Women In Construction Week: Q&A With Jade Brigham

To mark Women In Construction Week 2026, we're proud to be shining a spotlight on the talented women helping to shape the future of Homes by Carlton.

In this Q&A, Jade Brigham, Business Support Executive, shares insight into her varied role, her career journey, and what this year’s theme “Level Up, Build Strong” means to her.

Q. Can you tell us about your role at Homes by Carlton and what a typical day looks like?

As Business Support Executive, I support a wide range of departments across the business, including technical, construction, sales, marketing and our site teams. I work closely with all areas of the company, and where my time is focused often depends on the stage a site is at.

No two days are ever the same — which is something I really enjoy about the role. One day I may be supporting the site and technical teams in preparing plots for their CML, and the next I could be organising and ordering client extras for new homeowners or assisting with the set-up of a new site, such as coordinating utilities.

Although my role is largely behind the scenes, it involves building strong working relationships with both internal teams and external subcontractors. The role naturally blurs across departments, allowing me to step into different responsibilities as business needs change — helping to keep everything running smoothly.

Q. What has your career path looked like so far, and where there any pivotal moments along the way?

My first role was with a PAT testing company, where I quickly found myself working across several areas of the business, including accounts, administration and scheduling. That early exposure showed me how valuable it is to build a broad understanding of how a business operates, rather than working within a single, narrow role.

I’ve carried that mindset throughout my career, which has made me adaptable and comfortable learning new skills. Before joining Homes by Carlton, I had never worked in the construction industry, but I was excited by the opportunity to learn something completely new while applying the skill set I had developed over the years.

With the support and guidance of my colleagues, I’ve developed my knowledge quickly and grown in confidence and capability. As the business continues to grow, my role evolves too — and I really enjoy taking on new projects and responsibilities along the way.

Q. What are the key skills you use most in your role?

Communication is essential, especially when working across multiple departments. Building strong relationships and being clear and organised helps ensure everything runs efficiently.

Administration, problem-solving and attention to detail are also key. Different projects often require focus at different times to ensure targets and completion dates are met, so prioritising my workload is a big part of the role.

Adaptability is another important skill. Being able to respond quickly to changing priorities while maintaining a high level of organisation and accuracy is crucial in a fast-paced environment like housebuilding.

l-r: Jade Brigham and Beth Gregory (Customer Care Coordinator at Homes by Carlton).

Q. What's the most rewarding part of your job?

On a personal level, the most rewarding part of my job is working as part of a supportive team. We’re a small but mighty group, and that sense of teamwork is very much the backbone of what we do. Everyone is willing to step in and support one another when needed, and it’s reassuring to know that support works both ways.

I also find it incredibly rewarding to see a development fully completed and to be able to look back at what has been achieved through everyone’s combined efforts.

Q. What has been a standout moment in your career so far?

Rather than a single standout project, I’m most proud of how far I’ve come since joining the business with no prior experience in the construction industry.

Over the past four years, I’ve built up a strong understanding of how the business operates across multiple departments and stages of a development. Through learning on the job and with the support of my colleagues, I’ve gained the confidence to take on a wide range of responsibilities and new projects.

Being trusted to support multiple departments and adapt to changing business needs is something I’m particularly proud of. It reflects both my personal development and the supportive culture within the company.

Q. What advice would you give to women considering a career in construction or housebuilding?

Although construction is often seen as a male-dominated industry, I believe the qualities an individual brings matter far more than gender.

Confidence, communication, adaptability and a willingness to learn are key. My advice would be to step up, offer your help and support where you can — but don’t be afraid to ask for it too. Take opportunities when they’re offered. Progression often comes from being open to learning and growth.

Q. The theme for this year’s Women in Construction Week is “Level Up, Build Strong” — what does this mean to you?

“Level Up, Build Strong” represents empowerment, progression and recognition.

To me, Women in Construction Week is about encouraging women to develop their careers, recognising the value women bring to the industry and celebrating the diverse roles they hold.

It’s an opportunity to highlight the strength, resilience and contribution of women across construction and housebuilding — and to continue building an industry where growth, confidence and opportunity are supported for everyone.

Jade’s journey is a great example of how the many moving parts behind the scenes are just as vital as the activity on site. Her adaptability, attention to detail and team-first mindset help ensure every development runs smoothly from start to finish.