Women in Timber: Cyndi Chandler

In a new series of articles for Women in Timber, we highlight the career paths of women across the timber industry.

Each interviewee will share their experiences, pivotal moments and achievements, and insights into their roles, and celebrating the valuable contribution women continue to make within this sector.

In this article, we hear from Cyndi Chandler, Managing Director of Simpson Strong-Tie.

Name: Cyndi Chandler

Title: Managing Director UK and Ireland

Company: Simpson Strong-Tie

How long have you been in the industry? It will be 41 years in January 2026.

How you found your way into it? It was by chance, I answered an add in the local paper (that’s how long ago) for a receptionist position at Simpson Strong-Tie.  I was going to a local University in Texas and decided I would like to work and go to school in the evenings.

What was your first role and impressions? Receptionist at Simpson Strong-Tie, the company was growing very fast, and quickly moved into an internal sales role, and then on to manage the inside sales/customer service department. I immediately knew it was a great company with a lot of potential for growth if I worked hard.  Here I am almost 41 years later living in the UK.

What was your pivotal moment? My boss at the time saying I want you to move into outside sales.  There was a position opening in Miami, FL and sent me there for two weeks to try. I loved the job but could not see me raising my 3 year old twin boys at the time in South Florida.  I turned that position down, and 6 months later moved to North Carolina as a merchandiser, and 4 months later was promoted to Territory Manager.

If you were giving your younger self advice, what would you say? Say yes to opportunities, even if you are scared, you don’t have to have everything figured out, learn as you grow.

Who were your role models – both in and out of the industry? My mom, who taught me manners, to be kind, and work hard. My first boss Sheryl Wyatt, she taught me working hard will pay off in many ways.  Also, our now retired CEO Karen Colonias who was truly a “real person” and treated people the way they should be and modelled our values each and every day.

What’s the best bit about being a woman in the industry? Women in the construction industry often form a tight-knit support network, mentorship, professional associations (such as here in the UK Women in Timber) that lift each other up.  Being part of a growing movement can change the entire industry. It shows that it does not matter what gender you are being the best at what you do will take you places in your career and personal development, and of course leadership.

Have you faced any challenges, and if so, how did you overcome them? Of course, who doesn’t face challenges. I’ve learned when facing something challenging to step back and think it through, reach out to those you trust for advice, and dig in deep to find the best solution. Don’t make rash decisions, think about different options.

Looking ahead to the future, what’s next for you, your company, and the industry? The future for me personally from a working perspective is shorter rather than longer. I plan to retire in four years, and enjoy traveling the world with my super supportive husband, and spending time spoiling our grandkids. I hope I’ve planted seeds for those younger than me to want to strive to succeed and carry on the company’s values.

No doubt  Simpson Strong-Tie will continue to grow, and be the leader in our industry.

For more information about Simpson Strong-Tie, visit: Simpson Strong-Tie