Q&A: Five minutes with Sarah Hazell, partner at Jones Hargreaves

How did you join the property industry?

I joined in 2007, originally in an admin role at Ashtenne Industrial Fund (now Mileway). During my five years there, I studied building surveying through distance learning at the University of Reading, while also qualifying as a commercial EPC assessor. The mix of hands-on experience and academic study gave me a clearer sense of direction and a solid understanding of the industry from the ground up.

What does your job entail?

I lead the Wales and South West region at Jones Hargreaves, combining technical surveying with team leadership, client management and strategic growth. I work closely with our head of Bristol and support
a team across a wide range of instructions, from technical due diligence to dilapidations and refurbishment projects.

What do you like most about the industry?

The best part is the variety: buildings are complex, no two instructions are ever the same and I am constantly learning. I enjoy the problem-solving aspect of the role – getting to understand an issue and finding realistic, practical solutions. There is also something satisfying about being able to see the physical outcome of a piece of work.

And what do you dislike most about it?

The industry hasn’t always been as inclusive as it should be, but I have seen significant movement in the right direction over the last 18 years and am confident this will continue.

What is your favourite building?

One of my favourite projects with Jones Hargreaves was the refurbishment of an industrial building in Fishponds, Bristol. The unit was in a real state of disrepair and the elevations were repeatedly targeted by graffiti. I encouraged the client to work with a local artist to create something more meaningful for the external walls. The outcome was a mural of sea creatures made up of images of Bristol landmarks. It resolved a longstanding issue and also added something positive to the community, which made it memorable.

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

I have always enjoyed being outside, especially by the coast, so a role focused on looking after landscapes and wildlife would definitely have appealed to me.

What would you change about the industry?

I would make it more accessible to people. The experienced professional routes offered by RICS are a step in the right direction. Many people discover surveying later in life, when returning to university isn’t practical. Broadening the pathways into the profession is long overdue.

What challenges have you overcome?

A major challenge was completing my APC while raising three young children. It required a lot of focus and resilience and I was only able to do that with the support of my husband. It taught me how much can be achieved with the right support and determination.

What are you most proud of in your career?

Achieving MRICS during that extremely busy period and becoming the first female partner at Jones Hargreaves. Neither one was straightforward, which makes them all the more meaningful.

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

Ask lots of questions and don’t be afraid to get stuck in. Take on different projects and network with others in the profession. Above all, stay curious – the industry moves quickly and being open to learning will serve you throughout your career. And don’t worry if your route into the industry isn’t linear; most people find their footing through experience, not perfection.