Cathryn Greville has been appointed as the new CEO of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC).
Greville, a qualified lawyer with almost 20 years’ experience working across environmental, social and governance areas and regulatory arenas, will begin her tenure at the organisation on November 18.
Greville has been recognised for her work in diversity, equity and inclusion, both in Australia and overseas. She recently returned from the UK, where she led a programme that focused on organisational and sector-wide behavioural and cultural change.
The incoming CEO said she is “honoured and delighted” to lead the organisation, which advocates for women in the male-dominated sector of construction.
“The construction sector and the broader community have an incredible amount to gain by advancing gender representation and inclusion,” Greville said.
“I am passionate about driving desperately needed and long overdue improvements to workplace culture and behaviours, ensuring women from all backgrounds and skill sets feel welcomed, supported and set up to thrive in their careers.”
Just two per cent of Australia’s construction workforce is made up of women, according to government statistics.
The construction industry also has a stark gender pay gap – 30.6 per cent, according to WGEA. This means for every $10 paid to a man in construction, his female counterpart will earn $7.72.
Sexism and discrimination within construction means there is a trend for women to leave the industry, despite rising numbers of women enrolling in construction or trade courses. A recent report from NAIWC and TDC Global, The Not So Little Things Impacting Women in Construction, highlighted the significant personal, professional and financial impacts of microaggressions in the construction industry.
As an organisation, NAWIC works to increase safety for women in construction, improve flexibility for women to start a career in the industry, and enhance women’s skills. Greville said she is determined to continue the fight.
“At this critical juncture for NAWIC and the industry itself, I am looking forward to working with a broad range of stakeholders, including the large team of passionate and committed volunteers, to build on the great work done to date,” Greville said.
“Together, we can collaboratively push forward on the inclusion agenda and I’m excited about the impact we will create.”
Jennifer Gillet, the chair of NAWIC, said she is thrilled to have Greville on board to lead the organisation.
“NAWIC’s people make us who we are,” Gillet said.
“I am thrilled to welcome Cathryn to lead our association full of passionate members, volunteers, industry partners and staff. The next chapter for NAWIC is gearing up to be a very exciting time.
“With Cathryn’s leadership, I know NAWIC will enjoy and lead the journey toward an equitable and inclusive industry for all.”