Rachel has established herself as a role model for women in the construction industry. In March 2022, she completed her year as National Chair for Women in Property. ‘Stand Tall’ is her mantra – it’s about embracing any challenge, large or small, and supporting others to step outside of their comfort zones.

Back in the office, Rachel is a board director and applies her construction industry knowledge to her role as Director of Partnerships in our Winning Work team. An architect at heart, Rachel has been an outward facing personality for us since joining as a University of Bath student in 2000.

Who is your biggest career influence?

My Dad, an electrician by trade, he was my role model and inspired me to get into the industry. When I was two I climbed up a ladder to reach him on the roof of our house and ever since then he said I should be in construction.

Interesting fact that no one knows about you?

I’m passionate about steam trains! When I was younger, my grandad bought me some shares in West Somerset Railway and going on steam trains keeps alive my memory of him. I’m also a strong believer in health and wellbeing. Yoga has been a love of mine for around 18 years. If I could, then I would spend my whole day upside down in a handstand.

Favourite podcast?

Before sitting down at my computer, I find it helpful to start each day with a walk, it’s a perfect opportunity to get some fresh air and listen to some great podcasts. Power Hour with Adrienne Herbert has been a huge inspiration. It’s all about harnessing the first hour of your day to get the best out of yourself, physically and mentally. It is upbeat, energising and has given me lots of wonderful ideas to help motivate myself and others during lockdown.

What did you learn from your year as National Chair of Women in Property 2021/22?

Relationships are everything. For 12 months, I worked closely with Women in Property’s executive team, branch chairs and members. Mutual support is what got us all through a difficult year. I believe by broadening our networks and reaching out to partners – new and old – we can work together to achieve a more sustainable future, in the broadest sense. A sustainable community that thrives on equity, compassion and a little bit of courage can do amazing things.

More on Rachel’s year standing tall for Women in Property here

Podcasts:

Listen to Stand Tall with Rachel Bell for conversations with people blazing a trail across property, architecture, engineering and construction.

Industry Bodies:
  • ARB
  • RIBA
  • Women in Property, National Chair 2021/22 
  • Women in Property, South West Chair 2017/18 
  • Former LandAid SW board member
Awards:
  • Shortlisted for Architect of the Year 2014
  • Best Female Mentor 2018, Women in Engineering and Construction Awards (Finalist)
  • Role model for UKCW 2018
  • Property Personality of the Year 2018, Insider South West
  • Mentor of the Year 2019, Hargreaves Lansdown South West Mentoring Awards
  • Property Week RESI Trailblazer 2019
  • Diversity Champion of the Year 2021, Insider South West

Related posts