Jeanette Forbes

Role: CEO, PCL Group

What does PCL Group specialise in?

In providing IT, cabling and digital video conferencing solutions globally to all industry sectors including, offshore, marine, commercial, industrial and renewables.

Name one thing most people won't know about the company

The one thing that most people won't know about the company is that we have recently moved office and purchased a beautiful Georgian building in Golden Square, right in the centre of Aberdeen City.

How would you summarise your leadership style?

I would summarise my leadership style as being tough but fair. I work in an industry that is extremely fast moving so waiting or being patient for weeks for something to be done is not in my nature or my leadership style.

Does the industry have a diversity problem and, if so, why does this matter?

Yes, our industry does have a diversity problem and has had this since I started PCL Group in 2000 over 22 years ago. We need to recognise that irrespective of gender if the person in question can do the job, then diversity should not be seen as a "cop out" for employers, to pay them less or treat that person any differently to a male employee.

Our sector now needs to start and change parameters around working

Do you feel the outlook for women in the industry has changed at all in the last four years?

Yes, I do feel the outlook for women in the industry has changed in the last four years. I do see more women choosing technology as a career path and I also see some outstanding women making their mark in the digital sector. There will be a significant transition period as we move more towards net zero and I see this as a huge opportunity for more women to enter sectors that they had considered but were unsure where to start looking. Digital capability will provide more onshore opportunities than ever before with technology right at the core of innovation so let's embrace every opportunity and get after that "dream job" we have always wanted.

Name one thing companies in our sector should do differently to ensure they are attracting, retaining, and promoting more female staff?

Women understand how hard it is to juggle career and home life balance rather than work life balance. Our sector now needs to start and change parameters around working. The pandemic forced the provision of the "hybrid model" that permits more family friendly working conditions for women wanting to enter or return to, the working environment. The old way of working is gone; we now must create a "great place to work" environment to attract the right talent. Basing your career move on salary is the old way of thinking; employees now want benefits and facilities around their own needs and requirements and if you, as an employer, don't move with the times, your staff will make that decision for you with their feet.