Q&A: Five minutes with Fiona Duffy, planner at Boyer (part of Leaders Romans Group)

How did you join the property industry?

After completing my master’s degree, I joined Boyer in 2023 through its graduate recruitment programme. Before this, I trained as a primary school teacher, but I found myself constantly linking lessons back to geography and the city we live in. That passion for place and environment inspired me to make a career change to planning.

What does your job entail?

I work on a wide range of projects across London and the South East, including residential and student housing schemes, energy infrastructure projects and mixed-use developments.

What do you like most about the industry?

The variety of projects and the tangible impact they have. No two schemes are ever the same – each brings its own challenges and opportunities. I find it rewarding to see how planning decisions shape communities. I also enjoy the collaborative nature of the work.

And what do you dislike most about it?

One aspect I find challenging is the length and complexity of the planning process. It can be frustrating when projects are delayed due to factors outside our control.

What is your favourite building?

The Victoria and Albert Museum [in Kensington] because it always feels special the moment I walk in. As soon as I enter, I love looking up at the Torrijos ceiling. That first impression sets the tone for the whole visit and makes me appreciate not just the collections inside, but the building itself as a work of art.

Who in property has inspired you?

[Barrister and author] Hashi Mohamed inspires me with the way he talks about housing and planning. His journey shows how much impact the built environment has on people’s lives. He makes it clear that property isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about shaping communities and opportunities.

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

I’d probably still be working with children. I’ve always enjoyed the energy and creativity they bring, and there is something really rewarding about helping them learn and grow.

What would you change about the industry?

I’d make the process more efficient and predictable. The system can feel overly complex and slow, which creates uncertainty for applicants, local authorities and communities. Streamlining procedures, while still ensuring proper consultation and scrutiny, would help deliver much-needed development more quickly and give everyone greater confidence in outcomes.

What challenges have you overcome?

Adapting quickly from academic study to the pace and complexity of real projects. I’ve learned to manage competing priorities, navigate the planning process and build confidence through organisation, clear communication and persistence.

What are you most proud of in your career?

The work I’ve done on the installation of onshore power units along the River Thames. This offers an alternative sustainable energy source for London’s water transport, in place of the diesel generators that are currently used.

What do you value in people?

Honesty. Being open and straightforward builds trust and makes collaboration more effective.

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

Be inquisitive, ask questions, seek out different perspectives and take every opportunity to learn from colleagues, stakeholders and communities. This helped me a lot.