Branch News Item

Branch: South East
Date: 02 Oct 2007
Title: Diversity Seminar – “Inspirations & Aspirations”

Around 40 members and guests congregated in Cushman & Wakefield’s Portman Square offices to listen to the inspirations and aspirations of three of property’s most prominent women: Liz Peace, CEO of the British Property Federation; Jo Thwaites, Project Sponsor of Historic Royal Palaces; and Linda Winstanley, Property Director of Regent Street Direct.

The three women were very different in many ways, but with a common thread, they all delight in their careers and have great passion for the property industry.

Our speakers’ inspirations included male and female mentors who supported and guided them in their career choices; the buildings (and palaces) they work with every day; and their delight in giving something back to the next generation of property professionals through their involvement with local schools, the RICS and other organizations.

Aspirations were along the same lines – to give something back and continue to make a difference – be that through charity involvement, lobbying the government, mentoring other women or men as they climb the ladder. All envisaged a continuation of their property career and look forward to bigger and more complex challenges including spreading awareness of the importance of flexibility in the workplace in order to retain staff, planning how to address fire safety issues in buildings that are hundred’s of years old, and playing an integral part in the continued redevelopment of one of the UK’s most prestigious and historical retail quarters.

It was a delight to hear our speakers’ tales and following the session we had the opportunity to network and quiz them on the finer points of their views and ideas, over drinks and canapés.

Our thanks to Joanna Embling of Cushman and Wakefield for chairing the seminar and for Cushman and Wakefield’s generous hospitality on the evening.

All attendees agreed that the evening reinforced to us what a fantastic industry we’re involved in and how inspiration can be found in a multitude of ways. One member (Head of Business Development at her firm, who shall remain nameless!) was even heard to mention “I want her job!” after hearing Jo Thwaites speak. To her and anyone else considering a change of career into property, remember - it’s never too late!

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