Playle & Partners LLP has been recognised for its commitment to diversity and equality, taking home the “Inclusive Company” award at the Design and Build UK Women in Construction Awards.
Founded in 2022 by Michaela Wain, Director of Design and Build UK and finalist on The Apprentice (2017), the awards celebrate outstanding contributions by women and allies across the construction sector. Wain, who first entered the industry after taking a year out from Liverpool University, has since become a leading advocate for women in construction and now owns several construction-related businesses.
The event also spotlighted the evening’s charity partner, the Register of Tradeswomen, founded by Hattie Hasan MBE. In her inspiring address, Hasan shared her journey from teaching to becoming one of the UK’s first female plumbers, and how her 2006 vision — to make plumbing accessible to all women — has grown into the world’s only national network of self-employed female plumbers.
For Playle & Partners LLP, the award represents more than just industry recognition. It marks a transformative chapter in the firm’s evolution.
In just four years, we’ve transformed from a company with all-male equity partners and limited diversity, to one that is:
• 60% female-owned
• 50/50 gender split
• Actively growing diversity across all areas — gender, ethnicity, background, lifestyle, and thought.
With a team of just 32, we have demonstrated that meaningful change doesn’t depend on size.
This award celebrates our people — everyone who has helped foster a culture of openness, flexibility, and inclusion. It’s proof that progress is powerful, no matter the scale.