What can we do to get more women into senior roles?

In recent years, we have seen a concerted effort to attract more women into the construction industry. However, women in construction still face issues that must be addressed, notably the gender pay gap.

To close this gap, part of the solution will be to promote more women to senior decision-making positions. But how can more women be attracted to, and retained in, the industry – and win promotion to higher levels?

Bryony Siggs, a director at Mace, notes that: 'My work in schools as an enterprise adviser with the Careers and Enterprise Company has shown me that some students, parents and teachers have little if any knowledge of career opportunities in construction.

'We know this doesn't have to be a linear or traditional entry either – my languages degree gave me all the transferable skills to succeed in the industry. The earlier we start raising awareness in schools, the greater impact we can have.'

Taking up the point about transferrable skills, AECOM senior project surveyor Lauren Lemcke says: 'Developing skills outside your current area of expertise can significantly boost your career. Upskilling in areas that you're passionate about – such as sustainability, technological advancements or health and well-being – can feel more natural and rewarding.'

Lauren says that 'attending industry conferences, seminars or workshops can also help you discover new areas of interest to enhance your knowledge and broaden your capabilities'.

She remarks that 'getting involved in industry initiatives, whether through networking events or joining a committee, is an excellent way to stay up to date with the latest industry trends, contribute meaningfully to the sector, and advance your career.

'There are numerous options, depending on your sector or area of expertise. For example, RICS Matrics actively seeks early-career professionals to participate in local committees across the UK, providing valuable opportunities to get involved.'

Bryony adds that: 'I have always been encouraged to build relationships and focus on expanding my network. It starts small: attending some technically focused networking events in your local area, finding a topic you're passionate about, and developing relationships with peers in your own discipline and across the sector.

'For me, this has grown into taking on roles with industry bodies, including RICS, and on boards for the Association for Consultancy and Engineering and the British Aviation Group (BAG).

'These roles, including chairing BAG's communications working group, have enhanced my technical knowledge and personal confidence. Each board or initiative offers a pathway to progress and making meaningful contributions.'

It can initially be intimidating to do so; but seeking a mentor can be one of the best ways to take your career to the next level, as Bryony found out.

'My first mentor was a senior director from a completely different team, and in many ways just having someone to listen to me was hugely valuable,' she says.

'I was lucky that my mentor had faced many of the challenges that I was facing, was very successful in her career, and was formidable in her approach to work.

'She suggested ways to change my technical approach to work. But she also challenged me to think differently about work in a personal and people-focused way, widening this to the context of my life, my passions, values and personal brand.

'Since then, I have worked with mentors from within and outside the industry, offering unique perspectives. Each relationship is different, and I have learned to accept comments and feedback, taking on board those that I think will help me.

'The most important things are the alignment of values between you and your organisation, listening to feedback from colleagues, and constantly thinking about whether and how you are having an impact.'

Lauren also feels that mentoring has been important to the progress of her career: 'Both male and female mentors can offer support, encouragement and motivation, pushing you beyond your comfort zone. Personally, I have found networking groups such as RICS Matrics incredibly beneficial in building these connections.

'I also had the privilege of participating in the Circle Partnership's 2024 Circle Academy, which has been instrumental in my development over the past year.

Targeting mid-level female professionals, the programme addresses retention challenges and includes a 12-month mentoring initiative coupled with a two-day leadership training course.

'This experience has significantly boosted my confidence, and I highly recommend it. Structured leadership programmes are an essential tool in promoting women to senior positions.'

'Women in senior positions act as powerful role models, showing that career advancement is achievable,' says Lauren.

'Companies can commit to gender diversity by setting measurable targets for female representation in leadership roles, appointing more women to their boards, and actively supporting women-led initiatives such as internal women's networks.'

It is important for businesses to be flexible as well, and find ways of attracting and retaining staff through this flexibility.

'Implementing and normalising flexible work policies can attract and retain women in leadership positions,' Lauren adds. 'Ensuring that these policies do not hinder career progression is crucial in fostering an inclusive environment.

'Companies should provide clear, transparent promotion processes with well-defined guidance and regular performance reviews. Establishing a structured pathway to leadership, including setting clear objectives, is vital for career advancement.

'Providing women with challenging projects and decision-making opportunities – regardless of their scale – also empowers and motivates them to take on leadership roles and showcase their capabilities.'

Indeed, both Bryony and Lauren have won the Best Woman Quantity Surveyor category at the European Women in Construction and Engineering (WICE) Awards, in 2018 and 2014 respectively, and Lauren is the RICS Matrics Surveyor of the Year 2024.

Bryony says milestone achievements need to be celebrated to be acknowledged. 'Creating a culture that celebrates success is fundamental to inspiring men and women alike to progress. Winning the Best Woman Quantity Surveyor in 2018 was a significant milestone for me.

'It was a challenge to shout about my own accomplishments, but it underscored the importance of celebrating this success for inspiring confidence in people we work with.

'The award was a fantastic achievement, not only on a personal level but also in the campaign for diversity, and it became a stepping stone to raise my profile, increase awareness of opportunities in construction, and be a role model for those starting out.'

Lauren adds: 'Winning both the WICE Award and RICS Matrics Surveyor of the Year is a huge honour and a career highlight for me. Being acknowledged at this level has helped to boost my confidence – and it is vital that we put our peers forward for these types of recognition.'