Ahead of Women in Construction week (3-7 March), Joanna Mulcahy, Commercial Director of Murphy's, and Lighthouse Charity Trustee shares her aspirations for the industry.

Women in Construction Week promotes the role of women in our industry and is an opportunity to showcase industry ambassadors and their successes and achievements.

Joanna Mulcahy is a Commercial Director at Murphy’s, a leading global, multi-disciplined engineering and construction company. She is a resolute advocate for mentoring and developing the next generation of professionals and is deeply passionate about driving positive change within the sector. She is also a Lighthouse Charity Trustee.

We caught up with Joanna to discover a bit more about her aspirations for the industry and her insightful ‘Bob the Builder’ moment.

Tell us about your role at Murphys?

My journey began as an assistant quantity surveyor, and over the past two decades, I have held various roles within the Civil, Energy, Major Projects, and Transportation sectors of the business. As Commercial Director at Murphy’s, one of my key responsibilities is overseeing the ‘Great Grid Upgrade’ for National Grid which is the largest overhaul of the electricity grid in generations. We are one of seven industry partners appointed to deliver this significant programme of works, which aims to build the new electricity network infrastructure required to reduce the UK’s reliance on fossil fuels. This initiative is a brilliant opportunity to contribute to the nation's energy infrastructure and drive sustainable development. The magnitude and pace of this project demand that we come together as an industry and adopt new ways of thinking and operating, which is incredibly exciting to be a part of.

Did you consider any other career path?

I attended an all girls’ convent school where programmes and career advice were limited. I was encouraged to either become a nun or a missionary, but neither path resonated with me. Initially, I considered a career in law, but my passion for the construction industry and the opportunities it presented led me to pursue this field. The dynamic nature of construction, combined with the ability to shape the built environment, solidified my decision to build a career in this industry.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your job?

The ability to influence and drive significant projects that shape our communities and infrastructure is incredibly rewarding. Seeing a project come to life from conception to completion and knowing that it will positively impact people's lives is enormously fulfilling. Additionally, creating world class infrastructure that sets new standards for quality and innovation is a source of immense pride. Mentoring and developing the next generation of professionals, particularly women in construction, also brings me great satisfaction, as it ensures the continued growth and success of our industry.

What do you think are the biggest challenges for the construction industry today?

One of the biggest challenges is addressing the skills gap and ensuring that we have a workforce equipped with the necessary skills to meet the demands of modern construction. The industry must also continue to innovate and adopt sustainable practices to reduce its environmental impact. Navigating economic uncertainties and maintaining profitability while delivering high quality projects is also a significant challenge.

What one piece of advice would you share with women considering a career in construction?

Be confident in your abilities and seek out mentors and role models who can provide guidance and support. The construction industry offers diverse opportunities, and your unique perspectives and skills are valuable. Embrace these opportunities with confidence and curiosity, and you will discover that your potential is truly limitless. Don't be afraid to challenge the status quo and strive for excellence in everything you do.

What can be done to encourage more women into construction?

Women make up approximately 15% of the construction workforce in the UK. This is a significant increase compared to previous years, but there is still a long way to go to achieve gender parity in the industry. To encourage more women into construction, we need to promote the industry as an inclusive and rewarding career choice from an early age. This involves engaging with schools and universities, showcasing successful female role models, and providing mentorship programmes.

I actively work with young students to help shape career aspirations. A few years ago, I was invited to my son's school to give a talk to the reception class. I went into the classroom wearing my full PPE and the children started singing "Bob the Builder", including my son! They were incredibly surprised when I took off my hard hat and safety goggles, as they all expected to see a man. This experience highlighted how stereotypes are ingrained from a young age, and it underscores the importance of reaching out to children early to challenge these perceptions.

It's also crucial to ensure young females are aware of the diverse career options available in construction and understand how fulfilling and rewarding the industry can be. For instance, my eldest daughter recently had a day placement for work experience with us and was amazed by the variety of roles within the industry. This kind of exposure can be incredibly impactful in shaping career aspirations.

I truly believe in the power of visibility. As the saying goes, "She believed she could, so she did." There aren't enough women in the industry for young girls to see and think, "If she can, I can." By encouraging more women to pursue careers in construction, we can tap into a wider talent pool, ensuring that we have the skilled workforce needed to meet future demands. 

What could change our industry to make the biggest impact?

Creating an environment where people feel comfortable to talk about their struggles could have a significant impact on the construction industry. Mental health issues are prevalent in our sector, with construction workers being three times more likely to take their own lives than the national average. This statistic highlights the need for support within our industry and creating an environment where wellbeing is prioritised is important. When employees know that their wellbeing is taken seriously, they are more likely to stay with the company and perform at their best. This, in turn, can lead to better project outcomes and a more positive work environment.

What lessons have you learned in your career that can inspire others to succeed?

One of the key lessons I've learned is the importance of resilience and adaptability. The construction industry is constantly evolving, and being able to navigate challenges and seize opportunities is crucial. Building strong relationships and maintaining a positive outlook can also make a significant difference in achieving success. Lastly, continuous learning and professional development are essential for staying ahead in this dynamic field.

What motivated you to become a Trustee of the Lighthouse Charity?

The Lighthouse Charity works closely with our business and has a mission that deeply resonates with me.

I am committed to improving the overall culture of our construction industry and I am passionate about supporting initiatives that promote positive wellbeing and skills development within the sector. The charity’s proactive support for apprentices and students also aligns with my belief in the importance of nurturing future talent and creating a more inclusive industry.

The construction industry faces significant challenges with wellbeing issues and we all have a role to play in helping to support each other. The Lighthouse Charity is at the forefront of providing that support and their dedication to improving mental health and wellbeing in our sector is unparalleled, and I am honoured to be a part of such a vital organisation.

How does your daily work tie in with being a Lighthouse Charity Trustee?

My work as a Commercial Director involves strategic decision-making, risk management, and fostering a positive company culture, all of which align with my role as a Lighthouse Charity Trustee. In both roles, I am committed to ensuring that resources are managed effectively and that our mission is fulfilled. This includes making key decisions and maintaining high standards of compliance and ethics.

By leveraging my industry experience and network, I can contribute to the charity's mission and help drive meaningful change. My work in the construction industry has given me a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by people and this insight allows me to advocate for effective support systems and initiatives that can make a real difference in the lives of construction workers.

Finally, what’s your next big challenge?

As a Commercial Director of Murphy's, my biggest challenge is a combination of balancing sustainable growth with innovation, attracting and retaining top talent, whilst being unwavering in my commitment to achieving zero harm. Our business purpose is to deliver world class infrastructure projects that improve lives. To achieve this, we must integrate advanced technologies to enhance efficiency and project outcomes, all while ensuring we have the right people with the right skills to drive our success. By overcoming these challenges, we can continue to cultivate an organisation that adeptly navigates change and consistently delivers exceptional results beyond our client’s expectations.

On a personal level, I am training to complete my first marathon. This challenge is not only about physical endurance but also about mental resilience and discipline. Balancing a demanding career and being a mum to three young children with a rigorous training schedule requires time management and dedication (and an incredibly supportive husband). Achieving this goal will be a testament to my commitment to personal growth and wellbeing, demonstrating that with perseverance and determination, remarkable achievements are within reach.

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