This International Women's Day, Building Better Healthcare is shining a spotlight on Helen Sturdy, National Head of Construction at NHS England and the P23 Framework, who is driving change in this traditionally male-dominated industry.
Leading NHS England’s construction vision
Helen Sturdy is at the forefront of healthcare infrastructure, overseeing the strategic development and delivery of major projects within the NHS.
As the ProCure framework lead, currently managing an active project obligation of £7 billion and 377 projects, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of NHS construction.
“The framework is a key part of the government’s commitment to improving the NHS and responding to its pressures. We strive to innovate, share knowledge, and maintain consistency across government initiatives,” she explains.
As the first woman to hold her position, Helen Sturdy has had to navigate the complexities of a traditionally male-dominated field
The ProCure framework has earned global recognition, securing prestigious awards and becoming one of the first to achieve both the Constructing Excellence Gold Standard and NHS accreditation.
However, Helen Sturdy’s role is not just about long-term planning; it also demands rapid crisis response. Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, she recalls: “I remember getting the call about what we could build in three weeks and nine weeks, respectively. The ProCure team worked with legal teams and principal supply chain partners to deliver surge hubs and Nightingale hospitals, supporting the NHS at a critical time of need.”
Overcoming challenges and embracing opportunities
With a career spanning project delivery, capital investment, and technical strategy, Helen has faced numerous challenges in the construction industry.
“Funding constraints, estate conditions, workforce shortages and the need for agile procurement solutions all present ongoing hurdles. However, I believe in the power of innovation and collaboration to drive meaningful change,” she states.
With a career spanning project delivery, capital investment, and technical strategy, Helen has faced numerous challenges in the construction industry
Through initiatives like the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA), she fully supports the need to unify government approaches, standardise processes, and leverage data for informed decision-making. “By leading the change as clients, we can set the standard with the support of subject matter experts across the industry.”
Breaking stereotypes: A woman in construction
As the first woman to hold her position, Helen Sturdy has had to navigate the complexities of a traditionally male-dominated field. “It has been both challenging and rewarding. Leadership in this sector requires expertise, resilience, and the ability to break long-standing norms. I hope to inspire future generations by showing that women can thrive in this space.”
While progress has been made in gender diversity, Helen Sturdy acknowledges that more work is needed. “We have seen an increase in women taking leadership roles, and flexible working arrangements have improved work-life balance for those with caring responsibilities. However, we must continue to foster inclusive environments.”
A strong advocate for mentorship, Helen Sturdy encourages young women to embrace opportunities
A strong advocate for mentorship, Helen Sturdy encourages young women to embrace opportunities.
“Confidence in your expertise, networking and continuous learning are key,” she says.
“Join professional institutes, seek mentorship and take on challenges that help you grow. Resilience and determination will take you far.”
Sustainability and innovation in NHS building construction
Sustainability is a cornerstone of NHS England’s construction strategy as a global issue. Helen Sturdy highlights key initiatives such as the NHS Building Standard, ProCure 23 Toolkit, Social Value Charter, biodiversity approaches, and the decarbonisation roadmap.
Innovation and digital transformation are also shaping the future of healthcare infrastructure, according to Helen Sturdy.
While progress has been made in gender diversity, Helen Sturdy acknowledges that more work is needed
“We need to embrace AI and smart technologies,” Helen Sturdy says. “From digital toolkits supporting decision-making to automation in construction and AI-driven data analysis, we are working towards more efficient, high-quality, and sustainable healthcare environments.”
Looking to the future
Among the projects Helen Sturdy is most proud of are those that push the boundaries of innovation – such as the first direct access helipad and globally recognised rehabilitation facilities.
Social value is another area of focus, particularly in linking apprenticeships to professional qualifications with a wide range of graduate and apprenticeship programmes available in the NHS England Estates and Facilities team.
Helen Sturdy’s advice to women in healthcare infrastructure and supply chain management is that “knowledge is key
“I take great pride in seeing the impact of our work on individuals and communities,” Helen Sturdy says.
“Whether it is through improving patient care or creating new career opportunities, the ripple effect of these projects is profound.”
Celebrating International Women’s Day
For Helen Sturdy, International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate progress while recognising the work that remains. “It is about fostering environments where talent and expertise define success. Women should never let their development take a back seat – network, stay informed, and be part of the change.”
Helen Sturdy’s advice to women in healthcare infrastructure and supply chain management is that “knowledge is key, embrace learning, share insights, and drive change for better outcomes. Together, we can shape a future where excellence and inclusivity go hand in hand.”
As we mark International Women’s Day, Helen Sturdy’s journey is a testament to the impact of strong leadership, resilience, and a commitment to innovation. Her story serves as an inspiration for women in construction and beyond, proving that barriers are meant to be broken – and the future is for men and women to build.
Top image: Helen Sturdy