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Ritchie Bros. is celebrating International Women's Day 2026 by highlighting the stories of remarkable women within the organization. These women are breaking stereotypes and bringing about change, leaving their mark on the heavy equipment industry.
This International Women's Day, Ritchie Bros. one of the leading industrial auction houses and leading asset management company, is proud to highlight the remarkable women who are shaping the future of the heavy equipment industry. With a global presence and a culture of inclusiveness, the company has long embraced diversity and empowered women to flourish in leadership roles at all levels of the organization.
At Ritchie Bros., creating an inclusive culture and providing growth opportunities are essential to the company's continued success. Women at Ritchie Bros. are leading the way in positions in operations, marketing, finance and more. They are breaking barriers and shaping the future of the industry.
Emma Tuckley's unexpected career to an executive position at Ritchie Bros. began nearly 30 years ago when, while working as a waitress at her previous job, she saw a job opening at Ritchie Bros. and decided to apply, making a bold move into a completely different industry.
She began as an administrative assistant and, thanks to her ambition, dedication and commitment, is now Director of International Operations Support, where she improves systems and processes in operations across multiple countries, cultures and time zones.
"Today, success for me means being able to contribute to positive change, helping others grow in their careers and knowing that my work makes a difference.” - Emma Tuckley.
As Office Operations Manager in Benelux, Danielle Roks has been keeping daily operations running smoothly for nine years. She handles machine and auction paperwork, supports colleagues and makes customers feel welcome. Her job is much more dynamic than many people think and requires problem-solving, coordination skills and adaptability every day.
"It's not about adapting to the industry, but adding value to it.” - Danielle Roks.
Laura Cassinelli has been with Ritchie Bros. for 18 years and has seen the company evolve from live auctions to digital solutions. As marketing manager for Italy, Laura plays a key role in connecting buyers to the right machines. She uses data-driven strategies and a customer-centric mindset to drive success.
"In an industry traditionally seen as technical and transactional, empathy and strategic listening are powerful differentiators.” - Laura Cassinelli.
For Estrella, the world of heavy equipment is characterized by scale and international cooperation. As Regional Sales Manager for Southern Europe at Mascus, she leads the commercial strategy for multiple markets and cultures. She believes that the next generation should enter the industry with confidence.
"I would like to see women enter this industry without fear, knowing that this is where they belong.” - Estrella Díaz.
As manager of the Marketplace-E team, Marta Matlag works at the intersection of technology and global commerce, where she connects buyers and sellers of machinery and vehicles around the world.
Heavy Equipment may be all about machines, but its real expertise lies in data, relationships, planning and strategy. Her work is part technology, part negotiation and part psychology. She believes it's not about breaking stereotypes, but about getting results.
"The goal is not to belong. It is knowing that you belong where you decide to be.” - Marta Matlag.
Montana began her career with Ritchie Bros. in the yard, before taking the position of Sales Representative in New Zealand. Gaining experience from the ground up gave her the confidence she brings to every conversation with customers. She believes women add a special strength to the industry.
"We have a different approach and can often connect more easily with emotional customers. That's a big advantage.” - Montana Donaldson.
In Dubai, Naglaa Sultan works as a Business Development Representative, turning conversations into opportunities. Her work is based on building strong relationships with clients, showing that women bring essential skills to this traditionally male-dominated industry.
"Women in this industry are no longer the exception. We bring strong communication skills, smart problem-solving skills and determination that help the company grow.” - Naglaa Sultan
When challenges arise, Gabriela is often the one people turn to. As Customer Service Manager, she spends her days solving problems, supporting customers and helping teams stay stable when things get busy. Her team knows her for one thing above all else: patience.
It is an approach shaped by experience. She has seen the company evolve from live auctions to today's digital environment and has also seen how perceptions have changed.
"Challenges help me grow. They make me stronger.” - Gabriela Fragoso.
Mariana's career spans several continents and second chances. After working as a secretary in Brazil for 10 years, she moved to the Netherlands, where language barriers might prevent her from continuing her profession. Instead, she joined Ritchie Bros. as a logistics coordinator and advanced to her current position as a management assistant, where she supports senior management and makes sure the company runs smoothly.
“Never give up on your dreams.” - Mariana Faustino,
Sara joined Ritchie Bros. because she was looking for a position that would challenge her to grow and make new contacts. Today, she works in the Sales Support role for the Mascus Nordics team and finds herself at the center of a dynamic environment.
“This position involves much more than just placing machines online. I'm also involved in finance, decision making, equipment valuations, ordering and scheduling.” One piece of advice has stayed with her throughout her career.
"Trust is based on consistency.” - Sara Ekblom.
Accounting is rapidly changing, complex and often unpredictable. Thérèse approaches it with calm determination and a solution-oriented mindset.
"Always think that there is a solution for every situation - and that I can do it.” - Thérèse Kahilu.
Although machinery is at the forefront of the heavy equipment industry, it is the people at Ritchie Bros. who are shaping its future. From operations to customer service, marketing and finance, these women are not just participants in the industry, they are the ones who move it forward.
As a woman who has built her own career in the industry, highlights Ghislaine Duijmelings, General Manager at Ritchie Bros. International: “The women featured here embody the strength of our company. At Ritchie Bros. we value diversity and support the career growth of our team. Their talent, leadership, expertise and diverse perspectives not only shape our company, but also the future of the industry. Real progress occurs when people are recognized, trusted and given the space to lead.”
As Ritchie Bros. continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment in which women can thrive and lead.
