With International Women's Day fast approaching, we want to take the time to celebrate the incredible leadership of our very own Managing Director, Gemma Quinn Richards, and Operations Director, Hayley Exley.
These two are not only driving the success of our business, but are also breaking barriers and leading the way for women in the construction industry. Their leadership, vision, and dedication are creating a lasting impact, and whilst their achievements are far too long to list in any one article, we’ll give a little taster of their magic.
Hayley Exley: Ductbusters Operations Director, And People-Process Queen.
As our Operations Director, Hayley has been a driving force behind Ductbusters’ success over the past five years. Her leadership has reshaped the company from the inside out, focusing on both process and people to ensure sustained growth and a strong team.
When Hayley first joined Ductbusters, her vision was clear: she wanted to create a team that was not only efficient but empowered, with an environment where every individual felt supported to grow, learn, and advance in their career. Five years later, we can say with confidence that she has achieved this and more. Under Hayley’s leadership, we have undergone a complete internal restructure. She’s introduced process-driven systems that have elevated the company’s operational efficiency, helping us scale while maintaining the highest standards.
But Hayley’s leadership is about more than just structure – it’s about the people. While she’s made significant strides in improving the company’s internal systems, she’s equally focused on developing the potential of every team member. She believes in empowering people to succeed by giving them the resources, opportunities, and trust they need. By fostering a culture of learning and advancement, she has helped her team members not only meet but exceed their professional goals.
As Hayley puts it, “In the past five years, there has been a lot of positive change, and I now have a team that I truly count on and trust to deliver.” This trust-driven approach is the backbone of Hayley’s leadership, and it’s this sense of mutual respect and empowerment that drives Ductbusters forward. Hayley’s transformation of the company isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about creating a positive, inclusive work environment that encourages growth, development, and success.
Her approach to leadership has raised the bar for our standards – setting a benchmark for the industry, and she’s done so with a clear focus on people. Hayley is living proof that when you lead with empathy, dedication, and trust, the results are not just good for business but for the entire industry. She is helping to pave the way for more women to step into leadership roles within construction, showing that women can excel not just in operational roles, but in shaping the future of the industry itself.
Gemma Quinn Richards: A Visionary Leader With Heart
When it comes to leading a company with vision, determination, and heart, Gemma Quinn Richards is a shining example of what’s possible. As our Managing Director, Gemma has been a driving force behind Ductbusters' continued success, with her leadership setting the tone for the entire company. She has steered the business through both challenges and successes, always leading with a focus on family values, trust, and team cohesion.
Gemma’s leadership style is a unique blend of strategic thinking, compassion, and a willingness to go the extra mile for her customers and team. Gemma’s focus on people and the overall company culture is what makes Ductbusters truly stand out. She believes in the power of teamwork and has cultivated a group of passionate, skilled individuals who share in the company’s vision.
What makes Gemma’s leadership even more inspiring is her dedication to lifting others up. She’s always looking for ways to create opportunities for her team to develop and advance. This people-centric approach is evident in everything she does – from being hands-on in mentoring staff to celebrating the achievements of those around her. She doesn’t just lead with a vision for the future of Ductbusters; she makes sure that every individual on her team has the tools and support they need to thrive and make their own mark.
While Gemma’s achievements as Managing Director are impressive, it’s her ability to inspire and lead with that truly makes her stand out. She’s a powerful example of how women in leadership can break barriers in a male dominated industry.
Leading the Way for Women in Construction
As women in leadership roles, both Gemma and Hayley are challenging the norms of the construction industry. They are proving that women can not only succeed in traditionally male-dominated fields but excel and lead with vision, passion, and authenticity.
The construction industry has long been seen as a male-dominated field, but these two women are showing the world that leadership in construction is not about gender – it’s about vision, drive, and a commitment to improving industry standards. Gemma and Hayley are paving the way for future generations of women to follow in their footsteps, and their leadership is not only driving Ductbusters forward, but also helping to inspire other women to consider roles in construction.
This International Women's Day, we want to celebrate Gemma and Hayley for everything they have accomplished and continue to achieve. Their leadership is a shining example of what’s possible when you combine hard work, vision, and a passion for people. Here's to them, and to all the women who are shaping the future of construction, leadership, and beyond.
Thank you, Gemma and Hayley, for your tireless commitment to our team, to the industry, and to making the world of construction a more inclusive, empowered space for women.
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