Name: Victoria Birks
Job title: Head of operations, Socius
What I do: I oversee the daily operations of Socius, ensuring everything runs smoothly across the company. My role spans HR, championing corporate social value initiatives, driving technology adoption, and managing office space and wellbeing needs. I also support the Socius board, lead on our B-Corp commitments, and manage/maintain our website, social media content and corporate PR. On top of this, I also collaborate closely with the new business team to contribute to our growth and success.
Why I got into the property industry: I never knew what I wanted to do when I was growing up, but I started gaining experience in the property industry at a young age, working in an estate agency. What struck me was how varied it was – no two days were ever the same. I thought it was about property, but it is actually about people and I got to work with some incredible people right from the start. My first boss was an amazing mentor and teacher, and I learnt a lot from him in a short space of time and realised the industry offered many different paths and opportunities. Not everybody needs a real estate degree to find success in the industry and that’s something I love about it.
How I did it: Working for Lendlease in Sydney was a pivotal moment in my career. It gave me invaluable insight into the property industry and company functionality, and confirmed how much I enjoyed the fast-paced, dynamic nature of the work. While Sydney was an amazing place to live, I knew the opportunities in London would be greater (and closer to family), and making that move back was a key step in my career. After a short stint of temping with KPMG in London, I found my job as a PA at First Base (prior to the launch of Socius) and the rest is history…
My first proper job: Trainee negotiator at an estate agents in Budleigh Salterton, Devon. My boss was a perfectionist and taught me the ropes, capturing my interest in a way further education never did.
My first big break: Joining Barry Jessup to launch Socius – he put my career into warp speed.
My inspiration(s): I think inspiration comes from different places depending on the moment. Sometimes it’s people in my life who show resilience, creativity, or kindness, like my family and colleagues. Other times, it’s seeing how a bold idea or fresh perspective can completely transform a project or situation. Anyone who has the courage to push boundaries and make a meaningful difference, whether that’s in business, society, or day-to-day life, is inspirational.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: Perhaps it’s a cliche, but Covid-19 lockdowns were tough and I was six months pregnant when we first went into lockdown. When I returned to work after mat leave everything was different. It was late 2021 and I was a Socius employee. Life got very busy!
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: My recent promotion from business development executive to head of operations is definitely my proudest moment so far. I’d been balancing aspects of the role unofficially for a while, but without the headspace or time to truly make it my own. Stepping into this new position formally has given me the chance to fully embrace it, bring some fresh ideas, and focus on growing in a way that makes a real impact. It’s a great feeling to have that recognition and the opportunity to take things further.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: ‘It’s all about making money’. The reality is that whilst profitability is a key driver, many developers focus on creating sustainable, high-quality spaces that contribute positively to communities. ESG principles are increasingly prioritised in the industry. The industry actually does have feelings and a heart!
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: I think the property sector struggles to attract and retain diverse talent, unnecessarily. There’s a perception that the industry is old-fashioned and not dynamic, hampering its appeal to a new and diverse generation of talent, making it harder to introduce fresh ideas and a broader range of perspectives to the industry. If I could change one thing, it would be to modernise how we present career opportunities in real estate – highlight the exciting, innovative and impactful work we do, and how we invest in people. I think more can be done with schools and introducing the industry at an early stage. The more we invest in employee development, workplace culture and flexible working options, the more likely we will retain top talent for the long haul.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: In my HR role, I’ve seen first hand how a diverse team isn’t just the right thing to strive for – it’s the secret to success. Different perspectives lead to better ideas, stronger collaboration and ultimately, greater innovation. DE&I isn’t just a box to tick – it’s the foundation of building a thriving, dynamic and forward-thinking company.
Why I’m so passionate about ESG: Social impact isn’t just a buzzword in my role – it’s what gives my work purpose, with tangible results. ESG is about ensuring that developments don’t just meet today’s needs but create spaces that future generations will thank us for.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: I’d like to see myself as a board-level member at Socius, contributing to the strategic direction of the company and shaping its future growth. I’m passionate about making a meaningful impact, both within the business and in the developments we bring to life.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: I’d have to invite someone who would make me laugh. Some quick wit from Ricky Gervais, Tom Allen’s clever stories or perhaps Rylan for some drama! I’d find the company of a world leader, actor or heartthrob far too intense and stressful. Dinner parties should be fun rather than an interview!
What I do in my downtime: I love spending time with my daughter. I’m a fan of reformer pilates, barre and walking; it’s my way of staying balanced and energised. Weekends, you’ll find me with a glass of wine in hand. I’m an avid fiction reader and I just finished ‘A Little Life’ – beautiful but emotionally wrecking!
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: In another life I’d pack up and head to the south of France to become a winemaker. Firstly (and lastly?), who wouldn’t want an endless supply of wine at their fingertips? I’m probably completely wrong, but owning a vineyard seems like a nice way of life.
My advice for someone just starting out: Don’t feel like you need to have everything worked out from day one. Stay open-minded, curious and willing to explore different paths in the industry. Some of the best opportunities come from unexpected places and the people you meet along the way can have a profound impact on your journey. Be adaptable, ask questions and trust that your direction will evolve.
My motto/mantra: Work hard; team harder!
