The firm’s development director on changing her career path, the importance of collaboration and communication and getting the day off to a good start
Why did you choose construction at a career?
I fell in love with architecture when I was 10, during the renovations of our family home. From then on, I knew I wanted to be an architect, and I felt lucky I didn’t face the usual challenges of working out which career path to take.
Surprisingly, during my architecture degree, I realised it wasn’t quite the right fit for me. But I knew I wanted to stay in the built environment, so I took a slightly different route into the industry and went into quantity surveying.
Fifteen years later, I shifted roles again, moving from my QS role on One Leadenhall to the development team at Brookfield Properties, where I now work as a development director.
What are you most proud of in your career to date?
The teams I have worked in and worked with, especially the in-house specialist teams we have at Brookfield Properties. It’s brilliant to be able to tap into and learn from people in our operations, leasing, marketing, asset management, finance and legal groups.
What has been the biggest challenge of your career to date?
Being a part of the project team for the Tate Modern extension. While working on such a significant landmark was very exciting, it also came with a lot of challenges; the building in itself is a “piece of art”.
If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?
There are so many different roles within the built environment that people don’t know about or fully understand. I think we can do so much better to educate the younger generations on what roles exist and what they look like day-to-day. We would be much better off if we could get more talent into the industry to start.
What is the most helpful advice that you have been given?
The answer is important, but communicating it to your audience is just as important. Knowing what should be done is meaningless if it cannot be understood.
Name your favourite building in the world?
St Paul’s Cathedral. It’s an incredible building that has stood the test of time. I think it’s fantastic that it was built in the 17th century and is still driving and influencing the planning of the City of London today.
Which famous building do you wish you had worked on?
It would have been amazing to work on Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona Pavilion. Who knows what I could have contributed, but imagine being involved in something that was at the time temporary, so small and simple, but went on to shape architecture and furniture design for decades to come.
What single piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in your profession?
Be inquisitive, find yourself a great mentor/sponsor (I have been incredibly fortunate throughout my career on this) and know that there is no such thing as a perfect career. Start somewhere, see where that door takes you and what new doors open. Just keep moving forward through those doors.
Who do you most admire in the construction industry?
I admire the influence that the industry has on everyone. It creates the houses we live in, our offices, and the spaces we mix in; it has an everyday impact on everyone’s lives.
What is it like being you (and doing your job)?
Busy. No day is the same. I start the day with a plan and finish having accomplished part of that plan (maybe) and a lot of other things.
Do you have a life philosophy?
Nothing is ever as good or bad as it seems.
What do you think your best quality is?
I think my friends and colleagues would probably describe me as loyal and dependable.
What trait do you most dislike in yourself? And in other people?
Patience isn’t my strongest suit. In others I don’t like arrogance or egos. Mutual respect is crucial for working relationships, collaboration across the board is key.
Name three things that you like
Travel, watching sport (particularly when Australia win) and London when the sun comes out – the place just comes alive!
Tell us about a secret skill that we don’t know you have
If I answer, then it won’t be a secret anymore!
What is your most prized possession?
Some earrings that my grandmother gave me which are of great sentimental value.
Early bird or night owl?
I wouldn’t say I’m a morning person, but I do generally get to work early. There is something satisfying about getting things done before other people have arrived.
What is your favourite food?
Japanese.
What would your superpower be?
Teleporting - transport can be really time-consuming!
No comments yet