Diversity and gender equality simply must not be a tick box exercise. If we are to truly move the dial in the property world then any action taken on this subject must be authentic, future-focused and sustainable, writes James Gray.
We understand and recognise the influence Cluttons has in this industry, and the importance of projects like EG’s Future Female Leaders as part of a long-term and collaborative commitment to make a positive impact in this field.
This year’s Future Female Leaders event was a complete success, with our very own Lucy Whitfield, an associate at Cluttons, delivering an excellent presentation as part of the programme. Social media was alive with congratulations to all of the nine excellent speakers, each of whom fuels confidence in the future of our industry.
Lucy herself chose to concentrate her presentation on why we should be reigniting passion into the property industry and her passion was clear for all to see as the room responded with high levels of energy. Her presentation raised a number of emotions, was inspirational and really reinforced the call to arms to the industry – not just to talk about change but to actually deliver the change.
Lucy’s presentation covered some difficult topics, including how we deal with the ongoing image problem that business, and especially residential surveying, still faces; how the RICS is currently seen as letting talent down, and why the APC route to qualification is no longer fit for purpose. These are topics that would not be discussed, let alone so openly, until fairly recently and we couldn’t be prouder of how Lucy articulated the very real issues, while suggesting ways to overcome them.
Ultimately, Cluttons wants to take this forward and work with people like Lucy, her fellow Future Female Leaders and organisations like EG to make a long-lasting positive change in the industry.
After all, property plays such an important role in our lives and to future-proof the industry and attract the best talent, we need inspirational leaders, better equality, respect and inclusivity. It is our job to nurture this talent through programmes like FFL which both tackles important topics that open up the right discussions and celebrates and promotes achievements to build confidence in our stars of the future.
Lots to think about, but even more to do. Cluttons is up for it.
James Gray is managing partner at Cluttons
