In celebration of International Women’s Day 2024 and its theme of 'Inspiring Inclusion,' we shine a spotlight on the remarkable women of Winkworth who are shaping the property industry and championing diversity across our network.
At Winkworth, we are dedicated to creating an environment of equality and opportunity, actively encouraging the advancement of women within our network. Through insightful conversations with our accomplished female team members, we explore their journeys, experiences and insights on how the industry can continue to promote inclusivity.
Shilpa Bathija: Never stop learning
Shilpa Bathija is a Business Development Director and Sales Consultant at Winkworth Kingsbury. Her father’s business in property investment sparked her love for the industry at a young age. Now, with over 15 years' experience in sales, Shilpa's contributions to her team are invaluable.
To ensure she is at the top of her game, Shilpa champions continual learning and professional development. “Education is key. To stay ahead of the competition, it’s important to stay educated and up to date with the industry. I always prioritise being knowledgeable, and now wherever I go, I command the room.”
Shilpa's passion for exceptional customer service has brought acclaim to her office. Winkworth Kingsbury won the 'Best Letting Agents (TENANTS) Office in the UK' award at the ‘Estate Agents of the Year Awards’ in 2023. She believes that being a woman has only supported this success. She said, “Women can help and guide people, so I think being a woman gives me an additional advantage. Part of being an estate agent is delivering great customer service, and this is where I can naturally make an impact in people’s lives.”
Natasha Craig: Support is empowering
Natasha Craig is a Director at Winkworth St John’s Wood, Maida Vale and West Hampstead. Starting as Head of Administration in 2011, she soon became integral to the team and is now a Director. Her skills in compliance management, team motivation and anti-money laundering are essential to her offices. Natasha advocates for creating a culture of encouragement and opportunity within the workplace.
Natasha joined the industry following her mum's encouragement, and now inspires her team. She commented, “We have three female administrators on our team, and I always motivate and support them. If you believe in someone, they will believe in themselves.”
Natasha’s ethos has no doubt contributed to launching a third franchise alongside co-Director Neil Sloam. She said, “Opening a third office in West Hampstead is the biggest achievement of my career. I’ve worked hard to get to where I am but I’m also grateful for the support of my team.”
Faith Cook: Hard work speaks volumes
Faith Cook is a Director at Winkworth Fulham and Parsons Green. She has over ten years of experience in property and has run the sales team of Winkworth Fulham and Parsons Green office for the past seven years. With a strong work ethic and in-depth industry knowledge, Faith has gone from strength to strength. Her rise to directorship shows the importance of perseverance and self-belief.
Undeterred by gender stereotypes, Faith believes anyone can achieve success through the merit of hard work. She commented, “Regardless of whether you’re a man or a woman, we’re in an industry where the harder you work, the better you do. You should believe in yourself, and don’t let gender stereotypes hold you back.”
Faith purchased her franchise in December 2021 alongside her business partner Georgia Everton-Wallach. The pair were the first female agents on their West London patch. Faith commented, “Winkworth has massively supported us in our franchise buy-out. Having the franchise has given me flexibility with my family. It’s been a positive move and I’m so grateful for all their support.”
Rosella Short: Confidence and self-belief are key
Rosella Short is the Director at Winkworth Ferndown, which she opened in 2021. Rosella's entrepreneurial journey is a testament to her resilience and confidence. Driven and hardworking, Rosella joined the industry when she was 17. After working for one of London’s biggest corporate agents, she decided to take the next step. As she had grown up in Dorset, the chance to open her own office in Ferndown felt like the perfect opportunity. Running her own business has always been Rosella’s dream, but it hasn’t been without its challenges.
“Opening a cold-start office on a high street with seven estate agents was a challenging time for me. There were early starts and late nights for what felt like little reward for a while. We’re now number one or two on sales agreed and instructions most months, so the hard work is starting to pay off!”
Giving advice to women looking to join the profession, Rosella said, “Stick with it. So many people come to the industry thinking they will be an overnight success, but it takes time. My business will be three years old this summer and clients are now coming back to me to help them with their next move. It feels really rewarding.”
To find out more about careers at Winkworth, please contact the Franchising Team at 020 7355 0289
