Audrey Phelan of Jennings O'Donovan claimed Excellence in Senior Leadership – Consulting at the Women in Construction Awards 2026, establishing a benchmark for consulting leadership excellence. Her career spanning over 30 years reflects authentic, values-driven leadership grounded in technical depth and strategic organisational influence.

Audrey's technical expertise provides the foundation for her consulting leadership, enabling credible evaluation of complex infrastructure challenges and strategic advisory capability. Over three decades, she has consistently demonstrated strategic vision and commercial foresight in delivering nationally significant infrastructure projects. This combination—technical mastery combined with forward-thinking strategic positioning—distinguishes consulting leaders capable of advising clients on both immediate project requirements and long-term sector evolution.

Her leadership extends beyond individual project delivery toward broader sector influence and advocacy. Her impact across public bodies reflects trusted advisor status and proven capability shaping infrastructure policy and delivery strategy at governmental levels. Her strong industry advocacy demonstrates commitment to advancing consulting practice standards and construction sector excellence beyond her immediate organisational role.

Audrey's ability to combine technical depth with broad organisational influence reflects distinctive leadership positioning. While many professionals achieve either deep technical expertise or broad organisational reach, her achievement of both simultaneously demonstrates exceptional capability to command credibility across multiple stakeholder communities whilst maintaining integrity as strategic advisor.

Judges highlighted Phelan's distinctive leadership qualities. "This entrant impresses the judges with her authentic and highly impactful leadership," the panel said. "With over 30 years of technical expertise, Audrey has consistently demonstrated strategic vision and commercial foresight in delivering nationally significant infrastructure projects. Her leadership goes beyond project delivery; her influence across public bodies and strong industry advocacy reflect enduring, values-driven excellence. Audrey's ability to combine technical depth with broad organisational influence sets a new benchmark for senior leadership in consulting."

This award recognition reflects the Women in Construction Awards' commitment to acknowledging leaders advancing consulting excellence and strategic sector influence. Audrey's achievement illustrates how technical mastery, values-driven practice, and broad advocacy combine to create enduring impact within consulting.

For the full list of winners and category details, visit the official Women in Construction Awards website and subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive insights and coverage from Ireland's construction sector.