Ritchie Bros. is celebrating International Women's Day 2026 by highlighting the extraordinary stories of women within the organization. Breaking stereotypes and driving change, these women are making their mark in the heavy equipment industry.
On International Women's Day, Ritchie Bros. a leading industrial auctioneer and leading global asset management company, is proud to highlight the extraordinary stories of some of the women who are driving the future of the heavy equipment industry. The company has long encouraged diversity and supported women to take on leadership roles at all levels of the organization.
Creating an inclusive culture and providing opportunities for growth are key to the company's continued success. Ritchie Bros. women lead in areas ranging from operations and marketing to finance, customer service and other departments, breaking barriers and shaping the future of the heavy equipment industry.
Emma Tuckley - A change of industry: from administrative assistant to operations leaders
Emma Tuckley's unexpected path to leadership at Ritchie Bros. began nearly 30 years ago when, working as a waitress at her previous job, she saw a job offer from Ritchie Bros. and decided to apply, making a radical shift to a completely different industry.
She started at Ritchie Bros. as an administrative assistant and, through her dedication, is now Director of International Operations Support, responsible for improving systems and processes across multiple countries, cultures and time zones.
“For me, success today means bringing positive change, helping others grow in their careers and feeling that my work really makes a difference..” - Emma Tuckley.
Danielle Roks - Proving that every day is “Mission Possible”.”
As Head of Office Operations in Benelux, Danielle Roks has spent nine years overseeing the smooth running of day-to-day operations, managing documentation, supporting colleagues and ensuring that clients feel welcome. Her role is much more dynamic than many expect; it requires problem solving, coordination and adaptability every day.
«It's not about fitting into the industry; it's about adding value to it..» - Danielle Roks.
Laura Cassinelli - Connecting Strategy and Execution Behind the Scenes
With 18 years at Ritchie Bros., Laura Cassinelli has seen the company evolve; she has lived through the shift from in-person auctions to digital solutions. As Head of Marketing for Italy, Laura is a key figure in connecting buyers with the right teams, using data-driven strategies and a customer-centric approach to drive success.
«In an industry traditionally perceived as technical and transactional, empathy and strategic listening are powerful differentiators.» - Laura Cassinelli.
Estrella Diaz - Thinking big, beyond borders
For Estrella, the heavy machinery industry is defined by scale and international collaboration. As Regional Sales Manager for Southern Europe at Mascus, he leads the sales strategy in multiple markets and cultures.
He believes the next generation should enter the industry with confidence:
“I would like women to enter this industry without fear, knowing they belong in it.” - Estrella Diaz.
Marta Matlag - Bridging technology and global trade
As Head of Marketplace-E, Marta Matlag works at the intersection of technology and international trade, helping to connect buyers and sellers of equipment around the world.
While heavy machinery focuses on machines, the real expertise is in data, relationships, planning and strategy. His work combines technology, negotiation and psychology. He believes it's not about breaking stereotypes, but about generating results.
«The goal is not to fit in, but to know that you belong wherever you choose to be..» - Marta Matlag.
Montana Donaldson - confidence in the field
Montana began his career at Ritchie Bros. working in the field before assuming his role as Territory Manager in New Zealand. Building her experience from the ground up gave her the confidence she now brings to every client conversation. She believes that women bring a differential strength to the industry:
“We have a different approach and often connect better with emotional customers. That's a big advantage”. - Montana Donaldson.
Naglaa Sultan - Building Relationships, Creating Opportunities
In Dubai, Naglaa Sultan works as a Business Development Representative, turning conversations into opportunities. Her work is based on building strong relationships with clients, demonstrating that women bring essential skills to this traditionally male-dominated industry.
«Women in this industry are no longer an exception. We bring communication skills, intelligent problem solving and determination that help the business grow..» - Naglaa Sultan.
Gabriela Fragoso - The serene voice when everything gets complicated
When problems arise, Gabriela is often the person everyone turns to. As Customer Service Manager for Spain and Portugal, she spends her days resolving issues, supporting customers and helping teams stay calm in times of high pressure.
His team defines it by one word: patience. It's a way of working built on experience. She has lived through the transition of the business from face-to-face auctions to the digital environment, and with it, the change in the way the industry is perceived.
“Challenges help me grow. They make me stronger.” - Gabriela Fragoso.
Mariana Faustino - Never give up on your dreams
Mariana's career spans continents and second chances. After 10 years as a secretary in Brazil, she moved to the Netherlands, where language barriers might have prevented her from continuing in the profession. Instead, she joined Ritchie Bros. as Logistics Coordinator and her role has evolved into Executive Assistant, supporting the management team and ensuring the smooth running of the business.
«Never give up on your dreams.» - Mariana Faustino.
Sara Ekblom - The details that make agreements work
Sara joined Ritchie Bros. looking for a role that would challenge her to grow and create new connections. Today, in Sales Support for the Mascus team in the Nordics, she is at the center of multiple processes. “There is much more to it than just publishing machines online. The work involves finance, decision making, asset valuations, ordering and planning.”. Throughout her career, one piece of advice has always remained with her.
“Trust is built with consistency.” - Sara Ekblom.
Thérèse Kahilu - Calm in the midst of chaos
Finance is fast, complex and unpredictable. Thérèse approaches them with serenity and a decisive mindset.
“Always think that there is a solution to any situation, and that you can do it..” - Thérèse Kahilu.
The future of heavy machinery
Although the heavy equipment industry is built on machines, it's the people of Ritchie Bros. who are shaping its future. From operations to customer service, marketing to finance, these women are not only participating in the industry, they are driving it forward.
As a woman who has built her own career in the industry, Ghislaine Duijmelings, CEO, Ritchie Bros. International, The following is emphasized: «The women featured here represent the strength of our business. At Ritchie Bros. we value diversity and support the professional growth of our team. Their talent, leadership, experience and diverse perspectives are shaping not only our company, but the future of the industry. True progress happens when people are recognized, valued and given room to lead.«
As Ritchie Bros. continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where women can thrive and lead.
