THE Managing Director of Warrington-based housebuilder David Wilson Homes North West has explained why she’s determined to be a role model for women entering the construction industry, this International Women’s Day.
Claire Jarvis, who was originally born in Scotland, has become an advocate for diversity having climbed the career ladder and wants to inspire young women to consider a role in the construction sector.
Claire said: “We need to do more collectively as an industry to encourage young girls into the industry. There are so many great opportunities and careers available, whether it’s a Quantity Surveyor, Land Manager, Sales Adviser or Site Manager.
“The main challenge I found was not having any female role models in certain roles and not seeing those leadership figures I could aspire to and understand their journey.
“Early in my career, there weren’t any development or mentoring programmes specifically for women in construction. I don’t look back on it negatively, but I think we’ve come a long way since then.
“My advice to anyone starting their career would be to not let anyone discourage you. There will be many challenges along the way, but if you believe in yourself and you are prepared to put the effort in to develop yourself, you will succeed.”
Claire grew up on new housing developments in the North East and North West of England, which sparked her interest in the industry.
Her fountain of knowledge in the construction sector first started in a Sales Negotiator role at Bellway Homes, followed by a range of alternative sales and management roles with Hamptons International, Knight Frank, Crosby Homes and Persimmon Homes.
Prior to joining David Wilson Homes in July 2023, she was the Managing Director of Redrow Lancashire and one of a handful of female housing chiefs in the UK’s private housing sector.
Claire continued: “I don’t perceive construction to be a male-dominated industry, we just need more females in senior roles and as role models.
“I think more could be done on the educational side as not enough women are aware of the vast career opportunities within the industry. We need to keep trying to find new ways to inspire the younger generation by targeting social media platforms and using other relevant communication tools.
“One thing we’re passionate about at Barratt Developments is our schools outreach programme, which is designed to educate young people about construction from an early age.”
With a wealth of experience in different roles within the housebuilding sector, Claire is evidently a fantastic role model for young women. She prides herself on being inclusive in her management and leadership style, and encourages her team to treat others with respect and professionalism.
Having proven it’s possible to work at many levels and reach a senior leadership role, she’s developed a real understanding of the different demands within the sector, which allows her to be empathetic and supportive.
She has also recently become the Chair of our Barratt Developments’ Central Region Diversity and Inclusion Committee.
It hasn’t come without its challenges, however, as Claire added: “My first role as a Managing Director was an intense experience. It was as we went into the COVID lockdown and had to support our colleagues, keep everyone safe and hit the ground running.
“Another challenge I’ve faced in my career is finding PPE to fit, as I’m quite small! I used to put on a hi-vis vest on site and it would be down to my knees, and I could never find safety boots small enough. Again, that’s improved in recent few years, thankfully.”
This year’s International Women’s Day campaign theme, #InspireInclusion, envisions a world where gender equality flourishes, free from bias, stereotypes, or discrimination. It’s a vision of a diverse, equitable, and inclusive society where differences are not only accepted, but celebrated.
Barratt Developments set-up Catalyst in 2018 to help women at the company to network and connect across the business. The programme was formed as a support initiative to connect these women and provide external expert support to address certain challenges.
It also has an employee-led network – Under One Roof – which focuses on gender equality, and aims to create an environment for everyone to thrive regardless of their gender.
During National Inclusion Week in September 2023, the leading housebuilder launched its latest network, SheBuilds, to create a safe and inclusive environment for women on site and on tools and promote construction as a careers choice. SheBuilds provides peer-to-peer support, networking and signposting to support for women.
For more information about the career opportunities available at David Wilson Homes, visit the website at Barratt Careers.
For details about any developments in the county, visit the website at David Wilson Homes in Cheshire.
