Sophie Hurst is the Managing Director of Integrity Software, who provide construction specific accounting and management software to construction companies across Ireland and the UK. Its software, which includes flagship product Evolution Mx, is used by businesses of all sizes to record costs, save time and improve margins, and a huge number of CIF members rely on it to manage all aspects of their operations. With over 20 years’ experience in construction software, Sophie has been Managing Director of the company for the past decade.
Best advice you’ve been given?
One piece of advice that has always stuck with me is to listen more than you talk. As a leader, it’s easy to feel like you need to have all the answers, but I’ve found that real insights and innovation come from truly listening to your team, clients, and partners. It’s not just about responding – it’s about understanding.
What project are you most excited about?
At the moment, I’m most excited about the continued evolution of our Mx platform. The feedback we’ve received from our clients about how it’s transforming their financial and operational workflows has been phenomenal. We are also developing a solution specifically for smaller construction businesses, many of which currently rely on generic accounting systems due to cost. Our mission is to ensure that every company in the construction sector, regardless of size, has access to the digital tools they need to thrive and achieve sustainable growth.
How do you approach long-term planning and strategy?
I focus on flexibility and customer centricity. Our industry is constantly changing, so our strategy must be adaptable. I prioritise a mix of regular industry research, client feedback, and input from our team. I also ensure that our plans align with our long-term mission: helping construction companies become more efficient and profitable through technology.
What digital tools or technology are you embracing at the moment to get work done?
As a Carbon Neutral+ business, we’re really mindful of our own carbon footprint, so we prioritise remote meetings over in-person ones, reducing commuting and travel time. To this end, it’s crucial we have the right digital tools in place. We use our own document management system within Evolution Mx to streamline information sharing across the company. It’s been invaluable for ensuring that all staff can access key documents quickly and securely, improving efficiency and collaboration.
Members of the Integrity Software team at the Construction Computing Awards 2024 where the company won Construction Accounting
Product of the Year 2024
What are the big industry trends you’re noticing right now?
The two most prominent trends are sustainability and digitisation. Construction companies are increasingly focused on reducing their carbon footprint, and we’re seeing a rise in demand for tools that track sustainability metrics, and this is something our team are looking at as part of our future development roadmap. On the digitisation front, companies are adopting software to improve efficiency, particularly as margins remain tight. Remote collaboration tools and cloud-based solutions like Evolution Mx are no longer optional – they’re essential.
Who’s impressing you most in the industry at present?
Our client Mastertech Group are a rapidly growing company in the HVAC, mechanical, electrical and plumbing sectors, and they are investing heavily in their on-site processes to become more efficient. We are in the process of delivering a works orders system for them to more effectively manage both the planned and reactive maintenance sides of their business. It’s so refreshing to see a company realise and appreciate the role digitisation can play in their continued growth, and we have really enjoyed working with Mastertech on this project. Looking ahead, we plan to roll out our mobile time-tracking solution, Time Portal, for them in 2025, to further improve on-site efficiency. Another client making waves in the general construction industry is Bretland Construction, who have been fully embracing our Evolution Mx system to drive change within their business. From the finance function to our Mobile GRN app, Bretland are using all different aspects of our construction-specific system to improve workflows, efficiency and productivity – and with their sights firmly set on doubling their turnover in the next two years, they are clearly reaping the benefits.
What did you learn from your biggest mistake?
I used to think I wasn’t good enough and that my voice wasn’t as important as others in the room. This mindset taught me the value of listening to everyone, as I realised I could miss something important by not paying attention to different perspectives. Sometimes it’s easy to forget, but you have two ears and one mouth!
Who’s your role model within the industry or wider business community?
Karren Brady proves that success in maledominated industries is possible through determination and resilience. As a champion for women in business, she uses her platform to break stereotypes and encourage others to aim high. Her advocacy and leadership remind women to embrace challenges, stay confident, and strive for excellence.
Best book or podcast you’ve enjoyed recently?
I love Lauren Paton’s podcast A Woman in a Man’s World, which is aimed at women working in environments created by men, and showcases inspiring stories from women that have been there.
What’s your passion when you’re not at work?
When I’m not at work, I love spending time outdoors with my cockapoo Florence, whether it’s hiking or discovering a new dog friendly pub – it helps me recharge and relax.
