International Women’s Day: Navigating the built environment sector as a woman
As we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025, we sit down with Dee Parsons, Group CEO, Sustainability & Outreach Director at Better Green Group, as she shares her experience navigating the property industry as a woman and the challenges she has faced in the built environment sector.
The inspiration to pursue a career in the built environment.
My journey into this industry was shaped by both my personal background and the unique challenges of our time. Growing up in a family of builders, construction and design have been a part of me since childhood. This particular industry is a real passion of mine and starting a company where we can protect the legacy of buildings reminds me of my background and what is most important.
When leading a team, I wanted nothing more than to work with like-minded individuals who are truly invested and committed to excellence – and we’ve built exactly that! Working with a diverse, talented and well-supported group of people ensures our projects are delivered on time, in budget, and with outstanding results. And in turn we can contribute to both local and global communities – this level of fulfilment cannot be matched.
The challenges faced as a woman in the field
As a female, we not only have to navigate a male dominated industry – but a world in general. The most significant hurdle I’ve had to face is the outdated belief that leadership in construction and design is a man’s domain – women are to be seen as admin clerks, in finance, secretary’s or HR, as the backbone worker bees rather than the Queen Bee herself.
However, as we shift towards a greater focus on sustainability and social responsibility, the traditional mindset is slowly being replaced by a recognition of the powerful skill set women have – empathy, emotional intelligence, organisation and strength.
Bringing a strategic blend of emotional intelligence, empathy, and resilience has helped me to forge strong relationships, solve complex problems, and lead teams through challenges. There is no harm in acknowledging our ability to multitask, we are very good at it. The ability to listen, understand, act, and adapt has often been the key to unlocking creative solutions and ensuring the success of projects, which is necessary for any modern-day workplace.
Women in leadership positions driving change in the property sector
As women in leadership roles, we have the power to drive systemic change by pushing for greater inclusivity and dismantling the barriers that still exist within the sector. By prioritising diversity, mentoring the next generation of leaders, and setting a higher standard for equality, women can shape the industry into one that is not only more equitable but also better equipped to meet the demands of the future.
In order to drive change, companies must commit to genuine equality by treating every employee with respect and providing equal opportunities for advancement, regardless of gender. When women are empowered to take on leadership roles, organisations benefit from a broader, more diverse perspective that drives innovation and success. The real change comes when equality isn’t just a policy but is embedded in the workplace culture and everyday practices of the company.
Now being in a position to lead my own team, my greatest role model has always been my father, a respected and successful property builder, who was a key influence in shaping my approach to leadership. He taught me the importance of integrity, fairness, and the value of surrounding yourself with people who are stronger than you in certain areas. His mantra was always, “You’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with,” and that philosophy has been instrumental in building high-performing teams throughout my career.
The importance of sustainability for me and Better Green Living
Sustainability isn’t just a business strategy; it’s a core value that drives everything we do. Our name "Better Green," reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainable practices, which were advocates for long before it became a corporate mandate. Sustainability is crucial not only for the future of our business but also for the wellbeing of our communities and the planet – it's the foundation of everything we build.
Advice to young women aspiring to enter the built environment industry
Stay strong and unapologetically confident in your abilities! The built environment is an industry that thrives on technical expertise but also requires qualities and skills that women excel at, such as empathy, adaptability, and emotional insight. These qualities are not weaknesses, they are essential to success.
Never let anyone make you feel like you don’t belong and use any challenges as an opportunity to become stronger. Your voice and perspective are a powerful asset – use them, embrace them, and be proud of them.
Add your comment
