THE IMAGE
OF WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION SURVEYORS
A collabora on between NAWIC London and South East @nawicLDN and Photographer Morley von Sternberg FRIBA @morleyvon Soon to be found at www.imageofWIC.com
KATRINA
DOWDING
Portrait by Morley von Sternberg Part of the www.imageofwic.com in collabora on with @NAWICLDN
ROLE
Executive Vice President
LOCATION Across the UK
I LOVE
“Recruiting and developing amazing people, growing a business that enables people and enterprise to flourish, championing diversity and inclusion and creating better buildings and infrastructure which unlock engagement, productivity and happiness.”
NOTE TO YOUNGER SELF
MY JOB
“To lead in a way that enables the brilliant people in my business to excel. Or more formally put: Executive Vice President of a Business which builds and maintains, offices, schools, hospital, libraries, parks and a multitude of other buildings. Responsible for maximizing the organization's operating performance and achieving its financial goals.”
CAREER SO FAR
“Spend more time thinking about what you can do rather than what you can't.
“My career has gone from a traditional journey through Quantity Surveying- through which I achieved a Fellowship into the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors- moving into Operations, Strategic Planning into Business Leadership.”
If you get given an opportunity, seize it and then work out how you are going to do it!”
HAS YOUR PERCEPTION OF THE INDUSTRY CHANGED SINCE YOU JOINED?
A WISH FOR OUR INDUSTRY
“The harnessing of data and information to lead to better productivity, engagement, financial success and happiness.”
“The industry has come on leaps and bounds in the last 28 years the opportunities are much wider for lots of different skill sets and has become far more connected with the customers and end users and the diversity and inclusion agenda alongside ethics has really come to the fore.”
MY INFLUENCERS
“My parents - they never said there was anything I couldn't do! Early female pioneers in the construction industry.”
MICHELLE HANDS
Portrait by Morley von Sternberg Part of the www.imageofwic.com in collabora on with @NAWICLDN
ROLE
Site / Setting out Engineer
LOCATION Leeds
I LOVE
It’s great to work in a team and being able to see the final project once complete and knowing you helped, gives me a great sense of achievement.
NOTE TO YOUNGER SELF
“I would say you have to let courage beat out fear. You never know how much you might enjoy something or whether you are actually be good at it un l you give it a go.”
A WISH FOR OUR INDUSTRY
“I would like for smaller companies to adopt a more female friendly working environment i.e., support for women who may want to start a family. “
MY JOB
“I always knew I wasn’t cut out for an office job and I didn’t want to be outside all the time either. My job is the perfect blend of the two. Site engineers perform a technical, organizational and supervisory role on construction projects, setting out and determining the location of above and underground installations involved in construction operations. I work as part of the site management team, liaising with the client, site managers, structural engineers, architects and the teams of subcontractors and ground workers. “
CAREER SO FAR
“I started out in construction as a Quality Assurance Engineer within the Waste Sector after obtaining a degree in Geography. Following eight years in that field, I re-trained as a Site/Setting out engineer. I already had site experience performing managerial roles so the transition just involved me taking a part time course so that I could learn how to use the engineering equipment to set out. The majority of Site Engineers started out by taking on an apprenticeship, or by having a Civil Engineering degree, so my route into the job was a little bit different. I have been a Freelance Site Engineer for a few years now and have had the pleasure of working on many different projects for both large international companies as well as smaller ones too.”
MY INFLUENCERS
“Employers and colleagues. Since joining the industry, while looking for a summer job, their support of has sent me on the route to become the engineer I am. My brother has been a huge support too. He is an engineer and took the same route into the industry at the same time as I did. Having him to talk to and share stories and experiences gave me perspective.”
ORLAGH
MCCAULEY
Portrait by Morley von Sternberg Part of the www.imageofwic.com in collabora on with @NAWICLDN
ROLE
Development Manager
LOCATION London
I LOVE
“The ability to work on projects that are tangible, live and are making a positive impact in the local community whilst pushing the boundaries of design and engineering gets me up in the mornings. But the part of my job that I am most proud, is the problem-solving aspect. Working within teams to solve site, building and design complexities to achieve beautiful, functional buildings which make an impact is the favourite part of my job.”
A WISH FOR OUR INDUSTRY
“The Construction Industry values varied backgrounds and experiences. It gives a solid platform from which I can explore my interests and passions and I believe more Women should have this opportunity also.”
MY JOB
“I am a Retail Development Manager at British Land. As well as broadening my skills and Industry experience on design optimisation, stakeholder management and delivery, I work in collaboration with talented and multi-disciplined project teams delivering retail led projects.”
