International Women’s Day 2026
This International Women’s Day, the Richborough team is proud to support the theme of Give to Gain – recognising the women who have invested in us, championed us and helped shape our careers.
Across our business, our female colleagues have been sharing shout-outs to women who have inspired, supported and guided them professionally. It’s a simple but powerful way to acknowledge the impact that mentorship, leadership and allyship can have.
Faith Byrne, our Business Finance Manager has namechecked Gayle Bowen, her former Finance Director, who played a pivotal role in her development. Faith says: “Gayle exemplifies the kind of leadership that leaves a lasting impact – professionally and personally. She set the standard for integrity, resilience and ambition and showed me what strong female leadership in finance truly looks like.”
Melissa Slaney Smith, our Senior Disposal Manager gave a shout-out to Hannah Deverell, her Disposals Director at Richborough, recognising the guidance and encouragement she has received from her. “Hannah is always championing other women within the industry through her role in Women in Property (previously Chair). Hannah is a great role model for other women, she proves you can achieve success at the same time as being a kind, genuine, caring person.”
Katherine Titley our South West Regional Director said “I’d like to acknowledge the impact Fiona Goldsmith, Chair of MJ Gleeson has had on my career. I have been incredibly lucky to benefit from Fiona’s mentorship; her time shared and advice given, continue to inspire me.”
Alanna Mahoney, Senior Land and Planning Manager, recognised Louisa Ward, Associate Director at CBRE saying “I first met Louisa at houseparty in 2013 and our paths crossed again five years later at a networking event. I have always been inspired by the sheer joy she brings to life and the genuine passion she has for the planning and development industry. She has a gift for encouraging others around her and I have been lucky enough to learn so much from her over the years.”
Kirren Channa, Urban Designer gave her shout out to her Auntie, Bal Aujla. She said: “Bal has worked incredibly hard in her career to become Chief Finance and Operations Officer at Royal Mail. Her determination, professionalism and commitment to her work is inspirational, and this makes her a fantastic mentor. Bal embodies ‘work hard, play hard’, so as far as her commitment to her work is highly recognisable, she is also the life of the party! – Goals!”
Briony Stenhouse, Planning Delivery Manager also chose to shout out one of her colleagues, our very own Charlotte Lewis who is Richborough’s Group Design Director saying: “Charlotte is one of the most talented and passionate people I have come across in my career and to be able to shine the way she does in such a male dominated industry is truly inspirational.”
Karuna Bhatia, People and HR Business Partner said “Emma Fardell’s dedication and commitment to Richborough is truly inspiring! She wears many hats and provides great leadership in the business. She has supported me through the ‘people’ journey and is always a great support.”
Katie Saunders, Regional Manager, recognised Sarah Charles, her first employer saying: “Sarah is an exceptional CEO and founder of multiple successful businesses; her unwavering drive and genuine passion for success make her not only a true inspiration but a standout role model for women in business.”
Charlotte Gilham, Senior Technical Coordinator highlighted her friend, Megan Keeling and said: “Megan’s determination and passion for her work as an Assistant Site Manager is genuinely inspiring. Seeing her develop in her role and build her place in a predominantly male industry is a real reminder of what commitment and confidence can achieve.”
Hannah Deverell, Disposals Director said: “In my experience in the property sector, women in senior roles have often been a rarity, which is why organisations like Women in Property have inspired such a huge part of my personal and professional development. It is therefore particularly encouraging to work at Richborough, where there is a strong presence of senior, accomplished and ambitious women in leadership roles and where younger talent is nurtured and supported. I’m proud to work alongside so many inspiring women who contribute so much to the business and to my own development.”
International Women’s Day is an important moment to reflect on progress – and on the work still to be done. The UK property sector remains male-dominated. Industry research from the British Property Federation and Property Week indicates that women represent roughly one third of the UK property workforce, with significantly lower representation at senior leadership level.
These figures highlight why visibility, mentorship and active support matter. At Richborough, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where talent thrives regardless of gender. Recognising the women who have helped us grow is one small but meaningful part of that commitment.