Name: Aisha Vincent
Job title: Assistant site manager, Berkeley Group
What I do: I am an assistant site manager working on the final phase of the St George Fulham Reach Development. I am responsible for overseeing and coordinating works on site, upholding safety standards, quality control and coordinating works and design with contractors.
Why I got into the property industry: I began at St George as the site administrator for the Chelsea Creek development, I still wasn’t sure what I wanted to do for a career. In this role I worked closely with all the production team – build, technical and commercial. I started to become interested in the site management role. There were two women, Natsai Chimbo and Fiona Pasifull, that were both site managers on this job and seeing them was the first time I thought of this career for myself. They took me on site, showed me their day-to-day tasks and it all took off from there.
How I did it: I approached my manager, Stuart Sweeney, and asked him if I could start an apprenticeship and he said “yes”! He raised it with the relevant people and I began my application. I’d also spoken with another colleague, Abdi Shireh, who was in the process of completing his apprenticeship. He made sure I knew exactly what to expect before committing.
My first proper job: My first job was when I was 17. I was helping at a Saturday performing arts school in their early years’ classes. Very different to what I do now, but I loved it.
My first big break: I think it’s been over the last year, as my responsibilities have significantly increased and it has felt like a big step forward. I am overseeing the construction of four luxury townhouses on my current project. It’s a lot of information to wrap my head around, but it’s enjoyable and such a great opportunity to improve my knowledge and skills as a manager.
My inspiration(s): Michelle Obama – I admire the way she holds herself professionally and how she can be a leader whilst also maintaining respect and empathy for other people. Construction can be very fast paced and high pressured and I want to ensure I stay resilient and keep my integrity – I think she is a great example of this.
The biggest challenge I have encountered to date: I’ve struggled with imposter syndrome and getting in my own head. I’ve had to get myself out of that mindset and trust in my knowledge and abilities. I’m in a development programme with the Circle Partnership and they’ve hosted multiple events that have provided me with the tools to do this. The programme is specifically for women in the industry – it’s been great being in a space with people I can relate to.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: Completing my apprenticeship. I’ve never really enjoyed education; I always found exams stressful and overwhelming. However, this wasn’t my experience with my apprenticeship. I finally found something that I was passionate about, it didn’t feel like a struggle or a chore. I was proud of my results and even though I am 28 years old, I made sure my mum framed the certificate!
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: Many people don’t know the ins and outs of the industry and are not aware of the variety of roles available and the skills that they all require. Specifically, from a women’s perspective, we are not encouraged enough to join the industry or even consider it. There are so many roles we can do and you can have a really successful career.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: The stigma of apprenticeships being a ‘last resort’ needs to change. I think there is a lot of classism tied up in that perception. Apprenticeships are just as valuable as any other qualification. They give real, hands-on experience and kickstart careers. I also want to see the industry continue to move forward with gender inclusivity and actively make changes to get rid of the old school misogynistic behaviours.
Why I am so passionate about DE&I: I am passionate about it because it’s not just a workplace topic, it’s a human issue. It’s many people’s lived experiences, including my own as a mixed-race woman. No matter your gender, race, ability, or culture, you deserve to be respected, treated fairly and given equal opportunities. Inclusivity within a workplace, and the people you surround yourself with, is a superpower that we should all strive for. Different perspectives lead to better solutions.
Why I am so passionate about ESG: Construction has a massive environmental and social footprint, meaning it can also make the most change. The more we do now, the better we are leaving things for future generations and the future of the industry.
Where I would like to be in five years’ time career-wise: I’d like to be working at a senior management level where I am overseeing larger aspects of a build and more involved in the overall delivery. I also want to be in a position where I can have a direct influence on bringing more young women into the industry. It’s important to me that I use my experiences to support others and provide advice to all young people coming through, especially those who might be facing the same challenges I have experienced. Representation makes a huge difference and I want to be part of creating that change within construction.
Who I would invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: Michelle Obama for the reasons stated above. She inspires me, not just in a work-related capacity, but also in my personal life. Whitney Houston because she is iconic, extremely talented and she was so unapologetically herself. I would also invite Jacinda Ardern as she is another example of strong leadership with compassion.
What I do in my downtime: I’m normally in the gym, watching musicals or out for drinks because balance is key!
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: Maybe something behind the scenes in the music industry as I am obsessed with everything music or musical related.
My advice for someone just starting out: Be confident, know your strengths and use them – and if you have a question, ask it.
My motto/mantra: “Being your authentic self is the most powerful thing you can do” – Michelle Obama.
