For our latest recruit, it was our focus on client care and proven track record, which made the prospect of a move to Vail Williams, an exciting one.
Stephane Edwards, who has just joined our growing property asset management team as an associate in Thames Valley, specialises in landlord and tenant, insurance and property asset management matters.
She joins us from Pearce & Company, which she re-joined in 2013 after training there years before.
We chatted to her to find out more about what she enjoys in life, and why she chose to join Vail Williams.
How long were you at Pearce & Co. and what did you specialise in?
I re-joined Pearce & Company in January 2013 after training with them many years ago, to work alongside the Senior Partner of the firm. I specialised in Commercial Estate Management and Landlord & Tenant work.
What attracted you to your new post at Vail Williams?
It was the ethos of client care and the proven track record that Vail Williams has as a company, for being an excellent employer.
What are your ambitions in the role?
I aim to become a partner and to become an APC assessor, helping students to become qualified members of the RICS.
What’s the best thing about working in property, and why?
The role is fantastic due the variety of the work and the ability to visit sites and interact with both clients and tenants. No one day is ever the same!.
What was your first ever job?
I used to be a dance teacher.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
To take time to listen to other people, to work hard and always believe you can make a positive difference to others.
If you had to recommend a good book, what would it be, and why?
Roots by Alex Hailey. You may have seen the series on BBC 3 recently, but it’s a tail of survival and success from severe adversity, and a book that I could not put down.
Tell us a surprising fact about yourself.
I love rugby and currently manage the U15 girls rugby team for Reading Rugby and Football club.
Have you ever had a hair-raising moment, if so, what was it?
Yes, having a large adult male macaque monkey burst into my open balcony bedroom in India. It came to steal some crisps I had on my bed. It was pretty scary, and I didn’t hang around I locked myself in the bathroom!
What’s your favourite band?
David Bowie
If you could work in any other profession, what would it be and why?
I would have become a landscape designer; I love the outdoors and plants.