Q&A: Five minutes with Nichola Pughe, director of valuations at Ringley Group

How did you join the property industry?

After graduating from Nottingham Trent University with a degree in real estate, I joined a small surveying firm in east London as a commercial agent, which gave me a really comprehensive grounding before joining Ringley three years ago.

What does your job entail?

I always say I have three jobs rolled into one. My valuation work is the core of my role and my focus for about half my average week. The remainder of my time is spent upskilling my brilliant (and growing) team and creating new business opportunities. I really enjoy the variety and no two days are the same.

What do you like most about the industry?

Its openness. I have always enjoyed working in property as the industry and my own career have evolved. I feel very much at home in a profession that is empowering and allows my personality to shine; and my skills and experience make a real difference to our clients.

And what do you dislike most about it?

At Ringley, we recruit on the basis of talent, potential, personality and work ethic, but I don’t see this replicated across the broader industry, which can still be a closed shop for those from underprivileged backgrounds.

What is your favourite building?

I have lived in London for the past 12 years and have always said The Gherkin is my favourite. Before the days of Google Maps and mobile phones, no matter where I was in London, I wouldn’t be lost if I found The Gherkin.

Who in property has inspired you?

Our group chief executive and founder Mary-Anne Bowring is one of a kind: a fantastic entrepreneur who leads by example and is a fantastic role model not only for female colleagues but for the whole team.

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

Probably something completely different, like hair and beauty (I’m open for bookings). I am sure my ambition and entrepreneurial streak would still shine through and before long I’d be building a chain of salons.

What would you change about the property industry?

I would like clients to be less blinkered and more imaginative when mandating professional services firms. While the big blue-chip agencies are a safe and obvious bet, there are so many dynamic challenger firms in the market. It would be encouraging to see a more diverse and expansive playing field.

What barriers or challenges have you overcome?

I am proud that everything I have achieved in my career has been a result of my own hard work and dedication, without the help and support that those from a more privileged background typically benefit from.

What are you most proud of in your career?

My team. I can honestly say I have hired a fantastic team; over half are female and I am a fervent advocate for gender equality. I am proud of the opportunities I have been given to champion women in real estate at various industry events and forums.

What do you value in people?

Integrity. I always value someone who treats all levels of a business with the same level of respect. I am the same person whether I am speaking to a chief executive or a cloakroom attendant, and I look out for this trait in others.

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

Strive to be the best but also allow yourself to be taught by those who know better.