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Belinda Dods
Senior Landscape Architect at AECOM
Professional Background
Belinda Dods is an accomplished landscape architect with a diverse and multifaceted career spanning various domains, including urban design, finance, and banking. Currently serving as a Senior Landscape Architect at AECOM, Belinda combines her passion for landscape architecture and urban planning to create sustainable and aesthetically pleasing designs that enhance urban environments. Her expertise in landscape design not only reflects her creative vision but also her commitment to improving community spaces and ecosystem health.
Prior to her role at AECOM, Belinda honed her skills as a Graduate Landscape Architect at HASSELL, a prominent design firm known for its commitment to innovative and sustainable design practices. During her time there, she was involved in several key projects that emphasized environmental stewardship and community engagement. This foundational experience helped her develop a robust portfolio and a deep understanding of the dynamics between natural landscapes and urban architecture.
Belinda's career path also includes significant contributions as an Urban Design Protocol Assistant at New Zealand’s Ministry for the Environment, where she played a vital role in promoting sustainable practices in urban development. This position allowed her to collaborate with various stakeholders, enhancing her analytical skills and knowledge of policy implications related to landscape architecture and urban design.
In addition, Belinda has a strong background in finance and international banking, having worked as an Analyst at Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation and as an International Banker at Bank of New Zealand. This unique blend of finance and design expertise equips her with a comprehensive perspective on project feasibility and economic viability within the landscape architecture field. Her ability to navigate both creative and financial realms makes her an asset in project management and strategic planning for landscape projects.
Education and Achievements
Belinda Dods' educational background is as diverse as her professional experience. She holds a Bachelor of Design (BDES) in Landscape Architecture from Victoria University of Wellington, where she developed a strong foundation in the principles of landscape design and environmental planning. Her studies prepared her to tackle complex design challenges and fostered a deep appreciation for the impact of well-designed landscapes on human experiences.
In addition to her qualifications in landscape architecture, Belinda earned a Bachelor of Commerce (BCOM) in Finance from the University of Otago. This dual focus on financial principles complements her design skills, enabling her to assess the economic implications of landscape projects critically. This combination of design and finance makes her particularly adept at managing budgets and resources effectively in her current role.
Belinda also pursued a Graduate Diploma in Clothing and Textile Sciences at the University of Otago, where she acquired a nuanced understanding of materials and aesthetics. This knowledge can be instrumental in selecting the right landscape materials and textures, adding another layer of depth to her design projects.
Throughout her career, Belinda has achieved notable success in various roles, contributing significantly to project teams and advancing best practices in landscape architecture. Her commitment to continuous learning and professional development is evidenced by her active participation in industry-related workshops and seminars, keeping abreast of the latest trends and technologies in the field.
Achievements
Belinda's contributions to the field of landscape architecture extend beyond her job titles, as she has been a part of various impactful projects focused on sustainability and community enhancement. She has successfully collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, showcasing her ability to bridge the gap between design, policy, and finance.
Among her notable achievements, Belinda has received recognition for her outstanding contributions to urban design projects that prioritize ecological sustainability and social equity. Her designs have often been celebrated for their innovative approaches to integrating green spaces within urban settings, thereby enhancing the quality of life for residents and fostering community connections.
Belinda stands out not only for her technical skills but also for her collaborative spirit, making her a sought-after team member in any project. Her versatile background and ability to communicate effectively across different disciplines enable her to make valuable contributions to holistic design solutions.
As she continues her journey in landscape architecture, Belinda Dods remains a driving force for positive change in urban environments, merging her extensive knowledge and experiences in design and finance to create spaces that inspire, support, and nurture communities.