_Empowering women and building communities

Leanne Newberry, Partner and Head of Transformation, Asset Management Services at Knight Frank Australia, brings a unique combination of passion and expertise to her role. As a long-standing advocate for community work in developing affordable housing communities, she is dedicated to driving positive change beyond the confines of the business world. At Knight Frank, she collaborates closely with specific Asset Management Services teams to spearhead transformation across the organisation.

Ahfisah Rahman March 06, 2024

Empowering women and building communities: a journey in the non-profit sector

My passion for helping others and making a positive impact has led me to serve on the boards of two nonprofit organisations: Coast2Bay Housing Group and Purpose Real Estate. Both organisations focus on providing homes and building engaging communities for people in need, with specific initiatives geared towards women and children facing family and domestic violence, people with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness. As a board member of these groups, I have been fortunate enough to contribute to this mission and witness its impact on people's lives.

Balancing commercial real estate and community work

Working in commercial real estate has provided me with valuable professional experience, but I've always felt the need to contribute to something beyond financial outcomes. By engaging in community work and serving on the boards of nonprofit organisations such as Coast2Bay Housing Group and Purpose Real Estate, I've found a sense of fulfilment and purpose beyond my commercial pursuits.

My journey in the nonprofit sector over the last 15 years has enabled me to contribute to impactful organisations and initiatives focused on uplifting women and building stronger, more inclusive communities.

The importance of personal values in a professionally driven world

While financial achievements often measure success in the commercial real estate industry, personal values, and a commitment to making a positive impact are equally important. By finding ways to give back and support those in need, I've been able to maintain a strong connection to my values and find greater meaning in my work.

Advocating gender equality in the industry

As the Head of Transformation at Knight Frank's Asset Management Services in Australia, I've had the privilege of working in a supportive and inclusive environment. My role focuses on empowering our team members to bring their best selves to work and delivering excellent service by integrating our platforms, processes, and most importantly, people power.

Knight Frank stands out for its culture of respect, regardless of gender or diverse attributes. This environment has made it possible for me to focus on advocating for gender equality and supporting women within the organisation. In addition to advocating for women's success within Knight Frank, I strive to connect women with other professionals, both within and outside the organisation. This exposure to diverse perspectives helps women gain a broader understanding of the challenges they may face, fostering a sense of solidarity and support.

Fostering change and belonging

In my newly created role as Head of Transformation, I am excited and empowered to deliver change in collaboration with the Asset Management Services executive leadership group, Business Operations and Technology team in Australia. A significant aspect of my focus is ensuring that this transformation positively impacts our people, enabling and empowering them to excel in their roles and contribute to the organisation's success.
Knight Frank fosters a culture of respect for all individuals, regardless of gender or diverse attributes. This inclusive environment is evident in the support and collaboration among colleagues, making it a welcoming and encouraging workplace.

Some tips for women beginning their careers in the industry include focusing on developing strong interpersonal skills and embracing continuous learning. Stay open-minded, and curious, and seek opportunities to expand your skill set. Find yourself mentors throughout your career. They provide amazing insights and guidance beyond your career. Passion and dedication are crucial. Stay true to your values, and mission, and remember that your work be it professional or voluntary has a direct impact on the lives of others.

Empowering women in the industry: the role of champions and generational change

Both male and female champions play a crucial role in supporting and advocating for women in the industry. They can help create opportunities, provide guidance, and open doors for women who aspire to climb the corporate ladder and succeed in their roles.

A generational change is necessary to break away from the outdated mindset that limits women's potential in the industry. As older generations with traditional views retire, younger leaders must step up and foster a more inclusive culture that values gender diversity and equality.

Empowering women in the industry requires champions, generational change, and purposeful action. By supporting and advocating for women, fostering an inclusive culture, and providing growth opportunities, we can create lasting change and ensure that the industry benefits from the unique perspectives and talents of a diverse workforce.