On International Women’s Day, CoStar News caught up with a number of senior women in the United Kingdom real estate to discuss their experiences, journeys to the top, and the evolving landscape for women in the property industry.

Anthea Harries, the asset management director at King’s Cross, a 67-acre London estate, shared her insights into the challenges and opportunities for women in real estate. She reflected on the early days of her career, noting the scarcity of women in the profession. Despite the initial hurdles, Harries remained committed to pursuing a career in asset management, emphasizing her desire to be a generalist rather than a consultant.

Recalling her early roles at British Rail and Asda Properties, Harries highlighted the difficulties she faced in securing employment, underscoring the perseverance required in a male-dominated industry. However, she also acknowledged the invaluable support she received from both male and female mentors, emphasizing the industry’s positive shift towards nurturing talent and fostering gender diversity.

Throughout her career, Harries encountered influential leaders, including Dame Alison Nimmo, the CEO of the Crown Estate, who served as a source of inspiration and guidance. Her tenure at the Crown Estate, where she focused on the St James’s estate, offered a unique perspective on navigating traditional male-dominated spaces.

Following her impactful stint at the Crown Estate, Harries transitioned to Argent in 2018, assuming a pivotal role in asset managing the renowned 67-acre King’s Cross estate. She emphasized the challenges faced during the pandemic, underscoring the importance of maintaining close engagement with occupiers, particularly the retailers, amid the evolving landscape of the estate.

Harries’ journey serves as a testament to the evolving dynamics within the UK real estate sector, showcasing the strides made in promoting gender equality and empowering women in leadership roles.