Paula Vaz-Cudna: her career as a Site Coordinator at Equans UK
Paula Vaz-Cudna: her career as a Site Coordinator at Equans UK
While Paula’s career has taken her across continents – from Europe to West Africa and back to Europe again – her deep commitment to people, unwavering professionalism and strong sense of engagement have remained constant throughout.
Can you tell us about your journey before Equans?
I was born in Aveiro, in the north of Portugal, and and lived between Bissau (Guinea-Bissau) and Lisbon until I was 10, when I became seriously ill. My parents are from Guinea-Bissau. I returned to Portugal, where I underwent years of treatment and several operations. At the age of 14, I began using a wheelchair.
I decided to live in an association until I was 27 because I wanted to be more independent. I studied in the evening and worked during the day to pay my bills. Later, my aunt encouraged me to move to London – but I didn’t speak any English at the time. So I took a chance, and I started again from scratch, learning the language while working part-time. My first construction role was as a receptionist on the Olympic Park transformation.
How did you join Equans?
Oh, that’s a funny story! When I was at my first job at Olympic Park, I refused entry to someone who arrived late for induction. Years later, as it turns out, he was my interviewer when I applied at Equans! When he recognised me, I thought I had no chance ౼ but he called me 30 minutes later to offer me the job. He said: “I remember you – you were polite, but firm. You did your job but still offered me a solution. That’s exactly what I need today.” That meant a lot. Before Equans, people would love my CV, then reject me when they saw the wheelchair. Equans saw beyond that.
How have you progressed professionally at Equans?
I joined as a receptionist and loved it immediately. I love dealing with people ౼ but I also believe that strong relationships are built on mutual respect. I remember that at our first team meeting, I said: “You don’t need to like me. But you do need to respect me.” That mindset still guides me.
Three months after I started, my manager had an accident and trusted me to step up. I took on scheduling, coordination and team support. I was ready to take any responsibility. And over time, my responsibilities grew naturally, step by step, into my current role.
What does your role as Site Coordinator at Loughborough University involve?
Today, I’m facilities coordinator and the first point of contact on the site at Loughborough University. We are 16 people across reception, security, cleaning, catering and technical services. For any issue or for any problem, people come to me. I coordinate daily operations, support the team and work closely with the university through regular planning meetings. It’s a role built on communication and trust.
You’re also an Equans disability champion. What does it mean to you?
For me, commitment is about being present and supporting people. I connect teams, solve problems and make sure everyone feels heard. When you feel valued, you naturally give more. Equans trusted me with responsibility and created an inclusive workplace — that drives my commitment every day.
How does Equans’ value of commitment shape your daily work?
I’m part of the disability steering committee and act as a voice for others. I help promote events and show people that they belong here. If you think that because you are disabled you don’t have your place at Equans, you should know that you do.
For me, it’s about giving back. I want to pass on what my managers gave me — that commitment, that support. I’m not here just for the work, but also for the people.
What has Equans brought to your professional journey?
Paula: Equans saw my potential, my engagement and my professionalism and gave me the opportunity of my life. They also adapted my role when I became a mother, making sure I could balance work and family. That support matters. I’m proud to be a part of Equans.
