Influence Landscape Planning and Design expands team

Landscape architecture practice Influence Landscape Planning and Design, based in Newark, Nottinghamshire, has welcomed new talent and promoted existing team members as it grows its client base.

Leonie Brown joins as principal landscape architect to support senior leadership on project delivery, while Lily Gavin, a recent MA graduate from the University of Edinburgh, starts as graduate landscape architect on the Pathway to Chartership. 

Leonie said: “I feel lucky to join Influence Landscape Planning and Design and I’ve been warmly welcomed into a team who works closely together and shares a huge breadth of knowledge and experience. 

“The new offices are impressive with a lovely outlook over the River Trent and I’ve been assigned to a variety of projects. 

“It’s very exciting to be part of the growing business and contributing to its success.”

Lily added: “Starting my graduate role at Influence has been a great experience and I’ve really enjoyed being exposed to a wide range of projects, working across planning, design and landscape maintenance. 

“The team has been really welcoming, and I’ve enjoyed applying my skills to real-world projects post-university. 

“I’ve especially enjoyed sitting in and being involved in external team meetings with multidisciplinary team members including architects, engineers and ecologists, and have developed a growing interest in public realm.”

Meanwhile, promotions at the firm include Issie Stratton to senior landscape manager, Inga Kowalska to landscape technician, and Jake Haywood to apprentice urban designer, reflecting their expanding responsibilities.

The now 13-strong practice has seen rising demand due to legislation updates, NPPF changes, Government initiatives and public focus on climate-resilient, biodiversity-led landscapes.

Influence is also expanding into new sectors, taking on projects for the NHS, Mansfield Town Council and nationally significant infrastructure schemes.

Sara Boland, managing director of Influence Landscape, Planning and Design, added: “We’d like to welcome Leonie and Lily to Influence and congratulate Issie, Inga and Jake for their much-deserved promotions.

“Leonie and Lily come with skills, passion and ambitious ideas and will help us as to push forward with our growth strategy and digital practices. 

“Issie, Inga and Jake are also playing key parts in the success and future of influence as we see sharp demand for our services both in the public and private sectors.

“Bringing new talent to the company and seeing them thrive through quality delivery and client service is a pleasure. 

“It’s been a pivotal year for Influence, with our new office, expanded team and other highlights, there is much to look forward to.”

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