5 minutes with … Elle Cass at SLR Consulting

Why did you choose construction as a career?

I have always been fascinated by how development shapes the way we live, work and interact with our environment. A geography lecturer once described development not just as buildings, but as a force for global and social impact – and that really stuck with me.

I turned down a guaranteed advertising job in London after university, realising I wanted to be part of something more tangible. Construction, especially in the private sector, offers that chance to drive meaningful change.

What are you most proud of in your career to date?

Achieving gender parity in my team has been a huge highlight. It is something I have worked hard to create – an inclusive and balanced environment where everyone can thrive.

I was also honoured to be named an RTPI Woman of Influence and, more broadly, championing the profession and helping to raise its profile as a fulfilling career path.

What has been the biggest challenge of your career so far?

At my first interview, I was asked: “How will you do this job as a woman?” It was a seminal moment that could have made me reconsider construction – but instead it fuelled my determination to drive change from within.

While the industry has progressed, bias still exists, albeit more subtly. It is frustrating that, 30 years on, in many areas parity remains a goal rather than a reality – but the growing number of voices championing diversity gives me real hope for lasting change.

If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?

I would take elected representatives out of the formal planning decision-making process – or at the very least, ensure they receive more comprehensive training. Politics can often distort decisions. A vocal minority can end up having disproportionate influence, while the silent majority – the people who need homes, infrastructure, schools – can go unheard.

What’s the most helpful advice you’ve been given?

My first boss once told me, “If you don’t know the answer, wing it.” Maybe not the most practical advice! (I think he said it in jest). But it taught me not to be afraid in high-pressure situations, like standing in front of an inspector.

Confidence, even when you don’t have all the answers, goes a long way – as does thorough preparation!

What’s your favourite building in the world?

The Empire State Building. That art deco elegance, the scale, the legacy – it’s a real icon of its time and still stands as a symbol of ambition and design excellence.

Which famous building do you most dislike?

This made me pause, as I can appreciate most buildings for their intent or history. But I would choose Park Hill in Sheffield – the iconic brutalist housing estate which was once a symbol of innovation, but later derelict and avoided. However, rather than demolish it, Urban Splash has impressively reimagined Park Hill into what is today one of the city’s most desirable places to live. It is a great example of how thoughtful reconsideration can transform a derelict eyesore on the city skyline into a vibrant, architecturally celebrated community, and at the same time saving an enormous volume of embedded carbon through its transformation.

Which famous building do you wish you had worked on?

The new World Trade Center. The design is breathtaking – a true feat of engineering and architecture. But it is also deeply symbolic. It gives people pride, hope and a sense of resilience. I would have loved to be part of something so meaningful.

What one piece of advice would you give someone starting out in your profession?

Start building your network from day one. Relationships matter: this industry is all about collaboration, trust and shared knowledge.

And, when you are offered opportunities by people further ahead in their careers, take them. Back yourself.

Who do you most admire in the construction industry?

Crikey, that’s a tough one… Eleanor Deeley is a powerful advocate for SME builders in the housing and care sectors, with a real knack for getting key property issues heard across national media and industry platforms.

I am also a big supporter of the work Renee Preston is doing with Construction for Women. Initiatives like this are not only vital for improving gender balance but could also have a real impact on addressing the industry’s labour shortages.

What’s it like being you, and doing your job?

No two days are the same. One minute I am travelling for meetings, the next I am diving into planning strategy or helping to untangle a tricky issue on a project.

I meet people from all walks of life, and the best days are when we solve problems together, using collective insight to unlock solutions to real-world challenges.

Do you have a life philosophy?

The harder you try, the luckier you get – this was actually my mum’s mantra to me growing up.

What do you think your best quality is?

Tenacity. I don’t give up easily. It can really irritate people!

What trait do you most dislike in yourself, and in others?

I tend to overanalyse. Sometimes, we all just need to lighten up and not be so hard on ourselves.

In others, I find closed-mindedness frustrating. It blocks progress.

Name three things you like

Entertaining, art and the beach.

Tell us about a secret skill we don’t know you have

Life drawing (or, as my son says, “mum paints naked people with her friends”)

What is your most prized possession?

My son – without question.

Early bird or night owl?

Definitely an early bird.

What’s your favourite food?

Grapes. All forms.

What would your superpower be?

Teleportation. I travel so much, that would be awesome.