To celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, we spotlight four accomplished women at Maynard Marks. Through their cultivated expertise, Ulrickë Gibbs, Grace Gao, Melissa Taylor and Jade Kemp share their insights, milestones, and advice for the next generation of women in construction.
Ulrickë Gibbs - Building Surveyor
Describe your role at Maynard Marks
I conduct detailed investigations and provide comprehensive reports on a range of building-related matters. My work includes assessing the condition of buildings, preparing scopes of work for remediation and reinstatement projects, and providing expert advice.
What inspired you to work in building surveying?
I began my career in architecture, drawn to its blend of problem-solving and technology to create functional, tangible spaces. Over time, my focus shifted to building surveying – a dynamic field which offers diverse challenges and serves a wide range of clients.
Can you speak to a defining moment or milestone in your career so far?
My building surveying career commenced during major weather events in New Zealand in 2023, which offered a steep but comprehensive learning curve as I assessed flood-damaged properties in Auckland and Hawke’s Bay. Completing my Diploma in Building Surveying was a key milestone, leading me to present a diploma module and contribute to the industry education I’m passionate about.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the industry?
With only 15.8% of the construction industry workforce being women and just 6% of NZIBS Registered Building Surveyors, there is still plenty of room for diverse perspectives in the field. I would advise seeking a supportive mentor and recognising the unique perspective you offer.
Grace Gao - Quantity Surveyor, Associate
Describe your role at Maynard Marks
I am responsible for managing the costs and contracts associated with construction projects, ensuring projects stay on track, within budget and meet quality standards. I also assess risks, prepare cost estimates, and provide cost-saving advice to clients.
What inspired you to work in Quantity Surveying?
I am inspired by the variety of work the industry offers. My role has offered fantastic career progression to date and the chance to work on large-scale projects.
Can you speak to a defining moment in your career so far?
A defining moment in my career has been transitioning between consultancy and contractor quantity surveyor roles. This shift broadened my expertise across the full project lifecycle, enhancing my adaptability and understanding of both strategic planning and on-site execution.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the industry?
Whilst the construction industry is becoming more inclusive, women remain underrepresented. On many of my projects, I’m often the only woman in site meetings, so it’s crucial to be confident in your skills, stay curious, and never stop learning.
Melissa Taylor – People & Capability Manager, Associate Director
Describe your role at Maynard Marks
As People Capability Manager, I design strategies to enhance employee learning and development, explore insights, and cultivate a culture that drives success. I also manage administration and governance functions.
What inspired you to work in the construction industry?
I was drawn to the construction industry because I enjoy seeing buildings take shape and come to life. I’m really enjoying witnessing the meaningful impact our team at Maynard Marks has on the buildings that surround us, and on the varied communities that occupy them.
Can you speak to a defining moment in your career so far?
Developing Well2Do, Maynard Marks' wellbeing program, and receiving a Silver Award at the Southern Cross Wayfinders Awards in 2023 was a significant milestone for me. The opportunity to enhance employee experience and contribute to the people and culture profession is incredibly rewarding.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the industry?
Believe in your abilities and embrace every learning opportunity. The construction industry requires diverse perspectives, and your unique skills and insights will play a key role in its future success.
Jade Kemp - Architectural Designer, Associate
Describe your role at Maynard Marks
I’m an architectural designer at Maynard Marks, specialising in remediation projects, with a background in new-build residential and renovation design. I’m involved in all stages of a project, from the initial brief and scope through to building consent and on-site construction monitoring, depending on the project.
What inspired you to work in the construction industry?
My passion for the built environment led me to study architecture, and through collaborating with building surveyors, I developed an interest in the complexities of remediation design. This ultimately inspired me to pursue becoming a registered building surveyor as well.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in the industry?
If it interests you, go for it! The construction and architecture industries offer a wide range of career paths, and there are amazing opportunities for those who are motivated and passionate.
