In our latest episode of the GSC Executives Podcast, host Caitlin Tye sits down with Sue Kershaw, a renowned leader in the transport and programme management sectors. Sue’s journey is nothing short of inspirational, having recently transitioned from her role as Managing Director of Transportation at Costain Group to Senior Vice President at AECOM. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, calculated risk-taking, and the importance of fostering diversity and inclusion in traditionally male-dominated industries.
From Civil Engineer to Industry Leader
Sue Kershaw began her career as a civil engineer, with her first job at Trawsfynydd Power Station. Her early experiences, including working on the Canary Wharf Jubilee Line station, sparked her interest in the transport sector. “Transportation adds layers of complexity,” Sue explains, “because it’s about moving people and integrating various forms of transport, which makes it intellectually stimulating.”
Key Achievements and Notable Projects
Sue’s career is marked by several high-profile projects. One of her most significant roles was her involvement in the London 2012 Olympics, where she played a pivotal part in delivering transport for the Games. This project, Sue notes, was not only complex but also carried the weight of national pride and the necessity to deliver flawlessly. “We managed to deliver it a year early and returned £100 million to the Treasury,” she proudly shares.
Another notable achievement was her contribution to the Elizabeth Line, particularly the Paddington station, which she helped bring over the line. “Seeing it busy every day is a great achievement,” Sue remarks, underscoring the satisfaction of seeing tangible results from her efforts.
The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion
A significant portion of Sue’s career has been dedicated to advocating for diversity and inclusion within the industry. She stresses the importance of breaking down barriers and promoting collaboration among contractors, clients, and consultants. “Diversity of thought is crucial,” Sue asserts, “it brings different perspectives and solutions to the table, which is essential for innovation and progress.”
Embracing Risk and Leading with Authenticity
Sue’s approach to leadership involves taking calculated risks and fostering a supportive environment where her team can grow and flourish. She recounts a challenging decision during her career where she chose to redesign a critical structure despite the theoretical assurances of its safety. “I couldn’t personally guarantee it for 120 years, so we went back to basics,” she says, highlighting the importance of following one’s gut and professional judgment.
Looking to the Future
Despite the current challenges in the transportation sector, Sue remains optimistic about the future. She advocates for more integrated working relationships between contractors, clients, and consultants to enhance project delivery and innovation. Her advice to aspiring leaders is to be curious, develop a robust network, and continuously seek opportunities for growth and learning.
Sue Kershaw’s journey is a powerful reminder that success in any field requires a blend of technical expertise, bold decision-making, and a commitment to fostering inclusive and collaborative environments.
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This blog post is based on the GSC Executives Podcast episode “Taking Risks and Engineering Your Success: A Conversation with Sue Kershaw”.
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