“Plenty of research now shows gender diversity is a potential source of competitive advantage,” said Jancey Malins, Illawarra Regional Manager of the Property Council.
“Companies that have men and women on their boards outperform companies with male only boards,” Ms Malins said.
To give women on the rise a boost, the Illawarra Chapter of the Property Council has launched the 100 Women in Property leadership program, through which emerging female leaders are identified and sponsored.
Program participant Tracy Preston, Manager, Commercial Management Division said she was really excited to be part of the program.
“I applaud the Property Council and my sponsor MMJ Real Estate for investing in me and promoting a diverse property industry,” Ms Preston said.
To complement the new program, the Property Council is hosting its first Women in Property event in the Illawarra, with Jane Jose, from the Sydney Community Foundation.
Ms Jose recently published Places Women Make which outlines how women have historically influenced male architects and designers to improve design outcomes for cities across Australia. The event will be moderated by Property Council’s new NSW Executive Director, Jane Fitzgerald.
“While most businesses now know why gender diversity is important, only the smart ones are walking the talk with their recruitment, flexible working and remuneration policies,” Ms Malins said,
“Given women still face a glass ceiling in the property industry events and programs such as these are critical to providing support for women within the industry and attracting new women to our ranks.”
The Property Council of Australia has also established the Property Male Champions of Change with key leaders from across the sector to help drive gender equality.
Media contact: Jancey Malins | M 0475 770 799 | E [email protected]