International Women's Day

“Having gender balance is not only the ‘right’ thing, but the ‘smart’ thing to do”

For International Women’s Day, we asked leading women to open their playbooks for success. Here, Marie Hunt, head of research at IPUT Real Estate Dublin, offers wisdom for ambitious women

“If you work hard and have patience, the rewards will come. Strive for excellence and then deliver it consistently.” Picture: Fergal Phillips

Gender balance has improved dramatically in the more than 25 years that I have worked in the commercial property industry. Flexible working patterns that are more conducive to family life will undoubtedly see this improve further in the years ahead. This is to be welcomed. Having gender balance is not only the ‘right’ thing, but the ‘smart’ thing to do.

We need better intervention at secondary school level to explain what working in this sector ...