For International Women's Day 2024, We Shine A Spotlight on Samantha Elliott

Every year on the 8th of March, the world comes together to mark International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to promoting gender equality and celebrating the achievements of women across the globe.  This year, the theme is 'inspire inclusion', highlighting the importance of valuing and promoting women's inclusion in all aspects of society.

At Blakedown Landscapes, we are proud to shine a spotlight on one of our own inspirational women, Samantha Elliott.  Sam, who is a highly respected Assistant Contracts Manager, has made her mark in a traditionally male-dominated industry by proving that women can excel in any role.

Sam’s first job was as the first and only woman working for an office furniture company. She then found her passion for the outdoors and made the switch to landscaping. Since then she has made significant progress in the industry, beginning as a Key Account Manager in grounds maintenance before expanding her role to construction co-ordinator and then project supervisor.

With a commitment to continually learning and developing her skills, Sam studied for and passed her Site Supervision Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) course, the only one of her class to score 100% and pass first time, she then went on to achieve her Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) and take her NVQ III in Practical Horticulture. 

As a role model, Sam hopes that more women will explore the various opportunities available in the landscaping industry. 

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sam’s commitment to giving back is evident through her involvement as one of the incredible team who volunteered their services to DIY SOS: The Big Build to create a mental health and wellbeing hub for Butterfly Effect Well-being in Harlow. 

Sam’s unique personality has even landed her in the spotlight; featured in the pages of The Guardian as part of their Redhead Day UK, where hundreds of ‘gingers’ from across the world met to celebrate the gene for red hair, expressed in less than 2% of the global population.

She really is a remarkable and one off woman and we are privileged to have her as part of the Blakedown Landscapes Team.