Name: Glen Chandler
Job title: Associate – property management, Workman
What I do: I manage commercial property on behalf of institutional clients, making sure buildings run smoothly day-to-day and that landlords and occupiers both get the best experience. My role covers everything from rent collection, service charge budgeting and providing support with rent reviews and lease renewals to health and safety, client reporting and mobilising new assets.
Why I got into the property industry: I wanted a career that was varied and people-focused, where I wouldn’t be stuck behind a desk doing the same thing every day. Property management appealed because it combines problem solving, client service and working with buildings that form part of the fabric of our towns and cities.
How I did it: I joined Workman as an apprentice after my A Levels, which gave me hands-on experience from day one while studying part-time. It was the best grounding I could have had – learning on the job, sitting in client meetings early and getting exposure to real property challenges.
My first proper job: I worked as a health adviser for the NHS 111 service during my A Levels. I learned a lot about communication skills and the ability to work under pressure and remain calm.
My first big break: Shortly after joining Workman my line manager left, and with the support of my partner In charge, I was entrusted with a large part of their portfolio. It was a steep learning curve, but having that trust early on gave me the confidence to step up and take ownership of assets and client relationships sooner than expected.
My inspiration(s): I’ve been lucky to work with some great partners and leaders at Workman who have shown me that good management is about relationships, adding value and giving people the connections and opportunities to grow. Their example has been a big motivator.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: Mobilising large, complex assets for clients where there’s a lot at stake. Getting systems, staff and contractors aligned in a short timeframe is tough – but also one of the most rewarding parts of the job.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: Qualifying as MRICS through the apprenticeship route. It meant five years of balancing work, study and exams and coming out the other side with chartership was a huge milestone. It proved the “non-traditional” route works just as well – sometimes better.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: That it’s all about shiny buildings and big deals. The reality is that property is as much about people, service and problem-solving as it is about bricks and mortar.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: That it can still feel a bit old-fashioned. I’d like to see more innovation in how we use technology to improve occupier experience and make management more efficient.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: Coming through the apprenticeship route, I’ve seen first-hand the value of opening doors to people who might not have considered property. A more diverse industry brings fresh thinking – and ultimately makes us better at what we do.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: Still at Workman, taking on bigger client mandates and leading a team. I’d also like to play a part in shaping the direction of the firm.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: David Attenborough – who wouldn’t want to hear his stories first-hand?
What I do in my downtime: Cycling, hiking and sailing when I can, spending time in nature or by the coast. I’ve also been learning Norwegian with half an eye on living abroad one day.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: Probably something in environmental management or marine conservation. I considered a degree in oceanography before pursuing a career in the built environment.
My advice for someone just starting out: Don’t worry about knowing everything straight away. Property management is a job you learn by doing. Ask questions, get stuck in and take every site visit as a chance to understand how buildings really work. It’s about your attitude and initiative, not your knowledge on day one.
My motto/mantra: Kindness costs nothing, but it can make all the difference.
