The awards dinner, which took place last night at The Porter Tun in London, was attended by the country’s top designers, developers, architects and occupiers under the age of 35. It celebrated the achievements and successes of young professionals in the commercial property sector across the UK, and the leaders who have inspired them.

The BCO NextGen Rising Star award recognises an under 35s outstanding contribution to the office sector in their region. Claire Anne Harkins, who manages all aspects of McLaughlin and Harvey’s Workspace division, was named as Scotland’s winner by a panel of local judges.

The judges were impressed with Claire’s quick ascension through the firm, having joined McLaughlin and Harvey in an HR and admin position before becoming project manager, and now general manager, where she is helping shape the business’ future and is recognised as being well-trusted and loved by her clients.

In the past three years, she has been responsible for delivering Scottish Power into its new Glasgow HQ and supporting a Fortune 200 company transition to a more flexible working style. Across projects, Claire has been the lead interface between all moving parts, liaising between clients, architects and designers to deliver a seamless execution. The judges agreed her focus on client relations marked Claire as a stand-out candidate for Scotland’s next ‘Rising Star.’

The judges were also impressed with Claire’s tireless dedication to support other talent in the industry through her active role in the BCO NextGen chapter in Scotland and the Women in Property Group. The judges celebrated her understanding of the importance of attracting new and diverse talent into the industry.

The Awards are part of the BCO’s NextGen programme, which sets out to mentor and encourage the next generation of professionals to become future leaders in the industry, whilst providing a platform for new talent to share ideas.

Gary Scott, director at The JR Group and chair of the BCO Scottish chapter, said: “The importance of attracting new talent to our industry cannot be overstated and Claire’s effort to promote both her own firm and the BCO shines through her nomination.

“Her network is evidently as expansive as her passion for office design, which has an infectious impact on those around her. My congratulations to you, Claire, you embody the values of the BCO’s NextGen programme and are a worthy winner of our Rising Star award.”

Paul Patenall, president of the BCO, added: “The contribution Claire has made to the industry in such a short space of time is a testament to her passion and hard work – to develop such trust across such an impressive network of clients and peers is no mean feat. Congratulations, Claire, a most deserving winner!”