Name: Sammi Johnstone
Job title: Senior associate partner at Jones Hargreaves
What I do: As a chartered building surveyor, I have the opportunity to work with a diverse range of commercial property clients, offering services that span from managing complex construction projects to providing expert advice on dilapidations claims and property acquisitions. One of the aspects I truly enjoy about my role is the constant variety – no two days are ever the same. Whether I’m travelling to different sites or engaging with new clients, the blend of technical expertise, client interaction, and on-the-ground project management makes my career both rewarding and continually exciting. Many of my clients require a multidisciplinary approach, so I regularly collaborate with colleagues from our ESG and MEP disciplines to tackle complex and challenging projects. This collaborative aspect is particularly rewarding, as it allows me to continually grow, learn, and adapt in an ever-evolving property landscape. Recently, I was promoted to lead the Glasgow office of Jones Hargreaves. In this new role, I work closely with our dedicated team to provide exceptional service to a broad range of clients across Scotland, driving forward our commitment to excellence in the property sector.
Why I got into the property industry: I initially pursued a degree in zoology at the University of Glasgow due to my passion for animals and the environment. However, with my family deeply rooted in the property industry, I always had an interest in this field as a potential career. My passion for sustainability and creating environmentally conscious buildings drew me in. I’m also motivated by the desire to inspire the next generation of women to see property as a sector where they can thrive.
How I did it: After deciding to shift into the property industry, I completed a master’s degree in building surveying at Sheffield Hallam University. I loved delving into the subject, and soon after, I secured a graduate position at Cushman and Wakefield. This opened many doors for me as I worked alongside industry professionals to build both my expertise and professional network.
My first proper job: My first professional role was at Cushman and Wakefield, where I worked toward becoming a chartered building surveyor. I was promoted to senior building surveyor, and I stayed with the firm for over six years.
My first big break: My big break also came at Cushman and Wakefield. I applied for the role while I was still completing my master’s degree and went through a rigorous process of tests and interviews before securing a position that allowed me to grow and develop in the industry.
My inspiration(s): My biggest career inspiration has always been my dad. He introduced me to the idea of a career in property and believed I had the skills and determination to succeed as a chartered building surveyor. His success in the industry gave me the confidence to pursue this path.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is feeling like I’ve had to go above and beyond at certain points in my career to prove myself as a woman in the industry. While things have improved, those moments have only strengthened my resolve to excel in my role and champion others, especially women, who are doing incredible work in the sector.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: While qualifying as a chartered building surveyor was an incredible milestone, my proudest achievement has been heading up the Glasgow office for Jones Hargreaves. Since joining the team in 2021, I’ve been entrusted with the autonomy to work on exciting projects and take on leadership responsibilities that have propelled my career forward. Launching this office has been a significant career shift, giving me the opportunity to contribute to both the growth of the business and the success of our clients.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: One common misconception is that the property industry is about “who you know” rather than “what you know.” The industry has become far more accessible and while there’s always room for improvement, it’s encouraging to see people from all backgrounds entering and thriving in the sector.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: One issue I hear across the industry is that the benefits and compensation aren’t as equitable as in other sectors. It’s up to leaders, myself included, to ensure equal pay and benefits across the board and to challenge the status quo. At Jones Hargreaves, we’re committed to this, being recognised as a Living Wage Employer and named as a one of the Sunday Times’ “Best Places to Work” for our progressive working practices. Our goal is to push boundaries and ensure people can work to live, not live to work, which has historically been the case in some parts of the industry.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: I believe it’s crucial for the property industry to be accessible to everyone, regardless of background. I’m deeply committed to inspiring the next generation of surveyors who will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the built environment. Real change will only happen when diverse perspectives challenge the status quo, ensuring that the industry evolves to better reflect the communities it serves.
Why I’m so passionate about ESG: The built environment plays a significant role in contributing to the global carbon footprint, and it’s critical that we address this issue effectively. I’m encouraged by the fact that our clients are now prioritising ESG in their strategies, which reflects the growing momentum toward sustainable practices. At Jones Hargreaves, ESG is deeply embedded in everything we do, driving meaningful change across the industry. On a personal level, I’m driven by the desire to leave the world better than we found it. I take pride in my work, especially in how it helps reduce the carbon impact of commercial buildings across the country. For me, that’s a key measure of success and a meaningful way to contribute to a more sustainable future.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: Working at a growing consultancy like Jones Hargreaves has been incredibly rewarding, offering me the chance to learn and develop at every step. In five years, I aspire to become a partner, helping to drive continuous innovation and positive change across the business.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: I’d love to invite David Attenborough. Not only has he led an extraordinary life, exploring and uncovering so much of the natural world, but he’s also been a powerful voice for conservation. Hearing his stories and insights on animal welfare would be both educational and inspiring. I’d also invite my late gran, lovingly called ‘Queen Isa’. She was the matriarch of our family, always a voice of reason and a strong advocate for education. She believed in empowering yourself through knowledge, regardless of the discipline, to stand firmly on your own two feet. Having her at the table would be incredibly special.
What I do in my downtime: Motorcycling is a huge passion of mine. I’ve been fortunate enough to tour around Europe, including a couple of trips through the Alps. I’ve also been riding horses since I was three, and I have a Boston Terrier named Nova. Animals have always been my therapy.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: If I weren’t in this industry, I’d definitely be doing something related to animals. I once considered veterinary medicine, but eventually realised it wasn’t the right path for me.
My advice for someone just starting out: A strong work ethic is essential. Never take opportunities for granted, work hard, stay dedicated, and consistently showcase your best abilities. With perseverance and effort, you’ll go far in your career.
My motto/mantra: “No surrender.” This is my family motto, instilled in my sisters and me from a young age. To me, it signifies that no matter the challenges, with resilience and the right mindset, you can always find a way through. It holds such meaning in my family that I even have it tattooed in Gaelic!
