18 Cover Story
BUILDING A MORE INCLUSIVE FUTURE Leighton Asia leading the way in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the construction industry The construction industry, long perceived as a male-dominated field, is experiencing a profound transformation. As the world recognises the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in all sectors, the construction industry is no exception. In a recent interview, Lighthouse Club had the opportunity to speak with three prominent voices from Leighton Asia’s Women in Construction and Engineering Group (WOICE). Victoria Crasti, Chief Financial Officer and Human Resources of Leighton Asia, and Co-chairs of WOICE Johanny Pérez D’Oleo and Diana Hutchinson who are Project Planning Manager and Assistant Bid Manager of Leighton Asia, shared their perspectives on how the industry is evolving and how the company is leading the construction industry on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
regions, so everyone accepts that diversity is a part of the company. As a result, a sensitivity to the importance of the diverse cultures and backgrounds of our people is rooted in the company.” Crasti went on to highlight the business case for diversity in the construction industry. “Diverse teams are more innovative, more adaptable, and ultimately more successful,” she notes. “By embracing diversity and inclusion, we not only reflect the communities we serve but also gain a competitive advantage.” Pérez D’Oleo agrees and adds that diversity enhances decision making processes by reducing groupthink and bringing fresh perspectives to the table. “In construction, where problem solving is a daily requirement, diverse teams are better equipped to find creative solutions,” she says. “We recognise that diversity is our strength.”
The business case for diversity
Empowering women in construction
Crasti says that being a multinational company, diversity aspects such as culture, religion and race are naturally embedded into Leighton’s ethos. “We have people constantly moving between
As part of the CIMIC Group, an Australian engineering-led construction, mining, services and public private partnerships leader with a history dating back to 1899, Leighton Asia has
Victoria Crasti, CFO and Human Resources, and Colman Wong, General Manager Hong Kong
Our WOICE Champion Victoria and Co-chair Diana recently participated as speakers in the “Empowering Women Series” co-organised by Leighton Asia and Lighthouse Club