CAREER SO FAR
“My career to date has been a varied one. I started off working as a Bridal wear seamstress and dressmaker, making and altering bridal dresses before going to University to study Interior Architecture and Spatial Design. Two years later after having to take time off from studies for health reasons, I was accepted to UCL to study Project Management for Construction and to fund my studies I got an alcohol licence and bar management training qualification and ploughed all my money into buying a lease on a bar in Shoreditch. For 2 and a half years I managed my bar business full time, whilst studying full time until I decided I would sell my bar and focus on working in the Built Environment. 2011 saw me taking part in an international engineering competition sponsored by Bouygues UK, who became my employer. Three years later, I joined Buro Four, working as a Project Management Consultant on projects such as the refurbishment of the Old Vic theatre or regeneration projects in East London. I was then accepted in the Future Leaders training scheme at St James where I worked both as a Production Manager and a Technical Manager in numerous elements of the White City Master plan. Finally, in December 2017, I joined British Land as a Development Manager within the Retail Team.”
ABIGAIL PETERS
Portrait by Morley von Sternberg Part of the www.imageofwic.com in collabora on with @NAWICLDN
ROLE
Building surveyor
LOCATION Farnborough
MY JOB
“Whilst I’m based in our office where I work within a team of 10 other surveyors and architects, I regularly visit sites & our clients within the education, healthcare and ecclesiastical sectors. Most people think building surveyors just check property roofs & wall cracks and whilst that is certainly an important part of our business, we also consider how building should perform for occupants & the immediate environment, we manage the Tender process and Project Manage.”
I LOVE
“The reaction when I tell people I am a Building Surveyor. They are often surprised and intrigued in equal measure. Another thing I enjoy is discussing the practical aspects of a project with the contractor or client.”
NOTE TO YOUNGER SELF
“Research your career path as soon as you start to form interests in topics or hobbies. And remember that an early career choice does not have to be for life.”
A WISH FOR OUR INDUSTRY “More promotion of the construction industry at schools and careers fairs would be my first priority.”
CAREER SO FAR
“Buildings, particularly those with a historical significance, have interested me since childhood and in 2010 after spells in office administration, hairdressing & retail, I decided to turn my interest in buildings into a career. I studied a BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Construction and the Built environment at Reading College where the practical assignments included Bricklaying, Carpentry, Painting and Decorating. Being a mature student, finding the right path was not easy and I had to take on a few part-time jobs to help fund my education but I wanted a degree and so I extended the BTEC course to a Level 3 and was awarded a distinction which opened the door to enrol at Kingston University to study for a BSc in Building Surveying. In 2015, I graduated with a first-class honor. It has been a long road, but perseverance has really paid off. My career is genuinely rewarding, and I am already planning my next venture; to undertake an MSc in Historic Conservation.”
MY INFLUENCERS
“My grandfather. Whilst studying to become a Civil Engineer, he was called up to serve his country in World War 2. He was captured twice and ended the war as a prisoner in Germany. At the end of the war he continued his studies and qualified as a Chartered Civil Engineer. He could build anything and that left a lasting impression that with a dedicated approach, any problem can be overcome. I often think what my grandfather would do when I’m faced with an obstacle.”
ANJALI PINDORIA
Portrait by Morley von Sternberg Part of the www.imageofwic.com in collabora on with @NAWICLDN
ROLE
Project Surveyor
LOCATION
Edgware, London
MY JOB
“By job title I am a Project Surveyor and oversee the project management and financial status of multiple projects that we undertake. However, due to the size of our firm I have taken on other wider duties in areas such as: Health and Safety, Sustainability and Accounting.
I LOVE
“That I can represent diversity and that our industry is allowing for my minority to gain some inclusivity. More importantly, I am pleased to make the firm proud and feel the chance, they took on me paid off.”
NOTE TO YOUNGER SELF
I am office based but visit sites twice a week or more dependent on the project needs.”
CAREER SO FAR
“2 weeks into studying Accounting and Finance at Brunel University I looked around the auditorium and found myself being another number. Unhappy and lost, I was given a blind opportunity by my Dad and Uncle to join the family business- Avi Contracts - where I trained to become a Quantity Surveyor. I studied part-time the 2-year HNC in Construction at College of North West London, transitioning into a 3-year degree at The University of Westminster. I still remember the words I heard on my first day at work – “You won’t last your probation period, you’re in a man’s world”.
“To the younger, scared, naïve but determined Anjali. I would tell her that the hard work pays off.”
It has been an intense yet satisfying experience which has mentally tested my capabilities and helped me progress in my career and build my character.”
A WISH FOR OUR INDUSTRY
“I am lucky to be surrounded by many people who have influenced my career progression, remaining vital to my support system. I wouldn't be where I am today without Chem (my Dad) and Avi (my Uncle) who gave me the chance to work with them.
“More promotion of the construction industry at schools and careers fairs would be my first priority.”
MY INFLUENCERS
I have also had two amazing colleagues Priesh (my boss) and Trevor (my mentor) who continue to teach me.”
THOMASIN REDSHAW
Portrait by Morley von Sternberg Part of the www.imageofwic.com in collabora on with @NAWICLDN
ROLE
Director of Development
LOCATION London
MY JOB
“I lead the day-to-day development management activity for Grosvenor’s major mixed-use (2 acre) scheme in Mayfair: the South Molton Triangle.”
I LOVE
CAREER SO FAR
“Making things happen, particularly if they seem impossible.”
