International Women’s Day - Celebrating The LPF Rising Stars

The Luxury Property Forum has always been committed to making the industry better for all. Fostering the next generation of female leaders, highlighting the challenges they face and celebrating their achievements is essential to ensuring that every woman entering the industry is equipped with the resources, support and opportunities needed to thrive. As part of our ongoing efforts to make positive change, The LPF recently launched The Rising Star campaign.

Senior members of the community were invited to nominate exceptional women within their companies who will be the next generation of female leaders. This initiative isn't just about recognition; it's about sending the elevator down and ensuring that women are supported and empowered throughout their careers.

Each nomination highlights the outstanding achievements of the Rising Star but also provides insight into the values and mindset of the nominators who are committed to nurturing the next generation and changing the industry for the better.

In addition to sharing their reasons for nomination, senior members were asked “If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your younger self?” and our Rising Stars were asked “what key lesson would you like to share with young women”.

NOMINATOR EMMA DREIKE - EMPOWERING rising star LOTTIE BODILLY AT EBURY COMMS

Emma Dreike, Co-Founder of Ebury Comms, is a proud supporter of Lottie Bodilly, Senior Account Manager and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“A longstanding member of the Ebury team, Lottie Bodilly has gone from strength to strength in recent months, particularly since returning from maternity leave in early 2023. That she is a brilliantly competent PR is a given, but what has really become apparent is her innate sense of business and her confidence to upsell and identify new business opportunities across the board. Every so often, a businesswoman of the future crosses our paths and makes us sit up and feel excited. This is who we have met in Lottie and have no doubt that she will have a stellar career ahead of her.”

Emma's Advice to Her Younger Self

Always consider the bigger picture and don't obsess about all the granular detail.

Lottie’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Always be willing and open to learn, you can never know enough

NOMINATOR LUKE MORGAN - champtioning rising star HANNAH TYERS AT MORGAN RAE

Luke Morgan, Managing Director is a massive champion of Hannah Tyers at Morgan Rae and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Hannah is the 13th youngest RICS member in the world, and has gone through adversity with personal tragedy and also raised significant money for charity.”

Luke's Advice to His Younger Self:

Take risks and follow your dreams

Hannah’s lesson to the next generation

My advice to young women is to use those that doubt you as motivation, you are capable of whatever you set your mind to.

Nominator Bernd Radaschitz - Nurturing Rising Star Clara Kogler at LANSERRING

Bernd Radaschitz, CEO of LANSERRING, has been a guiding force behind Clara Kogler, Bid Manager & Estimator at LANSERRING and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Clara's dedication to the LANSERRING brand shines through in everything she does, from her creative problem-solving skills to her talent for designing efficient in-house systems. Despite her young age, she has readily taken on significant responsibility, demonstrating remarkable maturity. Beyond her impressive work ethic, Clara seamlessly integrated into the team after her move from Austria and has become an invaluable asset, especially when meeting with clients. In a complex area of the business, her unwavering focus and meticulous attention to detail are critical to LANSERRING's commercial success. Clara's combination of talent, commitment, and resilience makes her a truly remarkable woman deserving of this recognition.”

Bernd's Advice to His Younger Self

Embrace new challenges fearlessly and venture beyond your comfort zone. Be persistent and envision where you aspire to be in the future

Clara’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Know your value. Be respectful and do not let people disrespect you, whether that be privately or in the workplace. It is important to stand up for yourself and make people not only recognize but acknowledge your worth.

Nominator TIM KNIGHT - Championing rising star Rebecca Thompson's Leadership at Knight Protection

Tim Knight, Managing Director at Knight Protection, is a champion behind Rebecca Thompson as the Chief of Staff and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Despite being just 31, Rebecca is already a pivotal member of our Senior Leadership Team and in January this year she was promoted to Chief of Staff at Knight Protection. Since joining seven years, Rebecca has helped transform us as a company. Rebecca is observational, quietly confident and capable. Rebecca has helped shape our client offering using her understanding our UHWNI/HNWI audience and how security fits within the luxury property market and our client’s lives. Rebecca’s role has grown and there is not an area in our business that she doesn’t impact. Rebecca also drives our sustainability initiatives. Sustainability is increasingly important to our clients and partners in interior design, architecture and property development and thanks to Rebecca we are now on track to be net zero by 2030. Security is a male dominated industry, so we value Rebecca’s perspective even more and championing women in this industry is important to us as a company.

