International Women's Day 2025: Meet Alexandra Taylor
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we wanted to find out from the women who work in our industry what it is like to work in an environment that is predominantly male dominated.
Today, we spoke to Alex Taylor who works in Sales as a Area Sales Manager.
Alex, tell us what motivated you to pursue a career in this field?
It wasn’t something that I necessarily decided to do, but I feel like I fell into this career and have enjoyed it everyday since. The relaxed nature of the business appeals to me and I feel I work well as a result of this, having built some great friendships during my career.
Have you had any mentors or role models who helped shape your career? If so, how did they influence you?
I’m really fortunate to have had strong managers in every role that I’ve held. This has allowed me to be able to select the parts of their management style that works for me and to use them in order to enhance my own skills.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?
Having joined the construction industry at a young age, my early experiences were opinions that “women didn’t know as much as men about the industry”. However, I’m really pleased to see those attitudes change and no longer be something that’s voiced.
What changes would you like to see in this industry to make it more inclusive for women?
It’s something that I am already starting to see, which is an increase in the number of women in the industry, but it would be great to see those numbers continue to rise. I don’t think this is necessarily something the industry does or doesn’t do, but it’s about women and girls being made aware that those roles exist and that it’s a good industry to go into.
If you met your younger self for coffee, what would you say to her?
To believe in myself and that I am capable. Being friendly and approachable can open all sorts of doors.
What misconceptions do people have about women working in construction, and how do you challenge them?
That women don’t know the technical in-depth information as well as men do, but I just make sure that I have my facts straight and provide them with the information they need. I’m also not afraid to say I’ll need to come back to you and check any information I have before giving an answer.
Finally, you’ve spoken about your role and the industry but how do you achieve work-life balance, what do you like to do in your spare time?
As a single mum flexibility is a great benefit for me and this role offers that, I’m able to work remotely and do what I need to get the job done. Outside of that I like to go on holiday with my daughter, spend time in the gym or run around after my spaniel.