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What is your role and what will you do at SPA?

I am very excited to introduce myself as the new Social Value Advisor at SPA.  This is a role that deeply resonates with me, as it involves driving positive change and helping communities across Scotland benefit from public sector projects.  The primary function of my role is to embed social value into the heart of procurement processes across the SPA.  I will be working closely with Partners to help them maximise social value in their projects ensuring that a collaborative approach is taken to co-create solutions that meet the unique needs of different communities across Scotland.  

Tell us about your background and how you got into this role?

I’ve worked in the construction sector for over 7 years and as a former HR Manager for a main contractor, my career took a significant shift when I became involved in the management and delivery of community benefits projects.  I was tasked with developing a range of sustainable programmes that provided employment, training and other opportunities to local communities as part of our construction projects. 

It was through this work that I saw firsthand the incredible impact these social value projects had to transform lives and create a lasting legacy across communities in Scotland. The positive change these initiatives brought to local communities was clear and after managing a series of successful community benefits projects, I realised this is where my true passion lay.  The tangible outcomes are immensely rewarding to all stakeholders involved in any social value project and I'm excited to assist partners of SPA in delivering lasting benefits to their communities.  

What attracted you to join SPA?

It was an easy decision for me to join the amazing team at SPA as their values align closely with my own.  SPA has built an outstanding reputation in the construction sector, largely due to its strong commitment to embed social value in public sector projects. What really sets SPA apart is its focus on creating lasting, positive impacts for communities across Scotland.   The success of SPA’s Rebate and Community Benefits programmes speak for itself – it has transformed communities and enriched so many lives.  I am excited to be part of an organisation that prioritises making meaningful changes and look forward to contributing to that mission alongside a like-minded team. 

What are you passionate about and enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work, I’m passionate about travelling and experiencing new cultures.  I love exploring new places and meeting new people.  I am also the wife of a farmer so much of my free time is spent being fully immersed in the rural lifestyle which is a fulfilling way to connect with nature and understand the hard work that goes into farming. 

What are you most excited about in your new role?

I’m really looking forward to collaborating with SPA’s network to develop initiatives that create lasting positive change.