Real Estate Balance, the non-profit membership organisation working to address the gender imbalance within the UK property sector, has appointed Kaela Fenn-Smith as managing director.
'Kaela’s appointment represents an important new chapter for Real Estate Balance,' said Vivienne King, chair of real estate balance.
'Until now, the organisation’s success has been down to its hard-working volunteers. With Kaela in post as managing director, we have an experienced senior resource to support our objectives for our future as a leading change agent for gender balance.'
'Real Estate Balance is a unique organisation on an incredible mission, working to bring about a change in the corporate culture of our industry,' said Fenn-Smith. 'I have spent 25 years in property and I’ve been passionate about diversity throughout my career. I look forward to supporting women in real estate by engaging with the men and women leaders to deliver real practical change, so aspiration and ambition are not only accepted but achievable.'
Prior to joining Real Estate Balance, Fenn-Smith was at Landsec for seven years as head of commercial and a member of the executive team in London. Before joining Landsec, Fenn-Smith worked in director roles with JLL and CBRE.
The news follows the announcement last month of the launch of a new tool to promote gender diversity in the workplace.
The Real Estate Balance toolkit is a free online resource for managers and professionals working in property. With this tool, companies and individuals can download resources, research and best practice, said the organisation.
The toolkit covers three main themes, which were identified in Real Estate Balance surveys and following dialogue with the industry, and comprise leadership, culture and opportunity.
