Vicki Skinner, CFO of Urbanest, shares how returning to her executive role just four months after giving birth made her a more effective leader. She discusses Urbanest's growth from 5 assets to nearly 6,500 beds, the resilience of London's student accommodation market, and practical strategies for balancing motherhood with demanding leadership roles in property.
"Motherhood has catalysed enormous personal and professional development. There's a new sense of purpose driving everything I do - achieving more with less."
Working Parents: Focus on output over hours, build strong support networks, communicate clearly with employers
Employers: Implement flexible working, prioritise results, invest in professional development programmes
Property Professionals: Stay open to unexpected opportunities, focus on long-term career thinking
Vicki Skinner - CFO, Urbanest
Georgia Zambakides - Executive Director, deverellsmith