Rebecca is naturally understated, delivery-focused and doesn’t seek the limelight, and this would be an excellent opportunity to recognise her significant progress and contribution more formally.”

Tims's Advice to His Younger Self

Be brave with opportunities in front of you. If an opportunity makes you feel out of your comfort zone and you question whether you can do it, that is usually the right level of stretch. From these experiences you will learn the most and feel the greatest personal reward.

Becca’s Lesson to the Next Generation

It's fine not knowing everything. Admit when you're unsure, ask questions, and learn from the experience.

Nominator Siobhan Kelly - Supporting rising star Stella Noble's Excellence at David Collins Studio

Siobhan Kelly, Associate Director at David Collins Studio, has been a pillar of support for Stella Noble, Senior Designer and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Stella has been with David Collins Studio for over 3 years now and with over a decade of experience in the interior design industry, spanning from military barracks in the United States to high-end retail projects in London, her career path reflects a consistent pursuit of excellence. During her time at David Collins Studio she has been involved in various projects including the Londoner Hotel in Macau, Fontainebleau, Las Vegas and a Private Home in Argentina.

Stella's outstanding talent quickly became evident to me when we worked together on an extraordinary private home. Characterized by its unparalleled sophistication, Stella was central to this complex project, which required the creation of over a hundred custom furniture pieces alongside a refined and unique interior architecture, and a collection of special art pieces.

Stella approaches every aspect of her work positively and with meticulous attention to detail; from material selection to coordinating with the wider project team and artisans. Her commitment to pushing the boundaries of luxury design while maintaining a commercial mindset is an asset to every project she works on, and Stella is an excellent mentor to other members of the team.

Already highly influential amongst her peers within the field of Interior Design, I’m delighted to nominate Stella as a Rising Star. Her journey underscores the profound influence of design, and I am certain she will continue to make significant contributions to our industry in the years ahead.”

Siobhan's Advice to Her Younger Self

Pay attention to the past and seek inspiration from historic designers for timeless designs.

Stella’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Keep going through the tough bits. It's completely normal to lose your confidence, and regain it again.

Nominator Emma Maile - Recognising rising star Megan Sprake's Potential at Grangewood

Director Emma Maile is a supporter of Megan Sprake, a Commercial Assistant at Grangewood and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Megan is a rising star! In a male dominated industry and company, Megan is standing out. She is working hard at work all whilst studying to gain her qualifications. She is opening minded and brings fresh ideas to our project teams and it willing to undertake tasks outside her roll for the greater good. She will go far!

Emma's Advice to Her Younger Self

Every day there is an opportunity to learn. If you feel you are not learning, you are not looking hard enough. There is always more you can do to grow - create your own opportunities and future. No one else is responsible to do that for you.

Megan’s Lesson to the Next Generation:

They should believe in themselves and not be put off by working in a "male dominated industry". There is a place for everyone, as long as you believe in yourself and your abilities. It is a rewarding sector to work in and you get to experience different lifestyles.

Nominator Alex Elliott - Advocating for rising star Poppy Peace's Leadership at House of Red

Commercial Director Alex Elliott is a true supporter and advocate of Poppy Peace, Founder and Creative Director at House of Red and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Poppy is the founder of House of Red who has embarked on the journey of launching her own business last year. Hard working, and with a strong team spirit, she has worked from an Office Administrator through to Managing Director within her previous company, championing her employees and always being hands on creating a great culture. She has the drive and determination to constantly lift others. Taking a risk leaving her last company of 14 years and starting again, I know she will make the company a success, whilst building great and meaningful new relationships within the industry. She is proof that being nice most definitely doesn't mean you are weak, with all she has achieved so far!”

