CPI colleagues acclaimed in Women in Construction awards

It was a night of celebration for dry mortar specialists CPI EuroMix at the CITB’s Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction awards, with four of its colleagues being recognised for their impact on the industry.

Launched in 2022 by the National Federation of Builders, the awards showcase women who have made female and non-binary roles models more visible and accessible in the sector.

Three CPI employees were named in the Top 100 Influencers for Women in Construction: Wendy McFarlane (Finance Director and Chair of CPI’s Inclusion Network), Soraia Pardal (HR Business Partner) and Pen Le Kelly (Communications and Engagement Manager). Wendy and Soraia were also shortlisted in the ‘Local Hero’ category – one of five categories in this year’s fiercely-contested awards. As a key influencer in supporting inclusion and change within the construction industry, Tony O’Sullivan (CPI’s CEO) was recognised for his work as an ally.

Speaking of the company’s multi-representation at the finalists’ event held at the Burlington Hotel in Birmingham, Tony O’Sullivan said: “I’m delighted for Wendy, Soraia and Pen. Their commitment to promoting diversity is worthy of official acknowledgement. CPI continues to champion inclusion in any way that we can. We believe it key to attract and retain the best talent as well as having the resources to meet the future requirements of the industry.”

The Top 100 Influencers Awards for Women in Construction was primarily founded to address the industry’s gender imbalance. Current UK statistics reveal a huge discrepancy, with only 18% industry employees being female and of those, a mere 2% are ‘on the tools.’

It’s key that the construction industry works together to become a more diverse sector. CPI’s Wendy McFarlane launched The Building Bridges Network back in June to shine even more light on the industry’s lack of diversity. Comprising a collective of powerhouse construction brands and companies, Wendy was joined by attendees from Taylor Wimpey, SIG, Selco, MKM, Clarkson Evans, Leyland SDM, Marshalls, Grafton Group, and Crest Nicholson for a group discussion on industry topics ranging from diversity and equality, through to construction training and recruitment. Members are encouraged to take inspiration from the group’s thoughts and experiences in dealing with matters debated during Building Bridges Network meetings to implement new ways of working in their individual businesses.

Wendy McFarlane said: “The Building Bridges Network is a collaborative enterprise designed to instigate positive change in building industry culture. We aim to do this by sharing our individual experiences. Together, we hope to inspire a more diverse and inclusive construction industry. New members bring new ideas, so please get in touch if you want to join the discussion by attending our meetings.”

Left to Right pictured above: Wendy McFarlane (Finance Director and Chair of CPI’s Inclusion Network), Soraia Pardal (HR Business Partner) and Pen Le Kelly (Communications and Engagement Manager).