Actavo Celebrates Female-led Network Build Team on International Women’s Day

To mark International Women’s Day, Actavo, a leading network design and build partner to the telecoms sector, is highlighting the work and leadership of the female-led team on its Network Build contract with SIRO.

In October 2021, Actavo secured this three-year contract extension, which is being delivered by the company’s Network and In-Home Division. Actavo is the primary contractor for the nationwide installation of fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) by SIRO and is also contracted to provide a FTTH network build program. This is being delivered by a female-led team, which is very unusual in this sector.

Rachel Gibson, Network Delivery Manager, Actavo said: “I am very proud to lead the Actavo team working on the SIRO contract. As part of my role, I have overall responsibility for the planning, programming, performance, and delivery of the SIRO works project. Currently, women who are underrepresented within the sector need support from inside of the industry. The more examples we can provide, the more likely it will be that others are attracted to the sector and establish careers within it. Each day is fast-paced, variable and requires an abundance of multi-tasking and problem solving. Being in the minority within the industry creates an environment for women to set themselves apart and advance their careers in multiple ways including management, finance, and skilled trades. I am honoured to not only lead by example but also work with women in other senior roles on this project.”

I am very proud to lead the Actavo team working on the SIRO contract. As part of my role, I have overall responsibility for the planning, programming, performance, and delivery of the SIRO works project.

Rachel Gibson

Network Delivery Manager

Michelle Campbell, Deputy Operations Manager, Actavo said: “My role as deputy operations manager across the Drops & Build Projects entails the management of the field operations, overseeing that quality is maintained at the highest possible standards and driving best practice processes for the client. The role itself is diverse and demands adaptability and smart prioritisation of workloads daily."

Brian Kelly, Group Chief Executive Officer, Actavo said: “Actavo is committed to building workplaces that reflect all of our society, as part of our overall commitment to diversity and inclusivity. While we operate in a traditionally male- dominated sector, we are seeing more and more experienced female candidates applying for roles. The current work being carried out on the SIRO project is excellent and demonstrates both efficient project management capability and flexibility to mobilise rapidly in diverse locations. Our team continues to work diligently to deliver a best-in-class service on this project, and also displays Actavo’s commitment to safety, quality and a positive customer experience.”

Actavo is committed to building workplaces that reflect all of our society, as part of our overall commitment to diversity and inclusivity.

Brian Kelly

Group CEO

As part of the contract extension, Actavo has deployed a workforce to provide fibre-to-the-home installation services, including field engineers, civil engineering, back-office staff and sub-contractors. As a Build Contractor, Actavo has rolled out FTTH services on behalf of SIRO in several towns, including Dundalk, Cavan, Mullingar, Newbridge, Naas, Kildare Town, Athy, Navan and Arklow.

Last year, Actavo signed up to Business in The Community Ireland’s ‘Elevate Pledge’ to bolster its commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Under the Pledge, Actavo is taking tangible action to ensure the recruitment and retention of diverse talent, and is increasing its ambition on the equality, diversity and inclusivity agenda.

To mark International Women’s Day, Actavo carried out interviews with three female SIRO team members about their roles, challenges facing women in this sector and how to overcome those challenges – you can read the full blog post below.