What three words describe Workman?

Inclusive, diverse, challenging.

What has been your standout moment at Workman so far?

Thanks to the high standard of training and the convincing mock process that Workman has in place, I was successful in passing my APC, which was a major achievement. I have also been lucky enough during my employment at Workman to reflect on each year and think “I can’t believe I was involved with that”.

This was especially true in 2020, when I was part of the Workman team that helped with the management and set up of Manchester Airport Group’s sale of more than £340m of non-core property assets – its entire shareholding in MAG Investment Assets Limited (MAGIAL) – to international investment group Columbia Threadneedle Investments.

Can you tell us a bit about what Property Management means to you, and also to the business?

I think historically there have been assumptions in the real estate industry that property management contributes less than other sectors. However, over the past few years it has been very interesting to see the impact and value that property managers can add to a property, from looking at ESG initiatives, to diversifying and encouraging a return to the office. It is this part of my role I enjoy the most; seeing that we can make a difference.

Tell us about a time you’ve put your skills to their best use at Workman?

I am quite an organised person, and good at prioritising, so I think on a day-to-day basis I put my skills to good use managing lots of moving parts. This has proven particularly useful when dealing with issues such as managing historic disputes around arrears, which I have been able to navigate effectively.

What changes would you make to the wider property sector and why?

Firstly, I would improve the sustainability agenda. I think linking sustainability initiatives to business rate relief would encourage all parties to get more meaningfully involved.

Secondly, I would find ways to increase diversity and equality across the sector, although this is definitely improving. At Workman it is very helpful to have female partners to look up too.

What first led you into the property industry?

When I left school, I didn’t know what I wanted to do… but I did love looking at houses for sale!

My Grandad worked as a tax accountant at Bidwells for several years, and he suggested a career as a Chartered Surveyor.

What are your spare time pursuits and how do they feed into your role at Workman?

In my spare time I love travel and fitness. The great thing about my role is I get to visit new cities and areas, so I’m not sat behind a desk all day.

Having studied at the University College of Estate Management (UCEM), I’ve now gone on to become a tutor there, supporting students doing the undergraduate degree course. I had very positive female role models supporting me, so I believe it’s important for me now to give back to those who are entering the industry.

What is your favourite building worldwide, and why?

I would like to return to the Marina Bay Sands Hotel in Singapore. I visited the hotel when I was 18 and travelling, but didn’t pay to go to the viewing deck; I’d really like to return and have a swim in the pool there.

What three dinner party guests would you choose and why?

I’m not sure I need three guests, right now I would ask the animal behaviourist from the TV show “Dogs Behaving Badly” as I’m sure anyone that has been on a Teams call with me will have seen (or heard!) my dog, which was never to be allowed on the furniture, sat on the back of my office chair when I am working from home.