Alex's Advice to His Younger Self

Study personal finance from a younger age to lay a strong foundation for the future.

Poppy’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Be bold! Trust your intuition and take risks to discover your capabilities and embrace opportunities you might otherwise miss.

Nominator Richard Parton - championing rising star Imogen Buxton at LXA

Richard Parton, Managing Director at LXA, is a massive champion of Imogen Buxton, Head of New Business and Marketing and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Over the past 3 years she has really helped to elevate the LXA brand and standing within the Luxury Property Sector and is now a well recognised figure in the industry.”

Richard’s' Advice to His Younger Self

Don't be afraid to make mistakes.

Imogen’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Back yourself, but ensure you have the knowledge to do so. And be kind, to yourself and to others, it is the most important thing.

Nominator Ed O'Donnell - empowering rising star Elizabeth Kelly at Angel O'Donnell

Ed O'Donnell, Co-Founder and Creative Director at Angel O'Donnell is a great supporter of Elizabeth Kelly, Senior Project & Procurement Manager, and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Elizabeth is the epitome of a 'can do' attitude. Cool under pressure, fantastic with clients, finding solutions to challenging problems but all done with a smile on her face. Her work-ethic is second to none, she's a joy to have in the team and a remarkable young woman, mature beyond her years, who is a leader of tomorrow.”

Ed's Advice to His Younger Self

Be fastidious with your organisational admin! Early practice becomes a lifetime habit.

Elizabeth’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Trust your gut and give things a go!

Nominator Richard Angel - supporting rising star Niamh O'Sullivan at Angel O'Donnell

Richard Angel, Co-founder and CEO recognises and champions Stylist Niamh O'Sullivan at Angel O'Donnell and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Niamh started at Angel O'Donnell as an intern in August 2023, since then she has become an invaluable full time member of staff who fills a multi-faceted role for the business. Nothing is too much trouble for her, she is able to pivot to tasks as they arise, and use her remarkable and varied skillset to benefit clients and colleagues alike. More than anything, she has a positive, can-do attitude. She's a joy to have in our company and her smile and energy light up a room when she is in it. We're incredibly lucky to have her.”

Richard's Advice to His Younger Self

Be kind, be professional and be mindful of how you treat people, it's a small world and even smaller industry.

Niamh’s lesson to the next generation

Always find something you’re passionate about in what your doing.

Nominator Gilly Nicolson - EMPOWERing rising star Sally Smith at gilly nicolson

Gilly Nicolson, Managing Director is a proud supporter of Sally Smith, Creative Director at Gilly Nicolson and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Sally has a wealth of experience in textiles and marketing, which she applies with energy and enthusiasm day after day. She is endlessly positive and optimistic, focused and driven, and has had such a fantastic impact on our team and business.”

Gilly's Advice to Her Younger Self

Chill out - don't sweat the small stuff, just stay focused and continually look to improve

Sally’s lesson to the next generation

Believe in yourself - trust your abilities and instincts and have confidence in your potential.

Nominator Jennifer Beningfield - ADVOCATing FOR rising star Carina Kramer AT OPEN STUDIO ARCHITECTS

Jennifer Beningfield, Director of Openstudio Architects is a champion of Carina Kramer, Partner in Open Studio Architects and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“I can she that she has dedication to excellence, design integrity, knowledge of materials and commitment to creating extraordinary buildings”

Jennifer's Advice to Her Younger Self

The more you do the more opportunities will arise, so always chose to act and keep moving

Carina’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Have a vision of where you want to be and do not be afraid of hard work, the ups and the downs and the determination required in your journey to getting there.

