The construction industry has traditionally been male dominated, often perceived as physically demanding and associated with a more masculine image. Across the sector, gender imbalance persists due to a mix of factors, ranging from unconscious bias to long-held perceptions about women working on construction sites.
Despite these challenges, women continue to break barriers and build meaningful, impactful careers in the built environment. At Obayashi Singapore, women represent about 25% of our workforce, contributing across engineering, project management, digital construction, corporate functions and more. Their expertise, leadership and resilience play an essential role in driving project success and organizational excellence.
In this feature, we highlight four of our female Managers and Engineers who exemplify the passion, professionalism and determination that define OSPL’s culture. Their insights and experiences offer an authentic look into what it means to grow and thrive in construction.
Mary Tan, Senior Manager (Contracts)
Mary is a shining example of women in leadership at Obayashi Singapore. She was nominated to attend the prestigious iBuildSG LEAD Milestone Programme by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA), a recognition reserved for high-potential leaders in the built environment sector. Beyond her professional achievements, Mary plays an active role as a mentor, offering guidance, career insights and developmental support to her colleagues. Her commitment to excellence and her willingness to uplift others continue to inspire many across the organization.
Linda Zhang, Senior Manager (Contracts)
As a Senior Manager (Contracts) at Obayashi Singapore, Linda plays a pivotal leadership role in the built environment industry. Her journey with Obayashi reflects the company’s commitment to nurturing talent and empowering women to grow and excel in roles traditionally dominated by men. With her strong technical expertise and steady leadership, Linda continues to contribute significantly to the success of our projects while serving as a role model for aspiring female professionals in the construction sector.
Loh Lee Suan, Manager (Contracts)
As a Manager (Contracts) at Obayashi Singapore, Loh Lee Suan exemplifies the growing presence of women leaders in the construction industry. While the sector is often perceived as male-dominated, Lee Suan’s career reflects how confidence, determination and professional excellence can shape remarkable achievements. Her steady leadership and commitment to her craft continue to inspire colleagues and contribute meaningfully to the success of our projects.
Shanon Tan, Building Engineer
Shanon Tan is steadily making her mark in the construction industry. In November 2024, Shanon was selected for a one-week exchange programme in Japan, an experience that offered her valuable exposure to Japanese working culture and strengthened her professional outlook. She appreciates the flexibility provided by Obayashi Singapore, enabling her to work a five-day week on a construction site, as well as the opportunities to broaden her competencies. Through the company’s mentor-mentee programme, she was paired with the Quantity Surveyor team, where she gained deeper insight into project budgeting in addition to her technical responsibilities.
Together, these stories reflect the strength, resilience, and dedication of the women who are shaping the future of Obayashi Singapore. Their journeys celebrate both personal achievement and the supportive culture that enables our people to grow and thrive. As we continue to champion diversity and equal opportunities, we remain committed to building a workplace where every individual can make a meaningful impact.
