Jade’s construction career takes flight after leaving RAF
09 March 2022
Fast-climbing Jade Simmons is pleased to see more women on construction sites – and says everyone gets treated equally as long as they demonstrate respect and a good attitude.
Jade, 37, has done exceptionally well since joining Persimmon as Trainee Site Manager in 2014.
It didn’t take her long to work through the ranks to Assistant Site Manager, then Site Manager, Acting Contracts Manager and now, as of January this year, permanent Contracts Manager.
Today she oversees four sites across South Wales – East Haven in Barry, The Parish @ Llanilltern Village in Creigiau, St Edeyrns Village in Cardiff and Willow Court in Abergavenny.
As Contracts Manager, Jade assists the Site Managers with their day-to-day requirements, as well as overseeing staffing, contractors and material supplies.
“It’s been a massive learning curve,” said Jade, who lives in Blaenllechau in the Rhondda.
“There are always problems requiring solutions, whether that is staff shortages or material delays.
“I was in the RAF for five years working in logistics so that certainly helped, along with my degree in sustainable construction and surveying.
“Persimmon has been very supportive right from the off and has encouraged me to progress with my career. I really appreciate that.
“I want to keep progressing, with the next aim of being Head of Construction one day.”
Speaking of being a woman in a traditionally male dominated industry, Jade said: “There are more women on site than when I started, whether that’s ground workers, carpenters or in managerial roles.
“It’s great to see and I hope it continues to increase. The industry is changing and I feel women are really welcomed into it and appreciated.
“It’s not your average day job and it’s not for everyone, but it’s great that it’s another viable career available to women.
“How you deal with people is far more important than gender. It’s about treating people with fairness and respect. Please and thank you goes a long way.”
Persimmon this week marked International Women’s Day by launching its Target 50 initiative.
Target 50 sets an ambition for Persimmon to recruit 50 female apprentices or technical trainees into construction-related roles across Great Britain this year. The initiative forms part of Persimmon’s 50th anniversary celebrations and supports its commitment to building and retaining a more diverse workforce.
