Challenging stereotypes this International Women’s Day

Workforces in the trade and operational industries have traditionally been male dominated. To mark Women in Construction Week and International Women’s Day, we’re sharing the experiences of our female colleagues who work in operational management and leadership roles that have traditionally been held by men. 

Adelle joined Housing Plus Group in 2010 as an administrator in the Responsive Repairs and Voids team. She has since worked her way up to Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) Manager and now leads a team of 31, overseeing the group’s programme of fire safety works for properties in Staffordshire and Shropshire.    

Adelle said: “I graduated from university, after studying English Literature, feeling unsure about what I wanted to do next. I saw that there was an administrator role available here and I saw that as a good opportunity to start working for a reputable organisation. 

“I was promoted to Responsive Repairs Planner in 2013, after returning from maternity leave, and spent the next few years gaining experience and knowledge about social housing repairs and maintenance. When a role as a Trainee Supervisor was advertised, I felt that I had taken my current position as far as I could, and I was ready for a new challenge. 

“During my trainee role, I spent time with all HPG Property Plus teams, learning about how they work, and shadowing other supervisors to gain vital knowledge and experience. I completed the traineeship in September 2019 and was offered the position as one of the supervisors on the newly formed Fire Risk Assessment Team. Once my experience grew, I started taking on more responsibility within the team and looking for ways to improve our processes. When my manager decided to retire, I felt I was ready to take on that position.” 

Adelle is an advocate for encouraging more women into the construction and trade industry. She said: “Whilst the social housing repairs and maintenance industry is still mainly male dominated, we are definitely starting to see more females coming through in all aspects of the area, including, trades, supervisors and managers. 

“Housing Plus Group is a supportive place for women to work in this industry. When I was in my Trainee Supervisor role, I had a female manager, who was a real advocate for me and my progression. She encouraged me to work hard for what I wanted to achieve and gave me the confidence to do this. 

“There are lots of opportunities available, but you’ve got to be keen, it’s not just handed to you on a plate. As I was showing that I wanted to develop, I was able to participate in an Emerging Heads of Service course, so I’ve always felt like I’ve had the relevant training to be able to progress.  

“I’d like to inspire other women to do the same and see that it can be done with hard work. I think I could be a good mentor for women who are joining the industry, as I understand some of the challenges they may face. It’s not always easy, but it’s certainly achievable, and I’m an advocate for encouraging women into these roles.” 

The theme of International Women’s Day 2025 is #AccelerateAction, highlighting the importance of breaking barriers and moving towards gender equality. 

Caroline is another woman at Housing Plus Group who is helping to challenge stereotypes. As Facilities Manager, she thrives in a role that has traditionally been male-dominated, bringing problem-solving, leadership, and hands-on skills to the job.

Caroline said: “I absolutely love the job. It’s so varied – people come to you with issues, and you have to quickly think of how you’re going to solve them. Whether it’s a last-minute function that needs rooms rearranged or managing refurb projects with different contractors, no two days are ever the same.”

Caroline’s journey at Housing Plus Group has taken her through a variety of roles, from housing to customer service and project management, before stepping into her current role initially as a secondment.

“Each role has given me something new, and I think that’s helped me in this job – knowing different parts of the business and who to go to when I don’t know the answer.” 

She has also led efficiency improvements, including bringing PAT testing in-house, which has saved money and improved flexibility.

“It used to be done by an external contractor in just two weeks, which meant everything had to be rushed. Now, we can be much more flexible, working around team briefs and avoiding taking people off the road when they could be doing repairs for customers.”

Caroline’s hands-on approach is something she takes pride in.

“I’ve had my hands down toilets and things like that, which I probably didn’t anticipate coming into this job! But I’ll always get stuck in and have a go. I’d never ask my team to do something I wouldn’t do myself.”

Caroline is passionate about encouraging other women to take on roles in operational services.

“Secondments are a great way to see if a role suits you, with the security of your original post in the background. I’d definitely encourage women to go for it.”

She also acknowledges the challenges that can come with these types of roles, particularly around work-life balance.

“The hours and flexibility can sometimes be a barrier. Early starts, late finishes, or being on call for emergencies might not work for someone with young children. But Housing Plus Group is an inclusive employer, and we’ve got brilliant female role models in operational management. Seeing women in leadership roles is so important.”