The changemakers: driving transformation across the construction industry

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Construction Week Middle East published ‘The Changemakers 2025,’ a tribute to the women shaping the future of the construction industry. We are proud to share that Olga Litkovets, Partner, has been recognised by the editorial team as part of this year’s list. Below is an excerpt from Olga’s responses, where she shares insights into her career, leadership style and the importance of mentorship.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the construction industry?

Early in my career in Dubai, I happened to find a role with an engineering consultancy. At the time, I wasn’t focused on the industry itself but on finding an environment where I could grow, knowing that my skills were transferable.

As I became more immersed in the construction industry, I grew to love it. There’s something incredibly rewarding about driving through a city, pointing out iconic buildings, and proudly saying, “Our team worked on that.” What fascinates me most is how we’re not just constructing buildings - we’re shaping cityscapes, creating communities, and leaving a lasting impact on the places where people live, work, and connect.

I also have a deep appreciation for the history of architecture and engineering. It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come. Whenever I travel, I love learning about the evolution of cities—like the story behind the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Gaudí’s approach, his passion for design, and his dedication to making the basilica his life’s masterpiece over 43 years are truly inspiring.

Today, I’m proud to work alongside people who are creating remarkable developments around the world - whether shaping skylines or driving sustainability efforts to help cities futureproof against climate change. It’s a privilege to be part of an industry that builds not just structures, but legacies.

Can you share your most significant professional milestone and its impact?

Looking back, several key moments stand out. What I’m most proud of are the collaborations I’ve led - initiatives that sparked innovation, drove meaningful change, and brought new ideas to life. One standout experience was our collaboration with ALEC, where we connected young professionals to develop ‘The Perfect Project of the Future.’ It was an inspiring initiative that encouraged fresh thinking and industry-wide innovation. The most rewarding part was seeing professionals from different backgrounds come together, exchange ideas, and shape forward-thinking solutions - true industry collaboration at its best.

Another significant milestone was developing and implementing marketing strategies that directly contributed to securing major projects. I also played a role in the setup of Cundall’s KSA office. Being involved in establishing and expanding our presence in a new market was both challenging and rewarding.

Most recently, my promotion to Partner at Cundall, with a global role, has been a defining career milestone. Leading a team of 40 professionals across different regions has introduced new layers of complexity - navigating diverse cultures, adapting leadership styles, and tailoring strategies to different markets. It’s a challenge I embrace, as it pushes me to evolve as a leader and drive impact on a global scale.

What leadership qualities do you believe are essential for success in this industry?

Leadership in any industry requires strong communication, resilience and adaptability. However, in a global role, these qualities take on a deeper dimension—understanding different cultures, connecting with teams and clients across regions, and staying attuned to global economic and market trends. The more I understand each market and its unique challenges, the better I can guide and support my team. The more I understand each market and its unique challenges, the better I can guide and support my team.

A successful leader must also have a clear vision that resonates with people and adds value to both the business and the wider community. Leadership isn’t just about managing teams; it’s about inspiring them with a shared purpose. When people understand why they do what they do, their work becomes more meaningful. In this industry, we aren’t just designing buildings—we’re creating icons, shaping cities, and building the future. The UAE is a great example of visionary leadership, and there’s so much to learn from its approach.

A good leader also needs to inspire and empower their team, ensuring everyone feels valued and motivated. For me, meaningful leadership comes down to connection - both with my team and with key stakeholders - because when people feel heard and supported, they thrive, and so does the business.

What challenges have you faced as a woman in the construction industry? How did you overcome them?

I wouldn’t say I’ve faced challenges specifically because of my gender. Throughout my career, I’ve encountered both supportive and unsupportive men and women. For me, the challenges weren’t about gender but about personalities. That said, it’s true that there are fewer women in construction compared to other industries. However, this has never held me back from progressing in my career and I’ve been fortunate to have many supportive mentors.

I overcame obstacles by consistently delivering high-quality work, building strong relationships, and standing my ground when necessary. Over time, my results spoke for themselves, and I gained the recognition and respect I believe I deserve.

How do you actively support or mentor other women in the industry?

Mentorship is something I feel deeply passionate about, and I’m always open to supporting women who reach out for guidance. It’s a privilege to have these conversations, helping others navigate challenges and build confidence in their careers.

Within my team, mentorship is an integral part of my leadership approach. I work hard to foster a supportive and cohesive environment where everyone feels valued, empowered, and equipped to do their best work. Seeing my team members grow and succeed is incredibly rewarding.

I am also very proud to work with young women in Ukraine who are just starting their careers and guide them in this journey. Coming from a humble background, I understand the power of encouragement and the confidence boost that can come from having someone believe in you. It’s always easier to see what’s possible when you have a role model, and I’m committed to helping young women achieve their dreams and career aspirations.

What opportunities and challenges do you see for women in construction within the MENA region?

The industry is evolving, and there are more opportunities than ever for women to step into leadership roles, thanks to growing initiatives promoting diversity and inclusion. I think that we all have a role to play in sharing our experiences, supporting one another, and building communities that help others to thrive.

In my opinion, the key to progressing our diversity journey is continued advocacy, mentorship, and education to break stereotypes and encourage more women to pursue careers in construction.