News
21/10/2025
National recognition for the Highwood women shaping the future of construction
Two of Highwood Group’s most senior women have achieved national recognition for their leadership and impact within the UK construction industry – a testament to both their individual excellence and the company’s commitment to championing female leadership in the built environment.
Sam Andrews, Group Managing Surveyor, was named a finalist for the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Women in Construction Awards. The honour celebrates an exceptional 30-year career defined by technical expertise, resilience and mentorship in a sector where women continue to be underrepresented.
Sam’s shortlisting among the UK’s most influential women in construction underscores a career built on excellence and progress. She has led the delivery of complex developments, inspired colleagues across disciplines and helped shape Highwood’s culture of opportunity and integrity.
“I’m deeply honoured to be recognised among so many inspiring women who are shaping the future of construction,” revealed Sam on her nomination. “Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work with exceptional teams and mentors who’ve supported and challenged me – this recognition reflects their influence as much as my own journey.”
“Being named a finalist is itself an incredible recognition,” added Natalie Brown, Group Finance Director at Highwood. “It’s one that reflects her decades of tireless work and the impact she’s had on both Highwood and the wider industry.”
Left to right, Natalie Brown (Finance Director), Phil Prosser (Managing Director, Homes), Sam Andrews (Group Managing Surveyor) and Anthony Rouse (Commercial Director) at the 2025 Women in Construction Awards
Sam and Anthony at the 2025 Women in Construction Awards
Left to right: Martin Hawthorn (Planning Director), Anthony Rouse, Simon Beech (Land & Sales Director), Natalie Brown, Steve Matthews (Managing Director, Construction) and Phil Prosser at the AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE UK & Ireland Finance Awards 2025
Celebrating the strength of women’s leadership
Hot on the heels of Sam’s announcement, Highwood made it a double celebration when Natalie Brown received a shortlisting in the prestigious Finance Business Leader of the Year category at the AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE 25 UK & Ireland Finance Awards 2025. The nomination recognises Natalie’s strategic financial leadership within the highly competitive construction and development sector and her success in driving performance, innovation and long-term value across the organisation.
On hearing the news she had made the coveted finalist shortlisting, Natalie was quick to praise the support of her team:
“This recognition is especially meaningful as it reflects not just individual leadership but the shared commitment and innovation of the incredible team I work with every day at Highwood. I’m proud to represent such a talented and dedicated group.”
Together, Sam and Natalie’s achievements highlight the strength of Highwood’s leadership and the growing influence of women who are shaping the future of construction – across both operational and strategic roles.