of the results their Tasman Peninsula programme generated for Lendlease employees, local community volunteers and businesses. This Independent SROI (Social Return on Investment) report shows how the programme returned $3.60 for every $1 invested.

In this podcast we're joined by Edmund McCombs, Head of Social Impact at Lendlease, and Roger Nielsen from Impact to explore the story behind Springboard. Edmund and Roger discuss what the programme means to Lendlease, its participants, the communities it touches, and those who deliver it. Tune in to hear what Springboard is, why it matters, how it drives sustainability, and top tips for anyone starting a similar journey.

Between 2014-2018 over 1000 Lendlease employees took part in Springboard on the Tasman Peninsula. This five-day personal development programme not only supported them in reaching their full potential, it also generated over $20 million in social and economic outcomes for Lendlease participants, local community volunteers and businesses.

In 2020 all of Springboard’s community relationships had to move online. This virtual programme supported participant’s mental health through its learning content, with outcomes clearly linked to the Lendlease Sustainability Imperatives and the Sustainable Development Goals. With a Net Promoter Score of 96, the feedback from employees and community partners highlighted the importance of human connection, hope and a sense of community.

Springboard Capricorn Coast focuses on how living in balance with ourselves, our workplace, and our natural environment benefits wellbeing and commitment to change. Outcomes align with the Lendlease Sustainability Focus Areas and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Participants engage with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and local communities, learning from experts and traditional landowners.

"Springboard is an impactful program that weaves together personal and professional development through the lens of sustainability, supporting and learning from the communities we engage with." 

Edmund McCombs, Head of Social Impact and the Lendlease Foundation

Springboard has been recognised with awards from institutions including: Brandon Hall Group, Personnel Today HR Supplier Partnership Awards, Australian Business Awards and the Australian HR Institute Awards.

Springboard has been delivered across a diverse range of global locations, each chosen to deepen participants’ connection to community and sustainability. From Thailand to Far North Queensland, the Capricorn Coast to the Tasman Peninsula in Australia - each immersive learning experience has been designed to benefit local economies. The reach is meaningful, impactful and sustainable. To find out more please get in touch.