Project Manager
Name: Vanessa Weedon
Career stage: Senior - 10+ years' experience
Working: Office
High School Subjects: Maths (4 unit), Art (3 unit), Chemistry (2), English (2)
Favourite: Art, partly because of the teacher and partly because it balanced out the maths and science
Further study: University
where and what: MA in Architectural History at Cornell University USA, MA in Building Conservation at University of York, UK
"Working in Construction requires strong communication and multi-tasking skills, both of which women are good at."
the inside scoop…
What does a Director of Project Management actually do? I manage a team of project managers that plan the delivery of cultural and civic projects, such as theatres, libraries, museums, art galleries and community centres
What does a day in your life at work look like? Coffee catch up in the morning with a consultant or client, time in office catching up on emails, chairing a mid morning MS Teams meeting with a project team, lunch in the office at our shared table, afternoon on site checking the progress of construction of one our projects
What's the best part of your job? I work with clients who are passionate about what they do
What made you realise construction could be for you? I firstly decided to study Architecture, because I saw that it was a blend between my two strengths in art and science
Do you have any advice for young women picking a career? Pick a career that suits your preferred lifestyle. Think through whether you would be happy to work in an office all day or prefer a job that is more flexible, involves travel etc. Also in the age of AI, think through what jobs will be replaced and which will continue to need people to create and drive them
What would you tell your high school self about working in construction? That it's a great career for women. Working in Construction requires strong communication and multi-tasking skills, both of which women are good at
Who has inspired you in your career? Having strong managers and mentors. Make sure to align yourself with people that inspire you and who will promote your career development
Vanessa is open to engaging further via: Speaking at a high school
If you'd like to enquire more, please fill out the form below with the subject name: "Vanessa Weedon" and we'll pass your message on.
