Leading from the Front: Women in Facilities Management

Facilities management has traditionally been seen as a technical, male-dominated industry. But as the sector evolves, leadership is increasingly defined not by background or title, but by judgement, capability and the ability to bring people, buildings and performance together.

Across Pareto and Sowga, Charlotte Rhodes, Rachael Neville, Chloe Walker and Olena Turbina represent this shift in practice.

Chloe Walker Olena Turbina Charlotte Rhodes Rachael Neville

Charlotte Rhodes

Account Manager, Pareto FM

Charlotte joined Pareto in 2021 as the company’s first Helpdesk Administrator. Through a series of operational roles she progressed to Account Manager and now leads a complex estate spanning 16 properties across the UK.

Charlotte manages a diverse portfolio where compliance, tenant experience and operational delivery must work together. Her structured approach to financial management, reporting and day-to-day oversight has strengthened transparency and reinforced the client relationship. This consistency and attention to detail helped support the renewal of the partnership through a new five-year contract. Beyond her immediate role, Charlotte contributes to the wider workplace and industry community. She is an alumna of the Tomorrow Meets Today mentor programme and has since been invited to speak at secondary schools on leadership and women in the workplace, helping shape future talent pipelines.

“Charlotte has a rare ability to truly listen and understand people, then act with speed, clarity and honesty.”

Rachael Neville

Contract Manager, Sowga

Rachael began her career as an electrician through a traditional apprenticeship route before progressing into engineering and leadership roles.

Today she manages facilities for a critical financial services environment where precision, reliability and trust are essential. Over the past year she has led several complex engineering projects in live settings, coordinating planning, contractors and stakeholders to ensure work was delivered safely without disruption to the client’s operations.

Rachael is also a long-standing advocate for women in engineering, As a former Women in Construction ambassador, she represented the profession nationally through schools and media appearances and speaking engagements including at the House of Commons

“Rachael doesn’t just lead contracts, she leads change.”

Chloe Walker

Account Manager, Pareto FM

Chloe leads facilities management delivery for ZSL London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo, where estates management directly supports global conservation work.

One of her most recent achievements involved preparing a bio-secure environment to support the relocation of endangered Darwin frogs. Working alongside scientists, estates teams and operational staff, Chloe coordinated rapid modifications to an existing space so the programme could proceed safely.

The outcome was the successful protection of 53 frogs, with dozens of froglets now born within the controlled environment created by the team.

Chloe exemplifies the evolving role of the modern workplace leader. She delivers operational resilience, drives conservation impact, champions inclusion and creates environments where people feel supported and empowered.

Her leadership has strengthened a flagship cultural institution, supported global conservation efforts and shaped a more inclusive workplace culture.

“Chloe has a rare ability to bring calm, clarity and momentum, even in the most complex environments.”

Olena Turbina

Contract Manager, Sowga

Olena entered facilities management without a technical background and built her career through persistence, curiosity and hands-on experience.

Beginning as Contract Support, she progressed quickly and today leads a £2 million portfolio, having mobilised multiple new-build estates and established the systems and teams required to operate them successfully.

In an industry where female representation remains disproportionately low, Olena’s journey from Contract Support to leading a major portfolio is significant. She represents progression through capability, commitment and courage, demonstrating that technical leadership can be built through experience, learning and determination.

“Olena didn’t come from a technical background, she earned her credibility through hard work, curiosity and determination.”