Celebrating a Legacy: Jayne Leyland’s Impact on Amenity Turf Management as She Retires

Jayne Leyland Retires After Over 30 Years of Transforming Amenity Turf Management

After more than three decades of pioneering advancements in amenity turf management, Jayne Leyland, Product Portfolio Director at Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS), has announced her retirement. Her departure marks the conclusion of a remarkable 13-year tenure at OAS and a distinguished career that has significantly shaped the turf and landscaping industry.

Leyland joined Rigby Taylor in 2012, which later evolved into OAS in 2021. Throughout her career, she has been a driving force behind some of the company’s most innovative and sustainable product developments. Notably, she spearheaded the creation of the Carbon4Grass seed range, a groundbreaking product that not only delivers superior performance but also offers carbon sequestration benefits. This innovation was recently honored as Pro Landscaper’s Sustainable Product of the Year for 2024.

In addition to her work on Carbon4Grass, Leyland has been instrumental in advancing tetraploid grass seed technology, which has led to the development of stronger, more resilient grass swards that establish faster and exhibit improved stress tolerance. Her extensive technical knowledge and customer-focused approach have earned her widespread respect within the industry.

Leyland has also played a crucial role in expanding OAS’s research and trial programs, ensuring that product innovations are scientifically grounded and aligned with industry needs. Her commitment to sustainable turf care has left an indelible mark on the company and the sector as a whole.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Leyland was inducted into the Grounds Management Association Hall of Fame in 2024, an honor that celebrates lifetime achievement and service to the groundskeeping profession.

Reflecting on her career, Leyland expressed gratitude for her time in the industry: “It’s been a privilege to work in such a fast-moving and passionate field. I’ve loved collaborating with customers, colleagues, and partners who care deeply about the land they manage and the standards they uphold. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together at OAS and look forward to seeing the company continue to develop and grow.”

Richard Walton, Managing Director at OAS, praised Leyland’s leadership and commitment, stating, “Jayne’s vision and expertise have profoundly shaped our product portfolio and sustainability strategy. Her ability to translate complex science into practical, impactful solutions has made her an invaluable part of our team. We’re grateful for her dedication over the past 13 years and wish her the very best in her retirement.”

Leyland’s background in greenkeeping and agronomy, coupled with her earlier work at Barenbrug, has earned her respect across the amenity and sports turf sectors. Her influence extends beyond product development into training, education, and mentoring the next generation of turf professionals.

As she embarks on this new chapter, Jayne Leyland leaves behind a legacy of innovation and a stronger, more sustainable approach to managing amenity landscapes. Her departure will undoubtedly be felt across the industry, but her contributions will continue to inspire future advancements in turf management.