Name: Ashleigh Hamilton
Job title: Head of BTR leasing, Ascend
What I do: I lead the build-to-rent leasing operations at Ascend, guiding prospective tenants through a seamless and enjoyable journey from lead to lease. In addition to managing day-to-day activities, I am actively involved in facilitating the mobilisation and launch of a substantial pipeline of properties over the next 18 months.
Why I got into the property industry: After six years of retail experience, swiftly advancing to an account manager role, I sought a fresh challenge. Encouraged by friends in the property industry who assured me “Try it, you’ll love it”, I ventured into a new career. Eleven years later, I find myself continually learning, relishing new challenges, and never once looking back.
How I did it: I began my journey in lettings as an in-house negotiator, handling enquiries and scheduling viewings for prospective tenants. After a short while, I was eager to experience life beyond the office and was fortunately promoted to a lettings negotiator. Meeting new people and helping them find their ideal home quickly became my favourite part of the job. Recognising my dedication, I was nominated for the senior negotiator award and honoured as the star performer.
My first proper job: Before I chose the property industry, my first ever job was an apprenticeship role in my local beauty salon. I went to college two days a week and worked four days in the salon. I loved learning on the job while earning. During this time, I achieved my NVQ Level 3 & 4 in beauty therapy and still use those skills to this day.
My first big break: I think my biggest break was being accepted for the head of leasing position at the largest urban BTR scheme outside of London. At the time, this was the greatest opportunity in Manchester, and during my time in that role I oversaw the launch activities, lease-up and stabilisation of Chapel Wharf, a scheme which was named by HomeViews as the number one BTR development in the UK in its first year of operation.
My inspiration(s): Rather than an individual per se, I’d say my biggest inspirations are those unsung heroes who overcome extreme challenges or difficult situations in their lives. A recent example would be Rob Burrows. As a family of rugby supporters, we have followed Rob throughout his career and watched in awe as he navigated his way through his diagnosis of MND. A true inspiration for anyone out there who is suffering from a life changing diagnosis.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: In my role as head of leasing at Chapel Wharf, with responsibility for the lease-up of 995 units, we were unfortunately affected by Covid at the launch of our first block. This came with challenges on how we were able to conduct viewings and move ins to our beautiful new homes, which really had an effect on the customer journey we had tried to create. Fortunately, we were able to overcome what was a slow start and went on to a successful lease up of the development.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: I’d say what gives me the best sense of achievement is watching the teams I have managed grow. Being a mentor to people and helping them to grow professionally is what I feel most proud of.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: That it’s just moving people into a property. It’s a lot more than that. It’s about the people we choose for our homes and creating communities. Offering that customer journey and making sure they are happy in their new home. There are so many things to consider from the high-level strategy of lease up to the welcome box at the move in. The maintenance and preparation of the property and the logistical operation of the business. The situations that are out of your control that can sometimes leave a customer dissatisfied to the 5* reviews from those customers who are happy in their new homes. No two days are the same.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: KEYS! So many keys!
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: I truly believe in equality within the workplace. Being a female in a strong position I hope can empower other like-minded individuals to follow their goals and pursue a career in property.
Why I’m so passionate about ESG: There are so many important aspects within ESG that we need to consider. Historically, the property industry hasn’t been the most environmentally friendly. However, we are now making strides in the right direction. At Ascend, we now provide Green Living guidance to our residents. This programme offers guidance on adopting a greener lifestyle and cutting down on monthly utility bills. To me, this represents genuine progress since I began working in the property industry.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: In my career I’ve taken each opportunity as they have come along. I am a strong believer in trusting your intuition and allowing the universe to guide you in the right direction. I am hopeful that in five years’ time I am still challenging myself and being the best I can be in the role I am in at that time.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: My best friend Jack who currently lives on the other side of the world in New Zealand. It’s not so easy for us these days to catch up, so a dinner and a natter with him would be awesome.
What I do in my downtime: I enjoy being outdoors with my partner and our cocker spaniel Cooper. We are fortunate enough to live in a rural area with beautiful scenic walks. I love to try new restaurants, I’m a real foodie, in particular sushi. I enjoy relaxing with a good book on holiday and watching the world go by. I’ve recently joined a dance class for beginners and indulged in some puppy yoga to enhance my overall wellbeing.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: Wedding planner. I am a true romantic. There is nothing I would love more than to help happy couples organise their special day.
My advice for someone just starting out: Don’t try to run before you can walk. Become really good at what you do before you take the next step in your career. Make time to think about those little things you can do that make a big difference.
My motto/mantra: Lead by example.
