Name: Kalli Stuart
Job title: ESG and social value consultant, Knight Frank
What I do: I specialise in ESG consultancy with a focus on social value. My role involves helping clients understand, measure, and enhance the social value of their projects and portfolios across the UK. We develop innovative and impactful social value strategies that strengthen relationships with key stakeholders and foster meaningful community engagement. My role also focuses on green building certifications like BREEAM In-Use assessments, where I help clients future-proof their assets by improving holistic sustainability and driving tangible benefits such as increased asset value and rental premiums.
Why I got into the property industry: Initially, I was drawn to the real estate sector because I’d heard it was a ‘people industry’, which really appealed to me. After graduating university and researching the sector, I discovered the growing importance of ESG, which sparked my interest even further. It wasn’t until I started my graduate position at Knight Frank that I truly understood the concept of social value specifically and its potential in the sector. I feel lucky to have found a career in a sector with such a significant opportunity to drive positive change – for both people and the planet.
How I did it: I wrote an initial email to the early careers department at Knight Frank with a cover letter and my CV, I had a follow up meeting and they streamlined me into the ESG consultancy team as an ESG graduate. It was a unique experience, as the other graduates at Knight Frank are working towards becoming chartered surveyors, whereas I decided not to do this but to pursue other qualifications and courses more relevant to sustainability.
My first proper job: My first office job after I finished university was at a recycling firm in Scotland. I worked there for nine months, where I gained first-hand operational experience. This experience provided me with invaluable insights into the significant sustainable and commercial opportunities associated with waste management.
My first big break: My first real ‘big break’ was presenting the findings of a social value project I had delivered to a client board meeting. Obviously, this felt like a big ‘moment’ for me professionally, but entirely befitting given the sustainability and social value are now board level concerns with direct reputational and financial implications.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: I did the Three Peaks Challenge last year to raise money for charity and it was definitely the biggest personal challenge to date – both physically and mentally.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t. By leading with equity, we can create more diverse pathways into industries that have traditionally been inaccessible to many. Without this intentional effort, we risk shutting the door on untapped talent and limiting the potential of our workforce. Investing in DE&I isn’t just the right thing to do for society – it’s also a powerful economic opportunity. People from disadvantaged backgrounds – whether from minority groups, lower socioeconomic status, or those living with disabilities – often face systemic barriers that impact their income levels and employment opportunities.
These disparities contribute to lower economic participation among these groups. By prioritising DE&I, we can break down these barriers and unlock the potential of underrepresented talent. This isn’t just good for individuals; it strengthens businesses and drives economic growth. A more inclusive workforce means more innovation, higher productivity, and broader market engagement, all of which fuel a stronger, more resilient economy.
Why I’m so passionate about ESG: I believe that businesses have a responsibility – not just to shareholders but to society and the environment. The health of our planet, communities, and economies are deeply interconnected, and ESG principles provide a framework for driving sustainable and ethical growth.
What is a common misconception people have about the property industry: I would say a common misconception about the property industry is that it’s solely focused on buying, selling, or managing buildings. Many people overlook the industry’s broader role in shaping communities, driving sustainability and delivering social value.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: Leading a socially driven team at Knight Frank, dedicated to helping clients navigate the entire asset lifecycle with a focus on sustainability, social value, and meaningful community engagement.
What I do in my downtime: Cooking, hiking, travelling and spending time with my friends and family.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: Definitely something to do with cooking.
My advice for someone just starting out: Show initiative and bring an enthusiasm and energy to the workplace that can’t easily be replaced.
My motto/mantra: Don’t wait for opportunity, create it.
