International Women's Day 2025: Meet Lisa Robson
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 Lisa Robson who works in Procurement as a Buyer.
Lisa tell us what motivated you to pursue a career in this field?
I fell into it by accident. I started off as an office junior but had a passion for saving money for the business and knew I was good at negotiating. At the time there weren’t many female buyers / women in chain supply and I couldn’t understand why. I wanted to shape a role that was my own and prove that women could do it as well as any man could.
Have you had any mentors or role models who helped shape your career? If so, how did they influence you?
We fight like cat and dog but my sister has had a big influence on me. She is older and has always worked in the construction industry working her way up the career ladder and is very determined. This made me realise that I could achieve anything that I put my mind to.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?
When I was younger, I found I had to work harder than men. There is an assumption that you will naturally go off on maternity leave or be the parent to look after a sick child at home. It’s also assumed that this would be the woman’s duty and even today, that is still the case. Women are seen as unreliable because of their obligations outside of work. Because of this, I have found there have been more opportunities for men in the workplace than for women.
What changes would you like to see in this industry to make it more inclusive for women?
I’d like businesses to offer education around the personal challenges that women face, such as menopause. I believe that if men were informed about what are seen as taboo subjects, it would make it easier for women in the workplace.
If you met your younger self for coffee, what would you say to her?
I’d tell myself that I was enough, to never give up. Take those chances, you can accomplish anything if you try hard enough.
What misconceptions do people have about women working in construction, and how do you challenge them?
It’s still an old-fashioned view and women are still seen as the weaker sex. It’s not all high heels and handbags – women are just as strong as men but still feel they have to work harder to prove it. I’m here to dispel the myth!
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?
Hybrid working has enabled me to find a good work-life balance. I have a dog, Penny, who keeps me busy and we go for long walks which is great for mental health and to unwind. I also enjoy meeting different people out and about on those walks.