Nominator Grace Willcocks - empowering rising star Rowena Judd at Burbeck

Grace Willcocks, Head of Commercial at Burbeck, supports and empowers Rowena Judd, Head of Staging, and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Rowena has a professionalism and work ethic that is unmatched, if we could clone her we would. Having been with us since starting as a Junior Stylist, Rowena is the Head of the Staging team of designers. She manages a team of 6 designers and overseas the installations for the majority of our projects. Highly enthusiastic, not only is she an excellent people manager, always going above and beyond fo

Grace's Advice to Her Younger Self

The more varied the experience you can collect along your professional journey the better. Having a diverse knowledge of different commercial markets and client behaviours can only ever be beneficial to your career.

Rowena’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Believe in yourself, embrace challenges, and step out of your comfort zone.

Nominator Joshua Meadowcroft - recognising rising star Toni Hughes at howden insurance

Joshua Meadowcroft, Business Development Manager at Howden Insurance, recognises the true potential of Toni Hughes , New Business Handler, and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Toni has an incredible attitude when it comes to bringing new clients into the Howden world, her tenacity is always on show and always put's the clients first. Being a mother of a 2 year old has not dampened this and fits so much into her working week. On top of this, she takes great pride in looking after and brining along any new joiners to our new business team. They learn so much from her and always offers her time. A great asset to any team.”

Joshua's Advice to His Younger Self

It takes hard work and being taking yourself our of your comfort zone but you will find the right path

Toni’s Lesson to the Next Generation

You can create a fulfilling life on your own terms. Finding a supportive network of women who inspire and guide you is essential.

Nominator Rachel Ewing - empowering rising star Ella Cooper at Flint Insurance

Rachel Ewing Associate Director champions and nurtures Ella Cooper, Account Handler at Flint Insurance and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“It is with great pleasure that I nominate Ella for recognition of her remarkable growth and development over the past four years. Having had the privilege of working closely with her, I have witnessed firsthand her journey of self-improvement and skill enhancement. In particular, Ella's remarkable surge in confidence, particularly evident in the past year, is truly commendable. Challenges that once unsettled her are now met head-on, with a newfound assertiveness and determination. Her transformation at Flint is a testament to her dedication and resilience, and I am immensely proud of the woman she has become.”

Rachel's Advice to Her Younger Self:

Don't hide your shine. You do not have to conform to peoples idea of normal. Always show your personality.

Ella’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Never compare yourself to others and always stand up for yourself.

Nominator Kevin Wilton - nurturing rising star Sarah Bradsell at SMC UK

Kevin Wilton, Operations Director at SMC, champions and nurtures Sarah Bradsell, Aftercare Manager at SMC and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Sarah leads our Aftercare Team with remarkable finesse, overseeing a dynamic team of 15 individuals. Her journey at SMC began humbly at the reception desk in 2015, but her ascent through the ranks has been nothing short of inspirational. Despite initially lacking familiarity with the industry and the intricacies of home automation, Sarah has swiftly acquired the expertise necessary to effectively manage her team.

Beyond her proficiency in technology, Sarah's resilience and determination shine brightly. As a formidable female leader in a predominantly male-dominated company and industry, she embodies the essence of strength, authenticity, and ambition. Her presence serves as a testament to her unwavering character and unwavering drive.”

Kevin's Advice to His Younger Self

Always know your worth.

Sarah’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Set career goals and tick them off when they’re done, then make new ones!

Nominator Ricky West - advocating for rising star Freddie Rowland at Regency Grove

Ricky West, Director at Regency Grove knows the potential of Freddie Rowland, Project Manager and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Freddie is exceptional at what she does! Freddie excels in her role in a very personable and professional manner and is highly commended by all colleagues and partners we work with.”

Freddie’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Take every opportunity, whether it is from taking the minutes, developing a programme, assembling a professional team, attending networking events, even if you have never done it before, there will always be a first time.

Sharon Lillywhite - championing rising star Tory Ashby at Oliver Burns Studio

Sharon Lillywhite, Founding Partner and Creative Director at Oliver Burns Studio, champions Tory Ashby, Marketing and Operations and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“In the last year since Tory has joined Oliver Burns Studio she has shown that she has become indispensable to the business. Her work ethic is second to none and she manages to balance this challenging role with motherhood and always with a smile on her face.”

