Wrenching Stereotypes, Repairing Futures: Amanda Cromarty on Women Powering Social Housing Maintenance.

This Women in Construction Week, Sovini Property Services isn’t just fixing leaks; they’re plugging the gaps in gender equality. We sat down with Amanda Cromarty, Head of Commercial for Sovini Property Services & Teal Scaffolding.

Amanda’s story is a testament to resilience, a narrative that stretches from site drawings to the prestigious Grand National, and now, to the heart of social housing maintenance.

Q: Amanda, “Head of Commercial” sounds like a juggling act. How do you keep all those plates spinning, especially when it comes to social housing?

(Laughs) It certainly is, bit like riding a unicycle on a tightrope! Being a working mum while also Head of Commercial is challenging, but finding the right balance makes it all worth it.

My journey started with site drawings in 1995, then a pivotal 14-year stint at Tarmac, and even a detour into managing the Grand National at Aintree Equestrian Centre. But always, construction called me back. At 26, I earned my Degree in Construction Management & Science through day release at Uclan Preston, proving it’s never too late to pursue your passion. And then, when motherhood arrived in 2013, I didn’t just pause; I launched a family broadcast company, filming equestrian events for major networks, while still working part-time as a Quantity Surveyor. It’s about adaptability, about proving that you can wear many hats—and wear them well.

We’re harmonising the needs of our social housing partners with the practicalities of keeping homes safe and sound. It’s not just about making a repair, it’s about understanding that a home isn’t just a structure; it’s a reflection of the people who live in it.

Q: “Traditionally male-dominated” is an understatement. What’s it like being a woman navigating in the world of construction?

Historically when I began in the construction as a site drawings photocopier 30 years ago, it was about proving your worth with every conversation, every decision. However, times have changed over the years with more females joining the male dominated environment. We’re not here to fit in; we’re here to redefine what “fitting in” means.

Q: Sovini Property Services works with social housing providers. How do you ensure that “diversity and inclusion” isn’t just a buzzword?

We are not just talking about it; we install it into the very fabric of our operations. It’s about creating opportunities where they didn’t exist before. And those people are diverse. So, our team needs to be too. The Sovini Group has been instrumental in my own development, taking me from a part-time Senior Quantity Surveyor to Head of Commercial in just four years. They believe in nurturing talent from within, which is a powerful example of real inclusion.

Q: If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Everyone has a unique perspective and deserves to be heard. Your voice matters, embrace change and trust your instincts. I am a firm believer for self-belief and perseverance, emphasising the importance of patience and dedication in achieving career success. Never fear failure, mistakes are part of the journey, learn from them and use them as stepping stones towards success. And, I’d tell myself, resilience is your superpower. In my 30 years in construction, I’ve learned that tenacity is just as important as technical skill.

Q: Looking ahead, what’s the dream for women in social housing maintenance?

That we won’t need a “Women in Construction Week” to highlight our contributions. That we’ll be seen not as exceptions, but as the rule. That every woman, regardless of her background, has the opportunity to build a fulfilling career and a better future.

Beyond her current role, Amanda’s ambitions are clear. ‘My short-term goals revolve around collaborating closely with SPS operational staff to drive efficiencies and enhance margins and profits. Looking ahead, my long-term aspiration is to ascend to a directorship role within the organisation.‘

And what is she most proud of? ‘As a female professional in the construction industry, I take immense pride in excelling in my role while seamlessly balancing the demands of motherhood. My ability to navigate high-pressure environments while fulfilling maternal responsibilities stands as a testament to my resilience and multifaceted skills.’

Amanda Cromarty is more than just a Head of Commercial; she’s a catalyst for change. At Sovini Property Services, we are not just maintaining homes; we’re building a legacy of inclusion, with every repair completed in the local communities.