“Not very traditional. I left university (with a degree in Astrophysics) and, after a brief spell temping which led to a 6month stint working for a property company, I worked in the music industry for three years.
NOTE TO YOUNGER SELF
I then took the decision to return to property and become a Chartered Surveyor, which meant studying every weekend for 3 years for my MSc.
“Chin up and keep going, it is worth it in the end!”
A WISH FOR OUR INDUSTRY “True diversity. I would like to see people of all walks of life in the property industry. Tell young women that working in the industry is more than just construction and architecture. I didn’t even know that my job existed when I was at school.”
I have always worked ‘client-side’– firstly for a very small company, then London & Regional and Muse Developments, now Grosvenor.”
HAS YOUR PERCEPTION OF THE INDUSTRY CHANGED SINCE YOU JOINED?
“When I first entered the industry, I found networking quite hard, but I made an effort to stay in contact with people I liked and got on with. I now have a very wide network of friends and acquaintances throughout the industry, which makes it feel much more welcoming.”
MY INFLUENCERS
“I have trusted my gut instinct in making all my career decisions.”
RACHEL RICKETTS
Portrait by Morley von Sternberg Part of the www.imageofwic.com in collabora on with @NAWICLDN
ROLE
Project Manager
LOCATION London
MY JOB
“I currently work at a London based property development company. We specialise in the design and delivery of residential developments and I am a Project Manager.
I LOVE
“There are lots of different roles available in different types of companies. On top of which it isn't just about the opportunity in the UK, but abroad as well. With UK experience it is possible to get roles around the world which for someone like me who likes to travel is a very big incentive.”
NOTE TO YOUNGER SELF
“I suppose the best advice I could give myself is to really research the industry. Research what schemes companies are offering such as apprenticeships or day release programs where you can work and study at the same time. Join construction networks to get more contacts and get more information because sometimes it's not very straightforward to get the information.”
Until recently, I was working at London’s biggest housebuilder where I was a Quantity Surveyor. As a QS, my main responsibility was to act as a cost manager ensuring, as much as possible, that the project was built as close to budget as possible.”
CAREER SO FAR
“I always thought my degree would have been in Economics or International Relations. However, when I was about to apply for University, I was advised to look for a degree that would set me apart. This landed me in a Civil Engineering class. Before starting my degree, I took a gap year at an Engineering Consultancy and once I completed my second year at university, I took a second gap year in Dubai working for a Main Contractor. This time in Dubai is still my favourite as I got to experience things like climbing a tower crane, manage a team of construction men who had many years of experience more than I and working on a construction site as the only female. When I finished my degree, I went into Finance and then the Events/Logistics at the Olympic Games. After completing the Games, I knew I wanted to go back into Construction but this time in the Commercial Sector. “
MY INFLUENCERS “Because no one in my family had gone to university I seek the advice from a family friend and Lecturer who advised me to look for a distinct degree. I was also influenced by my Maths A-level teacher who told me about University Residential Weeks where I was able to live in Halls for a week and find out more about Engineering, whilst still an A-level student.”
JESSICA TABIBI
Portrait by Morley von Sternberg Part of the www.imageofwic.com in collabora on with @NAWICLDN
ROLE
Project Quantity Surveyor
LOCATION London
MY JOB
“I am a Quantity Surveyor for a developer. I work on site most of the time, often on more than one project at the time and sometimes in different parts of the country. Day to day I carry out the procurement, valuations, payments and supplier management but I am also involved with tendering for new work.
I LOVE
I love seeing a project through from start to finish. That I can walk past completed projects, knowing that my job was vital for their success. I also love the team aspect of construction projects. Our successes are shared, our issues are resolved together.
NOTE TO YOUNGER SELF
“Take every opportunity to explore the industry further. Be braver and commit to taking "scary" career decisions.”
A WISH FOR OUR INDUSTRY
I like the variety in my job, I am able to spend time in the office, and time out on site seeing what is going on and understanding how processes work.”
CAREER SO FAR
“After graduating in Geography from Kings College London, I gained professional experience as a Project Manager working on projects worldwide. More recently as a Quantity Surveyor working in the U.K. I have worked in the Engineering and Construction sectors for over 10 years. My experience began as a project manager in rail, telecoms and healthcare in several high-profile projects including the Thameslink project and the FTN/GSM-R project at Network Rail, as well as healthcare projects in the UK, Middle East and Asia. After 6 years working as a Project Manager, I decided to retrain and embarked on a career as a Quantity Surveyor. Having completed an MSc in Surveying at UCEM, I graduated in 2017 and I am now working at Berkeley Group.
MY INFLUENCERS
“I would like the gender pay gap for QSs to close.
“My father, he taught me the importance of education, professional qualifications and networks for career success.
Male and female should be paid the same, we are all as valuable as each other.”
He introduced me to the engineering sector and inspired me to want to achieve the same kind of success he has.”
A collabora on between @nawicLDN +Morley von Sternberg @morleyvon www.imageofWIC.com