Celebrating International Women’s Day 2022
Danielle Lannon (left) and Rebecca Gibson (right)
Principle is proud to support International Women’s Day and to be joining organisations across the world in celebrating the achievements of women and in raising the awareness of the importance of gender equality.
Property management has a history of having a male dominated workforce and, at Principle, we are very proud to be breaking the mould with an almost 50-50 gender split. 48% of our colleagues are female working across a variety of roles including finance, operations, business development, customer service and property management.
Brett Williams, founder and managing director at Principle commented: “Our industry is perceived as quite male dominated but almost half of the workforce at Principle are women. This was never a conscious move, we always employ the person who is best for the job and fits with the values and culture we have here at Principle.
“I think it’s fitting to take this day to listen to what some of the women in our business have to say about their careers and experiences. We really do have an incredible team of people working for Principle and today’s a great day to acknowledge their successes and say thank you”.
In recognition of International Women’s Day, two female members of the Principle team shared their own take on what it’s like to have a career within the property management industry. Read more about their experiences below.
DANIELLE LANNON BSc (Hons) MRICS MIRPM
Associate Director
How long have you worked in Property Management and for Principle?
I originally started working in property in 2009 working in an estate agent as part of a level 3 business and administration apprenticeship placement, I then moved to Bigwood Chartered Surveyors in 2010 where I ventured into property management. I have been at Principle almost three years, starting here in April 2019.
What’s your role at Principle?
I am an Associate Director and undertake general property management duties across my portfolio whilst developing and maintaining client relationships with RMC clients, including some involvement with aspects of new business from RMCs.
Why did you choose this career?
It was more of a “the career chose me” as cliché as that sounds. I really didn’t know what property management (and particularly service charge management) was before I was in it. I started doing a business administrator role with Bigwood and was exposed to the world of property management which really interested me, and I have worked my way up from there.
What’s your favourite part of your job?
No two days are the same, there is always something new to learn. I also enjoy building working relationships with clients and helping them to maintain their love for their communities.
What piece of advice would you give someone looking to get into Property Management?
If you thrive on a challenge and enjoy the variety of no two days being the same, then this job is for you!
REBECCA GIBSON LLB (Hons)
Client Services Manager
How long have you worked in Property Management and for Principle?
I’ve been working in the leasehold sector for 8 years, previously with a large firm of solicitors specialising in leasehold and property management. I have been working at Principle in Property Management for the last 3 years.
What’s your role at Principle?
My role is Client Services Manager, ensuring we deliver the best possible service to our clients and customers by overseeing our Customer Service team. I also organise, complete and review client reports to ensure we are meeting all agreed performance goals, and I am responsible for overseeing compliance to ensure the homes we look after are safe places to live.
Why did you choose this career?
I enjoy working in a fast-paced environment where I can make a positive impact on the lives of my colleagues, our clients, and the people living in the homes we look after.
What’s your favourite part of your job?
Looking after the Customer Service team, championing the challenging work they do every day and striving to continuously improve our processes to ensure we are always top of our game when it comes to the service we provide.
What piece of advice would you give someone looking to get into Property Management?
Property Management is fast paced and can be tough at times as you are responsible for people’s homes and have a direct influence on how happy, safe and comfortable they feel there. But it is extremely rewarding when you see the positive impact of a job well done.
If you are interested in kick starting your career in property management in a supportive and values-driven team, see our current vacancies here.