When people think of the construction industry or those who work in a quarry they probably think of a big burly man. Historically that may have been true and probably was for the Gallagher Group, after all we’ve been in business for 50 years, and back when we started in the 70s it would have been rare to find a female working in either industry like many others of the time.
However, our business has moved with the times and dropped those stereotypical ideas a long time ago. We are enormously proud of the diversity of our team in age, ethnicity and gender. None of which should be a barrier to a career in any industry in 2024. Our teams across all areas of the group enjoy the experience and talent each individual brings to the business. For us if you can do the job and do it well, then the opportunity is available to build a career to be proud of and if you need support we will provide it and if you want to progress we will help to develop you.
Gallagher Group CEO, Lyndsey Gallagher has worked in the construction industry for over 20 years. Being a woman trying to break into the industry was extremely hard. Lyndsey is very thankful to have been supported, encouraged and mentored by her male colleagues wherever she has worked. However, she has at times experienced negative behaviour from some who have found it difficult to accept a woman in this industry. These prejudices still exist and not all women have the experience we wish they did.
We hope our approach inspires our team, our clients and our supply chain partners to be inclusive and supportive of anyone wanting to work in our industry.
We asked our female colleagues at Gallagher about their experience working with us and below is a snapshot of what we were told:
Can you share examples of times when you felt particularly supported or included, and what contributed to that experience?
“On joining Gallagher, I was made to feel welcome by every single staff member. Everyone was willing to offer me help to settle in and I felt as if I was part of the amazing team from the word go!”
Alison Spence, Gallagher Team
“As a relatively new member of the Gallagher team, I have felt inspired by the positive attitudes toward females within the company. To have such strong inspirational women in senior roles within the company is an example of how females are respected and listened to within the business, especially given the male dominance of the construction industry. This definitely gives other females, including myself, the empowerment to grow and strive to achieve great things.”
Elaine Weal, Gallagher Team
How has Gallagher supported and opened opportunities for you as a female team member?
“Setting an example for promoting a culture of inclusivity and diversity within the business, the Gallagher Family sponsored me with a Skilled-Worker visa, providing an opportunity to grow further in my career. Creating such a supportive environment that values the contributions of women, fosters a more balanced and equitable workforce in the construction industry.”
Udeshika Weerakkody, Gallagher Team
“Opportunities have arisen for me on a personal level since I joined Gallagher nearly 5 years ago. This has had a positive impact on my career, growth and development within the company. I feel supported in my role and my confidence has grown. Being a female within the construction industry is empowering and I do believe we play a significant role within the business.”
Emma Nimmo, Gallagher Team
What initiatives or actions have made a positive impact on your career growth and development within the company?
“In 2017, I was fortunate to be offered the opportunity to take part in a residential course provided by a third party, The Leadership Trust. This course was intense, mentally, and physically and made me step outside of my comfort zone. Attending this course gave me more confidence in the workplace and the ability to develop within the company.”
Kim Thistleton, Gallagher Team
“Due to the male dominated industry, imposter syndrome played a part in my early years, and this was recognised and coaching was offered to help me overcome this. I certainly feel more confident than I did a few years ago, and the business continues to support me in this area as my role develops.”
Ali Stroud, Gallagher Team
The overall message to our male allies…
“Continue to support and encourage your female colleagues as you already do – together we make a great team!”
We are so proud to hear these endorsements of the culture we have created at the Gallagher Group and that the experience of our female team members is a positive one.
Today is International Women’s Day, so let’s spread the word and inspire inclusion in all industries, so that old ideas are firmly in the past and everyone can build a career to be proud of regardless of background or gender.