Tory’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Attitude is everything, be the person who gets things done and you will go far.

NOMINATOR GOLI-MICHELLE BANAN - ADVOCATing FOR rising star HOLLY WORTHINGTON

Goli-Michelle Banan, Director and Head of Residential Real Estate at Lawrence Stephens, is a strong supporter of Holly Worthington, Business Development Manager at The London Management Company and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Holly is hard working, sincere and genuine. Since meeting her, I have not hesitated to recommend her services to my clients. She wins people over with her friendly and professional approach. I am proud to call her one of my trusted advisors and see her as a powerful young woman in the industry.”

Goli-Michelle's Advice to Her Younger Self

Take a more relaxed approach in everything you do

Holly’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Believe in yourself, don't let fear hold you back. Embrace challenges for growth, surround yourself with supportive people, and trust your abilities.

NOMINATOR SARAH CHIAPPI - nurturing rising star CHELSEA HINTON'S SUCCESS AT ZUMA AI

Sarah Chiappi, Sales Director at Zuma AI, has recognises the potential of Chelsea Hinton's success as the Marketing Director and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“She is a a marketing genius and understands the quality high end audio brands demand. She is dedicated, focussed and driven, delivering more for her clients than you’d think possible in a day! She’s calm, thorough and dedicated to making all her clients a success and a pleasure to work with.”

Sarah's Advice to Her Younger Self

Surround yourself with calm, professional women, and prioritize attention to detail.

Chelsea’s Lesson to the Next Generation

My advice to the next generation of women in any industry is to build your tribe and support network. For me, it’s not only opened up so many career opportunities, but it's also meant that I’m always learning and getting inspiration from my peers. I’d also say that it’s so important to be authentic to who you are, challenge yourself and push boundaries to achieve your goals. When it feels scary to jump, that’s exactly when you need to jump!

NOMINATOR MANDI CLEYNDERT- EMPOWERING rising star EMILY STRUTT AT CLEYNDERT

Director Mandi Cleyndert champions and nurtures Emily Strutt, Design Engineer at Bill Cleyndert & Co and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Emily continues to impress us in her personal and professional growth, showing courage and determination. She embraces opportunities to operate outside her comfort zone and is curious and positive about the work and team. She is a pleasure to work with.”

Mandi's Advice to Her Younger Self

Run your own race.

Emily’s Lesson to the Next Generation

My advice to the next generation of women in the industry is to not be afraid to be heard or take up space, your voice and thoughts are as important as the next persons. Believe in your visions and ideas, put them forward. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions! It's exciting to see more women enter the luxury bespoke furniture industry, it's going to be a great future!

Lisa Warren - empowering rising star Harriet Dalton at Jackson Coles

Lisa Warren, Partner at Jackson Coles, supports and empowers Harriet Dalton and has nominated her as a Rising Star.

“Harriet is so dedicated and driven; her tailored advice means she's always devising practical solutions to deliver best quality and value.”

Lisa's Advice to Her Younger Self

Focus on building your network (not just your technical skills) and soak up as much knowledge as you can from everyone you meet.

Harriet’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Be open, make the most of every opportunity. Success isn’t always a straight line, but enthusiasm combined with hard work will see you through.

NOMINATOR JOANNA HELIN - EMPOWERING RISING STAR KELLY ASHFORTH AT SMARTCOMM

Joanna Helin, from Smartcomm, has been instrumental in empowering Kelly Ashforth as Smartcomm’s Launch Project Manager.

“Kelly has been an asset from the get-go. She works tirelessly to ensure the smooth introduction and integration when we launch new projects, asking the right questions to ensure client expectations are met or exceeded. Along with helping us refine the delivery process, Kelly has been instrumental in ensuring a great experience for our clients, her open communication style making sure everyone is aware what point the project is at during the whole process. Well done Kelly.”

Joanna's Advice to Her Younger Self

Advice I would give to my younger self is to ask more questions, to get a deeper understanding beyond the obvious. I was also encourage my younger self to travel more and invest in Apple shares.

