Yan Chen has been around the construction industry since she was a child. She started her career with a teaching qualification after completing a Master of Arts at the University of Auckland and was on her way to becoming a lecturer. Yan values relationships and thrives in the built environment where she can support, collaborate and coach others to succeed in their roles. She is the Asian Business Sales Manager at CARTERS Building Supplies, where she focuses on building strong customer relationships, particularly within the Asian segment.
“A typical day for me is very dynamic and people-focused. It often includes supporting account managers, meeting with customers, visiting sites, and engaging in internal management discussions. A big part of my role is developing and growing my team; coaching, setting clear expectations, helping them succeed in their roles, and finding solutions for customers’ needs,” says Yan. She adds that no two days are ever the same, and while it can be extremely busy, she enjoys the challenge. “I find it rewarding to lead a team, support their development, and work together to achieve strong outcomes for both our customers and the business. It keeps me engaged, continuously learning, and closely connected to both my team and our customers.”
Like many people, Yan says her career path evolved. “Growing up, my family in China was involved in the construction business, so I was exposed to the industry from a young age. In many ways, it feels like construction has always been part of my life, and maybe even in my veins,” says Yan. She found herself naturally drawn back to the building industry and says the opportunity to work with people, support customers, collaborate with teams, and contribute to real, tangible outcomes appealed to her. “It has been especially meaningful for me to know that what we do helps build a person’s biggest asset - their home. In a broader sense, I feel proud that I am contributing in some way to building New Zealand.”
Being involved in the Building Institute has been an enjoyable part of Yan’s professional journey over the past three-and-a-half years, and she thanks her mentor, Tom Richmond, for introducing her to YPA and for his support on her journey with the Institute. Yan has served in a range of roles, including Student Representative Team Leader, YPA Deputy Chair, YPA Chair, National Board member, and now a Northern Region Committee member, saying each role has contributed differently to her growth. “One of the things I’ve enjoyed most is simply being part of the committees and the people involved. There’s a real sense of connection and energy. We always have a lot of fun along the way, and I think most people probably remember my fairly loud laugh in the room. Through these experiences, I’ve been able to connect with a wide network of professionals across the building industry. That has broadened my perspective well beyond my day-to-day role, especially around teamwork, leadership, and strategic thinking.”
Yan is also involved in the education space and works with students. It has given her insight into the challenges they face, the support they need, and what types of events and opportunities genuinely make a difference. She says the Institute has helped her grow in confidence to contribute to broader industry conversations and think more strategically about the future of the built environment. “Most importantly, being a part of the Institute has reinforced for me the value of collaboration, contribution, and having fun while doing it. I don’t see it just as professional development; it’s also about building relationships, supporting others, and helping grow the next generation in the built environment. Overall, the Institute has been a fantastic platform for growth, connection, and giving back. It has opened up both professional and personal opportunities that I truly value.”
Working in the built environment has taught Yan that success is built on people, not just processes or technical knowledge. She says, “Your personal brand goes a long way in building trust and long-term customer relationships, and consistency in how you show up really matters.” Adding that leadership is not about having all the answers, but about listening, supporting others, and creating an environment where people can perform at their best.
Yan has earned several personal achievements in the industry; however, she is most proud of the first Speed Mentoring event held in Auckland. “We all know how tough it can be for students to find jobs or even access meaningful career advice. That’s what made this event so important to me. The idea originally came from Southern Committee member, Adam Baxter, who started the event in Christchurch. At the time, I was serving as YPA Chair, and I took the lead in bringing the event to Auckland, from initial planning through to securing sponsors and organising the event. There was incredible support along the way. Our Northern Committee played a big role, and Craig Hopkins, who was Chair at the time, was very supportive in securing mentors. I also had great support from Jamie Summers, Aarron Cunningham, and Callum Walsh, as well as support from Massey University.”
The event sold out, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. What made it even more special for Yan was hearing it mentioned at the NZIOB Charitable Luncheon, where the previous National Board Chair, John Hemi, acknowledged the event and personally thanked Yan. “The feedback from both students and mentors was fantastic, which made it even more rewarding. Since then, I’m especially proud that the event has now been officially included in the Building Institute calendar as an annual event.”
Yan says that people are surprised by how collaborative and people-focused the built environment really is, and assume it’s mainly about construction sites, drawings, and technical delivery. But in reality, so much of the work happens through constant coordination and communication between clients, consultants, contractors, suppliers, councils, and end users.
"Even something as simple as a variation or material change can involve discussions with multiple parties. It’s rarely a single decision made in isolation. It is a fast-paced and dynamic industry where no two projects are the same, and things can shift quickly due to weather, supply chain delays, or consenting requirements. You are constantly learning, whether it’s adapting to new building regulations, working with different procurement models, or finding more efficient and sustainable construction methods,” says Yan.
For anyone considering a career in the built environment, Yan’s advice is simple: you have to start somewhere. “I started my career in a big-box retail store selling light bulbs, so I know first-hand that your starting point doesn’t define your future. The building industry is great because there are so many pathways and opportunities to grow. My advice is to stay curious, be willing to learn, and don’t be afraid to start in a role that may not feel big at the time. Every role teaches you something valuable, especially about people, communication, and how the industry works.”
She also recommends building strong relationships early. “This industry is very people-driven, and your personal reputation and the way you treat others will open more doors than you expect over time. “Be patient but consistent. Growth doesn’t happen overnight, but if you keep showing up, learning, and pushing yourself, you’ll be surprised how far you can go.”
Yan spends most of her free time with her 10-year-old son, which she says is the best part of her life. “I love cooking and I’m a big fan of Master Chef New Zealand and Master Chef Australia, as well as My Kitchen Rules. I enjoy trying different cuisines at home. Sometimes it works, sometimes it’s a learning experience, but it’s always fun!” Yan also loves to travel, especially as a family. “We plan to travel the world year by year, and we also love cruising. We’ve done nine cruises together so far, and it’s become one of our favourite ways to relax and explore new places. I also enjoy wine tasting when I get the chance, though one of the highlights recently was tequila tasting in Mexico, which was definitely a bit more adventurous than expected.”
