Women In Property New Regional Chairman
Anna Philips, solicitor at South West law firm Foot Anstey, is the new Chairman of the Devon and Cornwall Satellite branch of the National Association of Women in Property.
Women in Property has 250 members within the South West and over 1,500 members nationally, representing every profession in property and construction offering opportunities to gain knowledge, exchange views and create business.
Devon and Cornwall Satellite branch holds regular events for members and their guests. This year’s programme includes networking events in Truro, Exeter Plymouth and Taunton, a seminar on property taxation, site visits including ‘behind the scenes’ at a National Trust property and social events like the ever popular Plymouth World Fireworks competition in August.
Anna Philips said “The Association’s core activities centre on meeting fellow professionals as well as encouraging and supporting our female colleagues, our peers and those just starting out in the industry. We actively encourage girls and young women to enter property and construction professions, which are still under represented by women, through career fairs and visits to schools.
“This year we are expanding our student award scheme. Launched last year as part of our 20th Birthday celebration, it was open to second year students studying the built environment at 23 universities. The winner Emma Birchall, studying Construction at Exeter College, received £500, free membership of the Association and an offer of a mentor to help them in their first job. The regional winners then competed for the National Prize.
“In 2008 the format will remain the same but increasing the number of participating universities will open up the award scheme to more students. This year our local award will be open to students from The University of Plymouth, University of Bristol and the University of the West of England.”
Kate Hamilton solicitor at Stephens & Scown will be Anna’s vice chairman.
The Association, whose membership includes architects, surveyors, planners, lawyers and other property professionals, encourages girls and women to go into the world of property and supports the retention of women in the industry through its unique mentoring programme.
Published 28/03/2008
