My journey with Summerset began in 2021 when I joined as a Senior Quantity Surveyor, managing the Avonhead and Casebrook sites, and later taking on the Prebbleton development. I was deeply involved in cost planning, procurement, contract administration, risk management, and financial reporting—all while ensuring our projects stayed on budget and on track (and occasionally, on caffeine).

As a Senior Quantity Surveyor, I was the financial conscience of the project—balancing the books, negotiating with contractors, and making sure every dollar spent was a dollar well spent. I worked closely with project managers, site managers, consultants, design managers, procurement teams, and subcontractors to ensure that our developments were not only delivered to the highest standard but also provided value for money. I like to think of it as being the glue between the vision and the reality—except the glue also had to know how to read a contract and spot a variation from a mile away.

In 2022, I was proud to be appointed Regional Commercial Manager for the South Island, a role that expanded my responsibilities significantly and that I took over from an exceptional role model Alan McDonald. I now oversee a portfolio of projects including Avonhead, Casebrook, Prebbleton, Richmond, Rangiora, and Blenheim, having led and currently leading a talented team of junior, intermediate, and senior Quantity Surveyors.

My role involves strategic oversight of commercial performance, mentoring and developing my team, and ensuring we deliver high-quality outcomes for our residents and stakeholders.

This step up wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of my manager Jonathan McKenzie, who not only saw potential in me but also gave me the trust and space to grow into a leadership role. The People & Culture team and my peers have also played a huge part in my development—sharing their knowledge, offering guidance.

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to be recognised for my contributions, receiving the Alan McDonald Individual Excellence Award, the Individual Cost Saving Award, and the Highly Commended Outstanding Leader of the Year Award from NAWIC. These accolades are incredibly meaningful to me—not just because of what they represent, but because they were made possible by the support and nominations of my colleagues. It’s a reminder that success is rarely a solo act; it’s a team sport.

As a senior female leader in construction, I’m incredibly proud to be part of a growing movement that’s reshaping the industry. I’ve seen firsthand how far we’ve come in creating more inclusive, supportive environments for women in construction—and I’m excited about where we’re heading. There’s still work to do, but the momentum is real, and I’m passionate about being part of that change. Whether it’s mentoring the next generation, championing diversity, or simply showing up as my authentic self, I believe in leading with purpose, empathy, and a bit of humour (because let’s face it, some days you just have to laugh).

Looking back, I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but I’m even more excited about what’s ahead. I’m passionate about building not just great projects, but great teams—and I’m committed to continuing to grow, learn, and help others do the same. After all, in construction and in careers, the best foundations are built together.