Jacqueline O’Donovan, managing director of O’Donovan Waste Disposal, took home the coveted Achiever of the Year Award at the 2016 Constructing Excellence in London & South East Awards last week. The annual awards celebrate outstanding performance in the sector, with over 560 construction industry professionals in attendance. Jacqueline was recognised for her exceptional passion, drive and continuous investment in her staff and business.

“Jacqueline is a driver of people” commented Mark Armstrong, category sponsor and chair of the judging panel.  “Her enthusiasm resonates throughout her family business, the built environment and the wider community.”

Under Jacqueline’s dynamic leadership, O’Donovan Waste Disposal has become one of the South East’s leading waste management companies operating within London and the surrounding area. Running the business for over 30 years, Jacqueline has grown the company to a turnover of more than £16m, with 140 staff and a fleet of 85 HGVs.

Jacqueline was acknowledged for her passion for embedding an ethos of excellence and continuous improvement within the company, backed by her commitment to the health and safety of both her own staff and the wider industry, and investment in the company’s facilities and fleet of HGVs. Jacqueline is also committed to demonstrating best practice as an SME and regularly mentors smaller companies.

Jacqueline commented: “It’s a real honour to receive this award. At O’Donovan our biggest asset is our people, and I’m proud to lead a team that continues to strive for excellence in the sector.”

In recognition of her achievements, Jacqueline has also recently won the Institute of Directors Family Director of the Year Award and the Outstanding Woman in Construction Award.