Name: Anastasia Valuyskaya
Job title: Senior insight analyst at Local Space
What I do: I’m part of the service improvement and customer voice team. I provide key stakeholders with accurate performance reporting and develop innovative solutions to make life easier for both staff and residents.
Why I got into the property industry: Honestly, it was either a happy accident or a twist of fate. I’ve always found the property world fascinating, from luxury penthouses in vibrant cities to cosy cottages in the countryside. I knew I wanted to be part of this diverse industry, and then a role in social housing found me. It was the perfect fit: combining my passion for property with a genuine desire to make a difference to people’s lives.
How I did it: After completing a BA in international business and management, I moved to the UK to earn a master’s in data science for business and management at the University of Manchester. Soon after, I found a role that perfectly combined my passion for property, data, and operational improvement, and most importantly, I found my service improvement and customer voice dream team. It truly felt like it was meant to be.
My first proper job: My first professional role was at a fintech bank, working in the premium investments department as a customer acquisition specialist. It was a fast-paced environment that gave me invaluable early experience. Interestingly, it was there that I first became intrigued by the property industry, while working with a real estate-linked investment product. The role taught me how to communicate effectively, stay calm under pressure, and think creatively – laying a strong foundation for my career and sparking a lasting interest in property.
My first big break: I wouldn’t say I’ve had a ‘big break’ yet as I’m at the beginning of my career. Although I’m particularly proud of receiving the faculty of humanities dean’s award for achievement while at university.
My inspiration(s): Seeing a genuine smile on one of our residents’ faces is one of my biggest sources of inspiration, it’s a clear sign that our team’s work has made a real difference. I’m also inspired by emerging AI technologies, which I believe hold great potential to improve both resident experiences, the day-to-day lives of colleagues, and the housing sector in general.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: One of the greatest challenges was understanding the complexities of social housing – especially around regulatory returns. It required learning a whole new set of frameworks and responsibilities, but it’s been a valuable part of my growth.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: I can’t pinpoint just one – it’s a collection of moments. Seeing residents smile at in-person events we’ve organised, hearing positive feedback from staff about features I’ve designed, and knowing our work genuinely makes a difference. Those are the moments that make me proud of what I do.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: That people are involved in property or housing simply to make money. Of course, profit for many is a key business driver, but at Local Space we are more concerned with delivering real social value and transforming people’s lives. I think that’s the same for most of the affordable housing world. Also, many underestimate the complexity of managing a large housing portfolio. They assume it’s simple – “just let the property and watch the rent come in”. In reality, especially in social housing, it’s far more complex.
Letting is just the beginning. Behind the scenes are layers of work: maintenance, repairs, compliance, antisocial behaviour cases, complaints, and ensuring resident safety and satisfaction. Rent collection alone becomes a major operation when managing thousands of homes. As a senior insight analyst, I use data to monitor performance, understand resident needs, and support service improvements. It’s a demanding but deeply rewarding field.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: I’d love to see smarter, AI-driven solutions in the property and housing sectors, especially tools that can monitor the condition of homes, predict repairs before issues arise, and help us to monitor the wellbeing of vulnerable residents. It’s a crucial step toward improving comfort for residents and efficiency for providers.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: I believe diverse teams bring together a rich mix of knowledge, experience, and perspectives, which leads to truly unique solutions. A diverse team sees wider, thinks deeper, and adds real value to any organisation.
Why I’m so passionate about ESG: Local Space epitomises social value given that we help some of the most vulnerable in society through the provision of settled accommodation for those who have experienced homelessness. Also, I believe that the role of technology has a strong role to play in improving the sustainability and energy efficiency of our homes.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: I’d like to be driving the integration of smart tech solutions, helping to elevate the social housing industry through innovation and improved experiences for both residents and companies.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: I’d be honoured to host a dinner party of trailblazing women – the ‘firsts’ in their fields. My guest list would include Marie Curie, Ada Lovelace, and Madam C. J. Walker. Their courage, brilliance, and legacy continue to inspire me.
What I do in my downtime: I enjoy walking through Central London, taking in its remarkable architecture. I once heard that “London is the parent of architectural aesthetics”, and I couldn’t agree more. It’s my way of combining relaxation with inspiration.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: Probably a dance teacher, thanks to my love for music and movement, or perhaps an actress. Both roles speak to my creative side and passion for expression.
My advice for someone just starting out: This advice applies to anyone beginning their journey in any industry: Rule 1 – Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Rule 2 – Don’t be afraid to tell the truth. Starting out can be stressful, but honesty and curiosity go a long way. No one expects you to know everything from day one, and asking questions is often the fastest route to growth.
My motto/mantra: “I have enough…”. Whether it’s time, skills, patience, or professionalism, I remind myself that I already possess what’s needed to face the moment.
