Q&A: Five minutes with Charlotte Roberts, head of London retail at Bruce Gillingham Pollard

What does your job entail?

I run our central London retail team of 10 people, working with key landlords and developers within central London’s retail and restaurant market.

What do you like most about the property industry?

The fascinating people I meet. I feel privileged to have met so many interesting and passionate people in this industry, from retail and restaurant founders to senior industry professionals. I am also privileged to have an incredible team around me – one of the best things about my job.

And what do you dislike most about it?

I think it can still at times feel like a very male-oriented industry. But I do believe this is changing, with some incredible and inspiring women in senior leadership roles.

What is your favourite building?

I love the Liberty building on Great Marlborough Street [in central London]. It is such an iconic London building steeped in history, yet it hosts a treasure trove of wonderfully curated and progressive brands. I think it is brilliant that Topshop is relaunching there: the juxtaposition of old and new and both with British DNA at their heart. And the Liberty brand itself is incredible – wonderful collaborations with such a diverse range of contemporary brands.

Who in property has inspired you?

The team at Bruce Gillingham Pollard. They are an inspirational and super-hard-working group of people who are also the best energy and fun to work with, which is essential when times get a little stressful – as they sometimes do.

If you had not gone into property, what would you be doing instead?

I have always dreamed of creating a hospitality destination, mixing great interior design, a wonderful garden using homegrown produce in an amazing restaurant and a gym, sauna and spa in the beautiful British countryside.

What would you change about the property industry?

I would love to see lots more women coming through the ranks to senior leadership levels.

What barriers or challenges have you overcome?

When I started leading a team, I definitely experienced a bit of imposter syndrome. As time has gone on, I have come to realise that we are all feeling a bit like that in different ways. It is a point I always make to our new graduates: don’t believe everyone is as confident as they seem.

What are you most proud of in your career?

The role I have played in making Bruce Gillingham Pollard the company it is today. Although we are now a much bigger company with separate investment, leasing, tenant rep and lease consultancy teams, the company culture, DNA and ethos have stayed exactly the same. Several of the team have been with us since the year the business launched, which is something we are very proud of.

What do you value in people?

People who are passionate and hard-working with a great energy and sense of humour. Kindness always, and an ability to keep calm under pressure.

What advice would you give someone starting a career in the property industry?

The one thing I wish someone had told me is to make that call and get the meeting with that person who seems overwhelming. That feeling never goes away; we are all figuring it out as we go along.