Huws Gray Group chief executive Daksh Gupta has been named on the 2026 Northern Power Women Advocacy List, marking the first time a representative from the construction sector has been included on the list.
The Advocacy List recognises male allies who actively support gender equality and wider inclusion across organisations and industries, highlighting leaders who use their influence to challenge established practices and promote more inclusive workplaces.
Recognition highlights construction sector representation
Gupta is one of 25 individuals selected for the Advocacy List from a record 1,800 nominations. Finalists were chosen by 90 independent judges across 12 award categories and three Game Changer lists.
The Northern Power Women Awards are described by the organisers as the largest gender equality awards programme in Europe.
The inclusion of a construction sector leader reflects growing focus on diversity and inclusion within parts of the built environment industry, where gender imbalance remains a long-standing challenge.
Inclusion initiatives within Huws Gray Group
Within Huws Gray Group, Gupta has been involved in initiatives aimed at increasing awareness of inclusion and widening access to flexible working arrangements. The business has also established a strategic partnership with the Construction Inclusion Coalition (CIC) as a founding partner.
Beyond construction, Gupta has worked with the Auto 30 Club, an organisation focused on improving female representation within the automotive sector.
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Industry-wide advocacy for gender equality
The Advocacy List focuses on leaders who actively champion inclusion rather than organisational performance alone. Organisers say it recognises those who use their leadership positions to support diverse talent and help create environments where progression is accessible to a broader range of people.
Commenting on the recognition, Daksh Gupta said:
“I’m proud to be recognised on the Northern Power Women Advocacy List, but this isn’t about reaching a finish line – it’s a signal of progress.
I’ve been fortunate to work alongside organisations and networks committed to accelerating inclusion, and I’m proud to continue playing a role in that collective effort.
“There’s more to do, and I’m absolutely committed to helping create work environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive – especially in industries where gender imbalance is still a reality.”
Diversity strategy aligned with wider sector change
Gupta said the recognition aligns with Huws Gray Group’s wider diversity and inclusion strategy, which aims to embed inclusion into business operations and decision-making.
He added:
“This recognition aligns with Huws Gray Group’s wider Diversity & Inclusion strategy, which ensures inclusion is embedded in how we operate, grow and make decisions. We’re focused on driving long-term, meaningful change – from inclusive leadership and fair progression to strengthening attraction and retention strategies and listening closely to our colleagues so we can remove barriers where they exist.”
The Northern Power Women Awards ceremony will take place on Thursday 12 March in Manchester, celebrating individuals and organisations working to drive change across sectors.
