The networking organisation for the property and construction industry Women in Property uses its platform to influence government, including the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Women in Work. Amongst the issues that the APPG is influencing are Women Returners, Making the Industrial Strategy Work for Women, How to Recruit Women for the 21st Century, Inclusivity and Intersectionality, The Impact of COVID-19 on women in the workplace, and the recruitment and retention of women in construction for the 7th Inquiry for Excellence in the Built Environment.

Women in Property also works to encourage girls and young women to consider a career in property and construction through school outreach projects and the National Student Awards.

Jillian will take up the post for one year.

She said: “We have such an incredible talent pool in our membership and when we come together we inspire each other. The supportive culture of Women in Property Central Scotland provides members with a safe space to share challenges and discuss where improvements can be made.

“Our industry needs innovative ideas to prosper and equipping people with the confidence to voice their ideas and challenge the status quo is a vital step in driving positive change. I have gained so much confidence through the support of Women in Property and aim to continue to drive a programme that sparks inspiration, and empowers us all to act.”

David Logue, partner at Gardiner & Theobald, said: “Jill’s commitment to Women in Property as vice-chair has been impressive and she will bring great enthusiasm, as well as organisational and interpersonal skills to the role of chair. The principles of diversity, inclusion, community and social value that underpin Women in Property are shared with Gardiner & Theobald and we are delighted to support Jill in her role as chair – I am sure that she will be a great success.”

Since joining the Women in Property committee in 2022, Jillian has acted as social media coordinator and vice chair supporting Aurora Tallon to drive the diversity and inclusion agenda.

Supporting Jillian in her role is Laura Brown of Kier Group and Amy Dougan of McLaughlin & Harvey who become vice chair and junior vice chair respectively on 1 March.