This Women in Construction Week, we at SBCSG are shining a spotlight on the women at one of our member companies, MSG Labour & Plant Ltd, including Gemma – who play vital roles in construction, particularly in operations, helping ensure projects run smoothly and efficiently. Across Swansea and the surrounding region, our members are creating workplaces where women feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to build long-term careers.
Gemma’s journey into construction is not one she had originally planned. She spent nearly ten years working as a solicitor in private practice before stepping into the construction industry in 2023. The opportunity arose when her husband, Liam, purchased MSG Labour & Plant Ltd and became sole director. As the business grew, Liam focused on site delivery, leaving a gap in operations and business management. Recognising where she could add value – and seeking a better balance for family life with two young children – Gemma joined the company to strengthen its operational framework.
Since then, she has developed an affection for the industry. Gemma enjoys the problem-solving aspects and the variety of each day. Her legal background has supported her transition into operations, particularly in compliance, structure, and risk management, while she has also learned the technical and commercial side of construction on the job.
Today, as Head of Operations, Gemma oversees MSG’s operational and business framework. This includes compliance, accreditations, business development, systems, and supporting the team to ensure projects run smoothly. Much of her work is behind the scenes – creating a strong foundation so site teams can focus on delivering high-quality work. She is particularly focused on maintaining standards, expanding the company’s accreditation portfolio, and increasing its social value impact.
Key milestones in Gemma’s career include stepping away from law into a completely new industry, learning to work professionally alongside her husband, and building confidence in the construction sector. She has been supported by a network of industry professionals who have offered guidance, introductions, and advice, helping her navigate a new field successfully.
Gemma emphasises the importance of more women entering construction. With so many roles beyond traditional perceptions of the industry, women bring fresh perspectives and strengthen projects, site teams, and operational processes. Seeing women succeed in diverse roles also helps make the industry feel more accessible and welcoming to the next generation.
For women considering a career in construction, Gemma encourages confidence in transferable skills, openness to learning, building relationships, and not being afraid to step into opportunities where they can add value. Her experience demonstrates that construction offers rewarding career paths for women at all levels, from operations to leadership.
Stories like Gemma’s show the difference women make in construction and the variety of pathways available. As we mark Women in Construction Week, we celebrate the talent shaping the industry and hope to inspire more women to see construction as a place for growth, opportunity, and long-term success.