This week marks Women in Construction Week, a time to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women making significant strides in a traditionally male-dominated industry. In honour of this occasion, we bring you an exclusive interview with Kate Beauchamp, CEO at Mabey Holdings, a true trailblazer in the field. Kate has not only excelled in an industry where men have historically dominated but has also emerged as a distinguished leader in her own right. Join me as I delve into Kate’s journey, experiences, and the invaluable insights she offers, with the hope of inspiring more females to enter this exciting sector.
1. Attraction to the Real Estate Industry:
Interviewer: What attracted you to the real estate industry initially?
Kate: I was one of those rare individuals who found joy in the complexity of land law. The blend of practicality, design, and the ability to create a sense of place in real estate development projects drew me in. Working across diverse development teams on impactful projects with scale was truly enticing.
2. Leadership in a Male-Dominated Field:
Interviewer: When you began your career, did you ever imagine becoming a leader in a male-dominated profession?
Kate: I had no predefined expectations. Having thrived in male-dominated environments through my experiences coxing men’s rowing eights since a young age, I always saw myself as ‘one of the lads.’ It never occurred to me that my gender might hinder my aspirations, although there were some occasional disappointments in navigating a predominantly male environment.
3. Importance of Mentorship:
Interviewer: How important is having a mentor for your growth as a leader?
Kate: For me, mentorship has made all the difference. Seeking guidance from various mentors over the years has been invaluable. I’ve always welcomed external perspectives on my professional development, finding feedback insightful and essential. If a piece of feedback irritates you, that’s the golden nugget to explore – a piece of advice that proved to be valuable.
4. Inspirations in Leadership:
Interviewer: Who inspired you and why? Kate:
My father inspired me from the start, embodying integrity. Such individuals make a significant difference, and I believe measuring oneself against such standards is crucial. Currently, I am inspired by Dr Heather Melville, OBE, Chancellor of the University of York and a brilliantly practical thought leader, who is charismatically and successfully driving the conversation on the importance and value of inclusivity into the heart of UK Boardrooms.
5. Leadership Style and Gender Dynamics:
Interviewer: Describe your leadership style and how it differs from your male counterparts.
Kate: Professionally, I consider myself a servant CEO, emphasising team-led delivery. Unlike the more traditional “lead from the front” style often seen in male leaders, I try to focus more on ensuring those around me excel in their roles. Effective delegation has been a learning process, but it significantly contributes to organisational stability.
6. Navigating Power Structures:
Interviewer: How did you navigate power structures early in your career versus later in your more formal leadership role?
Kate: Early on, it was about having healthy respect, tempered by straight-talking. Later in my career, I try to maintain that healthy respect but to refine my choice of words, ensuring they align better with the context and the hat I am wearing.
7. Staying Grounded:
Interviewer: What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself?
Kate: Talking through concerns with respected individuals helps gain perspective. Admittedly, I don’t prioritise self-care as much as I should, being busy looking after others. However, a good night’s sleep tends to cure most things.
8. Advice for Future Female Leaders:
Interviewer: What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
Kate: Three key points – Leadership isn’t alchemy; it’s a combination of integrity, hard graft, common sense, and luck. Embrace the responsibility; if you can’t find an inspiring leader to follow, that means it’s your turn. Don’t define yourself based on gender or diversity characteristics; value yourself and approach people with confident equanimity, but be prepared to roll your sleeves up and get stuck in.
As we continue to celebrate Women in Construction Week, Kate Beauchamp’s journey stands as a testament to the limitless potential of women in the construction industry. May her story inspire and encourage more females to embark on their own exciting paths within this dynamic sector.