Alyson inspires women in construction to reach for the top

Published by Kelly Elliott for Keepmoat in Housing and also in Communities

A female project manager, who has inspired other women working within the male-dominated construction sector to aim for the top, has been recognised with a prestigious award.

Alyson Seddon works for the national housing and regeneration company Keepmoat, and has managed a host of high profile and sensitive projects across the North West during her time with the company.

As well as building up strong relationships with her clients she has also been an inspiration to her colleagues, both of which contributed to her being named Project Manager of the Year at the Women in Construction Awards.

The annual event, which is held at Lancashire County Cricket Club, aims to showcase the work of women within the construction industry and provide positive role models to females within the sector.

Alyson won praise for her management of several large school projects, including the refurbishment of Morecambe Bay Community Primary School, undertaken by Keepmoat on behalf of Lancashire County Council.

While the modernisation of the 110-year-old Edwardian building took place, Alyson ensured the school was able to remain open, with the pupils, teachers and Keepmoat staff all working safely and successfully side by side.

School head teacher Siobhan Collingwood said: “Alyson and her team did an excellent job and I think one of the key factors in our successful partnership was the fact she was always prepared to work alongside us in ensuring that the children's needs were never overlooked.

“From the first day the team arrived on site they became part of the life of the school, always taking an interest in the day to day running of the school, getting to know the children and the staff.

“No one deserves this award more than Alyson and we’d like to wish her big congratulations from all of us at the school.”

Alyson has also become a well-respected and popular role model within Keepmoat, with many female members of staff describing her as an inspiration.

Regional Marketing Co-ordinator Belinda Swana said: “Seeing females like Alyson working in a male-dominated industry and yet doing so well and moving into senior management inspires me.

“I have often sat in meetings with Alyson and seeing how she handles and deals with the client, subcontractors and her staff in such a professional and efficient way is very inspiring – she is a great role model.”

Alyson’s line manager Jeff Hook, Keepmoat Operations Manager, added: “Over the past few years Alyson has undertaken some of the most challenging projects within our public buildings department, and achieved excellent results.

“She has been a key factor in developing our brand within the business and our reputation within the industry.  We have experienced high levels of repeat and negotiated work on the back of her performance in delivering high quality projects on time and on budget.

“Furthermore, her commitment to supporting her team and the way they add value and dedicate personal time to their projects, generate benefits that help to shape communities for years to come.”

Alyson started out in construction as a site engineer 23 years ago and has since worked her way up the career ladder, joining Keepmoat 17 years ago and reaching her current role of Contracts Manager in 2006.

She said the journey had not been without its challenges, but that the end result was well worth the effort.

She said: “I’ve never had any issues in relation to being female but I think it does mean I’ve worked harder to prove myself. I love the variety the job brings and have especially enjoyed the school projects I’ve worked on over the last few years.

“Winning the award is a complete surprise and a real honour. Working in construction can be challenging, especially when it comes to juggling work and family life, but I would definitely encourage other women to choose it as a career path – it is very rewarding.”