Women in BUILD Awards 2016

Build 2016 Women in Build Awards 8 ince October 2015, I have been working on a development of 91 apartments and commercial space in Kew, known as Heritage Walk. It has been a fantastic project to work on; I was able to start at the very beginning of the build, and have therefore been involved with the piling, groundworks, erection of two tower cranes on site and the reinforced concrete frame. I am now managing the internal fit out of the apartments, which will be completed in early 2017. My role is to ensure that the homes we deliver have zero defects. I do this by sticking to strong processes, by close day-to-day management on site and by working collaboratively with contractors and suppliers. I enjoy having a systematic approach to a project and aim to meet, or beat, programme deadlines. To do this, I hold regular progress meetings with contractors to ensure any issues are addressed early to minimise the impact on programme dates. Having said that, you do also have to be flexible where appropriate – and always be approachable. One of the most important jobs I have is keeping all of our contractors and suppliers compliant with policy changes, as the industry is constantly evolving and it is crucial to keep up to date on changes and new technology. For example, from 1st September 2015, all Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM) between 37kW and 560kW used on any major development within Greater London was required to meet Stage IIIA of EU Directive 97/68/EC, which relates to EU Engine Emissions. Initially this was a challenge as contractors weren’t aware of the new regulation, and had no knowledge of the emissions information for their plant. After explaining the new legislation to them, I have been able to ensure that all NRMM used on our development has complied with the new regulations. I entered the construction industry because I find it absolutely fascinating and love seeing a building take shape and evolve into a home for the future occupier. It was always going to be a challenge working in an industry that is historically male-oriented, but joining St James and getting the chance to prove myself has given me the opportunity to be where I am today. People frequently assume I work for any department other than Build, and I am met with both shock and surprise when they realise I work on site, in a hard hat and boots, managing contractors all day. It can sometimes be a challenge initially to get contractors to respect and listen to me. However, once the initial shock has worn off, I am treated no differently to anyone else on the team. It is frustrating to be met with doubt as to whether I can do the job just because I am a woman, and there is definitely a need to change the preconceived ideas about ‘who’ the typical site manager is. The stereotype of women not being suited to a build team still remains but it is changing, and I really hope that awards like ‘Women in Build’ will help increase diversity in the industry. My advice for women looking to break into the construction industry, and in particular site management, is that as long as you are passionate about it and believe in yourself, there is absolutely no reason why it can’t happen. Best Construction Newcomer 2016 - Greater London Rachel Darvall joined St James Group Limited in September 2015 as a Construction Graduate, having completed a Master’s degree in Property Development. We spoke to Rachel to find out more about how her career with St James has progressed since then. S