Influence invests in the next generation with three new design appointments

East Midlands landscape architecture practice Influence Landscape Planning & Design has welcomed three new Design Assistants to its team.

Joining the business are Keira Attridge, and students Isabelle Henderson and Jay Charles, each bringing different educational backgrounds and experiences to the Newark-based practice.

The appointments reinforce Influence’s commitment to developing future talent and demonstrate different routes into the career of landscape architecture.

The hires mark the latest investment in people by the practice, which moved to larger offices in Newark last year to accommodate its growing team and increasing portfolio.

Keira Attridge returns to Influence after previously completing a five-month student placement. Having recently graduated with a degree in Geography from University of Lincoln, she has joined the Influence team full-time.

Architecture graduate also from the University of Lincoln, Isabelle Henderson, has joined the team full-time as she looks to expand her skills into landscape design.

Jay Charles joins Influence following the completion of his A-Levels. Having previously undertaken two work experience placements during his time at school, he now works with the practice two days a week while studying Countryside Management at Nottingham Trent University.

Together, the appointments reflect Influence's commitment to supporting young people from a range of educational backgrounds, whether through university placements, graduate opportunities or from school with flexible employment alongside further study.

Sara Boland, Managing Director of Influence Landscape Planning & Design, said: "It’s fantastic to welcome Keira, Isabelle and Jay to the team. They have all taken different routes to joining us, which reflects the diversity of pathways into landscape architecture and environmental design.

"As our business continues to grow, investing in people is just as important as investing in our services. We are passionate about giving young people the opportunity to experience the profession, develop practical skills and build rewarding careers. Continuing to strengthen the design and technical skills within our team as we grow ensures we can keep delivering the high-quality, creative solutions our clients value."

Keira Attridge said: "Having previously completed a placement with Influence, I already knew it was a supportive and collaborative team, so I was so pleased to return after graduating. It's exciting to be working on live projects and continuing to develop my skills while learning from experienced colleagues."

Isabelle Henderson said: "My placement year is a great opportunity to bridge university learning with professional practice. I'm looking forward to gaining hands-on experience across a range of projects and learning more about the role landscape architecture plays in shaping sustainable places."

Jay Charles said: “After completing work experience with Influence on two occasions, I knew it was somewhere I wanted to return to. Being able to work while studying Countryside Management gives me the opportunity to build practical experience alongside my education, and I'm excited to see where that leads."

The three appointments form part of Influence’s growth strategy, strengthening its in-house expertise while ensuring the next generation of landscape professionals has the opportunity to enter the profession.