Originally from Omagh, Northern Ireland, Leanne moved to Fishguard in Pembrokeshire when she was 14. She is married to David, a University Lecturer, and they have one son, 21-year-old Adam who is at Aberystwyth University. She is currently completing a degree in Business Management – Leadership Practice with the Open University and hopes to graduate in 2024.

What is your role at Alaster Anderson?

As Business Operations Director I make sure the whole business runs smoothly, from invoicing to risk assessments, health and safety to getting in place our ISOs for environmental health and quality assurance. But the most important part is liaising with clients so we provide great customer care.

Is there a garden that has inspired you?

My Granddad turned a couple of acres of Irish bogland into plush gardens, including beautiful lawns with perfect drainage. Only now do I realise how much work he put in!

What is your favourite plant and why?

Hydrangea. I hadn’t really taken much notice of this beautiful flower until I started working with Alaster, then I saw the range of different varieties and how stunning they look in any garden. I particularly like Hydrangea Annabelle and Hydrangea Runaway Bride.

What is your favourite project?

I really enjoyed seeing our project in Effingham, southwest London, come together. Alaster worked with a designer to install lots of planting and large trees, and it was fabulous to witness the planting skills of the team.  One year on, it has been great to see how the plants have become established and how amazing the garden looks. I also love the garden we have just completed in St John’s Wood. The garden was designed by Alaster and Imogen and the end result exactly matches the concept and visualisations. It is a testament to Alaster and Imogen’s creativity and the skill and workmanship of the team.

What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned at Alaster Anderson?

All of it! I was a total garden novice when I started working for Alaster but over the past 3.5 years I have learned so much and have enjoyed learning about all aspects of gardening. So much so, I have been inspired to become quite green fingered and have spent a lot of time in my own garden recently. I have learned what plants are best for the area and soil etc. and my weekends are now spent weeding or getting excited over another new plant from the garden centre. I actually asked for a Hori Hori for my birthday – a Japanese gardening tool the team use a lot! 

What do you love about your job?

I love the fact that we're all a family and the banter we share together. There is something different going on every day and I relish being able to help build something great as we develop the business. Alaster has a vision and my role is to put everything in place to make it happen. It's wonderfully rewarding.

You can reach us on 0207 305 7183 or email at enquire@alasteranderson.com