Spotlight: Belul - Galldris
We wanted to shine a light on the inspiring female professionals who play an integral role in Construction during the 25th Anniversary of Women In Construction Week. Through interviews, we asked key questions about their accomplishments and what lies ahead for women in the industry, showcasing just how much is possible within this space!
Recently, we had the pleasure of speaking with Belul Mesfin, who is enjoying employment at Galldris working as a Assistant Construction Manager. We asked Belul:
Tell us a little about your history in the Construction industry?
“After completing my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and Marketing, I wanted to progress my education in management. I was drawn to the construction industry in particular, as it is an evolving and consistently innovative field to be in. I joined Galldris in 2021 as a Graduate Construction Manager, which had me overseeing that the right number of the workforce are allocated to each workplace, developing monthly reports that capture project and finance progress and ensuring a high standard of work was delivered. I was heavily involved in the new Claremont Park project, ensuring that the work was up to the high standards we hold ourselves to.
After a year, I was promoted to Assistant Construction Manager, earning more responsibilities such as managing a smaller-scale construction project within the wider Brent Cross Town development.
Throughout the past year, I’ve been delighted to have seen more women promoted within the industry, whether it’s as a Banksman, Engineer, Health & Safety Advisor, Project Manager and many more.”
What has been your most rewarding experience since joining the Construction industry?
“Being accepted for who I am onsite. I am a single mother with responsibilities and Galldris enabled me to combine my responsibilities and develop my career.
At first, I thought I would be intimidated but it has been the complete opposite. For me, I would like to see more women enter the construction sector and feel empowered to do so as there are plenty of roles and skills to be shared.”
Tell us how you started your career in Construction and what attracted you to join the industry?
“I went to University and achieved a Degree in Business Management & Marketing, before transferring to a Masters Degree in Construction & Engineering Management. When I was looking for an opportunity, I signed up with a Women into Construction Project, which offered a work placement. I was lucky to be offered a 2-week placement with Galldris, who subsequently took me on and have been progressing ever since.”
What do you think are some of the advantages of being a woman in the construction industry?
“I believe women in the workplace make the men behave better. In this male dominated industry, companies are waking up to the benefits of employing women and with targets to increase the diversity of the industry, and more and more opportunities are becoming available.”
What do you find are the biggest challenges working within the construction industry?
“For women, with families and children, the hours can be a challenge. I am grateful to Galldris who offered flexible working to enable me to look after my family and forge ahead with my career.”
What advice would you give other women who are considering entering the industry?
“Go for it! Construction offers a variety of roles to suite everyone’s interests.”
What is next for you in your career?
“I am currently an Assistant Construction Manager, the next step, after some more experience, would be to become a Construction Manager running the entire site.”
Belul is an Assistant Construction Manager for Galldris, as well as a Mother. Advancing through the ranks with her Masters Degree and positive spirit!
Belul hopes through more experience to reach Construction Manager position meaning more responsibilities and management of entire sites.
