Joining Spitfire Bespoke Homes in 2014, Emma works from its headquarters in Solihull, focusing on premium sites in desirable locations including Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwick and Royal Leamington Spa. Planning has dominated Emma's career since she left school. After studying an undergraduate degree at UCE, now the University of Birmingham, in Geography and Environmental Planning, Emma went on to complete a Masters in Property Development.
Emma (pictured above) comments: “I was the first in my family to go to university and my interest in the industry developed from enjoying geography at school, which led me down the path of planning. Alongside my degree, I also gained some valuable work experience at a planning consultancy in the private sector. Following my work experience, I was offered a job there starting as an assistant planner and worked my way up to senior planning level.”
“When the opportunity arose to join Spitfire, I jumped at the chance to head up the planning team” continues Emma. “I started as a planning manager, working closely with the land team. Since then, we have expanded significantly as a company, and I have been able to develop and grow the team.”
In her role, Emma liaises with many different stakeholders, ensuring that no day is ever the same, she explains: “Engaging with local planning authorities, members of the public, key stakeholders and on-site teams is a huge part of my job. A lot of the time, it involves educating a range of people on our brand, company ethos and ultimately, what we always strive to achieve.”
Emma continues: “In the planning team, we look at a range of new and upcoming sites as well as assisting on live sites, which we see all the way through from start to finish. I love being able to witness a project come to life and the nature of Spitfire's product makes me really proud”
“I would definitely recommend a career in the housebuilding industry to younger girls. The construction environment is predominantly male; however, I have definitely noticed more ladies branching into different roles within the industry. I personally work with Women in Property, a networking group involving women at various stages in their career, including many young female professionals which is excellent to see. Ultimately, communication is key and everyone at Spitfire works together to strive towards the same end goal.”
