Laura Brown is the only Branch Manager in Burton Roofing. Her main responsibility is the overall running and development of the York depot. She is been working for two years in the company.
What does the International Women’s Day mean to you?
It reminds me of how far we have come, but also how much work is still left to do.
The key thing I have learnt is that for women to be successful and challenge gender stereotypes, we need to stay true to our own individual values, rather than trying to behave in a way that fits the mould of what is traditionally expected from senior professionals.
How the role of women has changed in your sector?
I’ve seen a huge difference in attitudes to women in the industry, when I joined there were very few women in anything other than admin roles and I can’t remember any women in sales, it is still very much a male dominated industry but I don’t think that is down to any discrimination, I think it just isn’t an area which attracts women to it.
Have you ever found any difficulties in your career for being a woman?
In previous years the stigma around women in construction proved difficult and frustrating when looking for career opportunities to further and improve my career.
What you would consider to be your most significant contribution to Burton Roofing?
Most significant contribution to date is proving that Burton Roofing are an equal opportunity employer by employing myself in a managerial position.
Why you would recommend working at your company to other women?
I would recommend working at Burton Roofing as they are not afraid to employee women in a senior positions assuming the skillset benefits the role.
