Emma Lampard | Sustainability Lead | Fulkers Bailey Russell
Emma Lampard, Sustainability Lead at Fulkers Bailey Russell (Fulkers), is setting an example for the construction industry by leading the charge in implementing sustainable practices across the company’s projects. Her journey into the construction industry was driven by a love for challenges and a passion for making a positive impact on the built environment. Over her seven years at Fulkers, Emma has played a crucial role in the company’s achievement of B Corp certification and EcoVadis Silver Rating, both of which underscore Fulkers’ commitment to sustainable and ethical business practices. At EliteX, we are proud to have Emma Lampard as part of the edition: Impactful Women in Construction, 2024.
‘Combined with Fulkers’ solutions-based, joined-up approach that caters to clients investing in UK national and international property and construction, Emma’s expertise in project management and sustainability has the room to shine.’ Her transition into the role of Sustainability Lead was a natural progression, allowing her to merge her project management skills with her passion for sustainability. Emma takes pride in working across the entire lifecycle of a project, from design to completion, and finds deep fulfilment in contributing to the creation of something lasting and environmentally responsible.
“The thrill of managing diverse projects in such a fast-paced environment was something I found incredibly rewarding.”
Emma’s journey in the construction industry began as a Trainee Project Manager at a global engineering, management, and development consultancy. This role provided her with a solid foundation in the industry, allowing her to immerse herself in the complexities of large-scale projects from the outset. Emma quickly took on several key roles, including Project Sustainability and Environment Coordinator, Document Controller, Risk Manager, and Procurement Manager. These roles taught her the importance of mastering individual responsibilities, which collectively contribute to the success of a project. Emma’s early experiences instilled in her a strong foundation in meticulous planning, effective communication, and proactive risk management—all critical elements in delivering projects on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and sustainability.
One of Emma’s proudest achievements at Fulkers was managing the company’s B Corp accreditation process, a significant milestone in her career. This project provided her with a unique opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of colleagues, many of whom she wouldn’t ordinarily work with. The collective effort not only validated Fulkers long-standing commitment to sustainability and social responsibility but also fostered personal and professional development across disciplines. Emma found it particularly inspiring to work alongside a predominantly female team, united by their shared passion for sustainability and positive change. The B Corp accreditation project was more than just a certification process; it was a transformative experience that shaped the future direction of Fulkers and the individual journeys of those involved.
Emma’s journey in the construction industry has not been without challenges, particularly as a young woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. Starting her career in her early 20s, Emma quickly realised that whilst progress had been made, there were still significant obstacles to overcome. One of the main challenges she faced was how she was sometimes spoken to or perceived because of her age and gender. There were moments when it was clear that others underestimated her capabilities or didn’t take her contributions as seriously as they might have if she were older or male. However, these experiences only fuelled Emma’s determination to succeed. She became stronger and more resilient, knowing that her skills, knowledge, and work ethic—not her gender or age—should define her success. Instead of letting these challenges discourage her, Emma used them as motivation to prove that she belonged in the industry and could excel.
“Overcoming challenges has not only shaped my career but also reinforced my commitment to paving the way for future generations of women in construction.”
Emma is proud to be part of an industry that is evolving and continues to advocate for a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone. Emma’s resilience and determination have made her a role model for other women in the industry, showing them that it is possible to succeed and thrive in construction, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
“Prioritising my mental health and well-being is essential not just for my happiness, but also for my effectiveness in my role.”
Balancing the demands of a career in construction with personal life is another aspect of Emma’s journey that she has navigated with care and intention. She has developed a routine that allows her to start each day with something positive for herself, whether it’s exercising, reading with a coffee, or simply enjoying a quiet moment. This routine ensures that Emma has done something beneficial for her well-being before starting her workday. She also makes sure to include something to look forward to each day, such as a coffee with a friend, a post-work walk, or an exercise class. This approach to work-life balance is supported by Fulkers, who places trust in their employees to manage their own workload and hours efficiently. The company’s agile working policy, built on mutual trust and respect, gives Emma the freedom to choose the hours she works and where she completes her work. Over time, she has learned that allowing herself this personal space enhances her productivity and focus during the workday. Prioritising her mental health and well-being is essential not just for her happiness but also for her effectiveness in her role.
Emma’s journey in construction offers valuable insights for young women considering a career in the industry. Her advice to them is to embrace the endless opportunities that construction offers. While the industry is challenging, it is precisely through these challenges that significant personal and professional growth can be achieved. The construction industry is evolving, and there is incredible potential for women to make a meaningful impact. Emma is encouraged by the strong support network among women in the industry, noting that at Fulkers, there are a large number of women in various roles. This is no longer a male-dominated industry; women are in high positions across the board, which is a great sign of change and progress.
Seeing women in leadership roles is not only inspiring but also a clear indicator that the construction industry is moving in the right direction. Emma believes that if young women are passionate and ready to grow, construction is a field where they can truly thrive. Her journey serves as a testament to the possibilities that exist for women in construction and the positive impact they can make on the industry. Emma Lampard’s story is one of perseverance, determination, and a deep commitment to sustainability, and it offers inspiration to anyone looking to make a difference in the built environment.