Kelly’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Be open to exploring diverse industry roles despite its male-dominated reputation. Initially in AV, I encountered challenges transitioning into technical roles, facing negativity around pursuing CEDIA exams. Despite hurdles, I became the second woman in Europe to pass. Encouragingly, more women now thrive in the industry, presenting ample opportunities for the younger generation.

Richard Bursby - advocates for Lacy Gratton at Taylor Wessing

Richard Bursby, Partner at Taylor Wessing supports Lacy Gratton, Senior Associate as an LPF Rising Star

“Lacy is a wonderful, smiling, force of nature, fully committed to doing her best for her clients, super collaborative and a total team player, wonderful mentor and role model, smart and funny. She has overcome much adversity in her life yet is full of warmth of spirit.”

Richard's Advice to His Younger Self

It's just a job so relax and enjoy the journey

Lacy’s Lesson to the Next Generation

My advice to the next generation of women is to see obstacles as opportunities for growth. Embrace challenges with humility and determination, recognising that each hurdle you overcome strengthens your skills and resilience. Build a strong network of support, seek mentors

Esra Kumbasar - ADVOCATES FOR Lucy Clifford AT ACCOUTER GROUP

Design Director Esra Kumbasar supports Lucy Clifford, Associate Director Project Manager at Accouter group as an LPF Rising Star.

“Lucy has been with us for just over a year now and has embraced every part of her new role. She has gone above and beyond to understand the business and all the new terminology that goes with. She has spent her own time educating herself and passing on her new found knowledge to the team. She has created a role that we knew we needed but has embraced it and made it her own. We look forward to her mentoring and building her own team very soon.”

Esra's Advice to Her Younger Self

Do Not Stress!

Lucy’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Learn to believe in yourself. Your voice is so important so don't be afraid to use it and share your values and opinions.

Chris Pask empowers Nicole Lindley at Charlton Brown Architects

Managing Partner Christopher Pask empowers Nicole Lindley, Associate at Charlton Brown Architects as an LPF Rising Star.

“Nicole constantly pushes the boundaries of her role and indeed our practices understanding of what our architecture should be. She goes about it in a way that appears effortless and fun, which belies how difficult that is to do.”

Chris' Advice to His Younger Self

Look around, see how else you can add to a project besides the things you already know how to do.

Nicole’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Surround yourself with people who align with your message and support them along the way, together we can be a force for positive change.

Joanna Amis Supports Leanne Smith at ADAIR

Joanna Amis, Head of Marketing supports Leanne Smith, Associate Directore at Adair as an LPF Rising Star.

“Leanne is a high achieving resilient ambitious woman.”

Joanna's Advice to Her Younger Self

My advice to my younger self is to study harder.

Leanne’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Believe in yourself, don't allow people to dictate your path or your career. If you want to achieve something work hard, stay focused and believe in you.

Tania Thomas empowers JacintA Da Rocha Goulter at Maison Communications

Co-Founder Tania Thomas empowers Jacinta Da Rocha Goulter, Consultant at Maison Communications as an LPF Rising Star.

“Jacinta Goulter is a true shining light of positivity and creativity complementing the already strong wider property and lifestyle team at Maison Communications. Always glass half full, she brings an added layer of experience and additional contacts to the PR campaigns for property clients from her hospitality and design background. One area of strength is the delivery of brand partnerships and collaboration, which enhances and further complements the luxury property brand positioning of our clients. The Maison Comms team has always been wedded to wellbeing and working with brands who support the wellness trend, which Jacinta supports. In her own time she also is a spin instructor and this energy filters into daily life at Maison Comms.”

Tania's Advice to Her Younger Self

Always know your worth and be kinder to your self.

Jacinta’s Lesson to the Next Generation

Collaboration is key: create connections wherever you can, take every coffee meeting, as you never know where it might lead, now or in the future.

GET IN TOUCH

For more information on our LPF members who participated in this year’s Rising Stars Campaign, please visit their websites by clicking the links below: