Name: Lauren Gill
Title: Corporate development manager
What I do: The corporate development team focuses on growing Octopus Real Estate; fundraising, and exploring new sectors of the real estate industry for us to enter that align with our impact and sustainability mission.
Why I got into the property industry: I was part of the Octopus Group already and loved the culture, then an opportunity came up in real estate. So, to answer your question, by accident! But since then, its tangibility and ability to improve the lives of people has kept me passionate.
When I became interested in ESG: The built environment is one of the most problematic for causing damage to our planet. But, by the same merit, it is also able to make some of the most impactful changes to people’s lives. The balance of these two parts fascinates me, and how we as a business evolve our thinking to give consideration to both is a constant battle, but it’s a battle I am passionate about getting right.
My main career goals right now: Build the affordable housing proposition for Octopus Real Estate in a way that prioritises residents and delivers quality as well as affordable homes. Homes I would want to live in.
What I do in my downtime: I run quite a bit; nothing better than getting lost running and exploring new places. I also love to cook and spend time with loved ones, nothing that exciting!
My advice for someone just starting out: Be curious, ask all the questions, try things you might be rubbish at, and go into everything with a humility and passion to learn and grow.
My motto/mantra: “Why wouldn’t ya?” It’s led me to some long nights out..!
