Meet Latisha Dhir

What is your role at Avison Young?

I am a Senior Consultant in our PDR/ Financial consulting team, specialising in public sector delivery.

How did you get into commercial real estate?

Honest answer – by emailing everyone and anyone I could! During my final year masters I kept getting rejected from graduate programmes so I decided to reach out to a chief executive and volunteer at a housing association in the Midlands. I was then offered a full time post and over the last 9 years I developed myself as a Senior role specialist in affordable housing delivery.

Who has been the biggest influence in your life and why?

Although he is no longer here, my grandad was my role model. He left his native country in the early 70’s with just £5 to his name. He had no family here, sofa surfed and worked day and night to save enough money to bring his family, including my dad, over to the UK in search of a better life. He instilled in me a strong work ethic to keep pushing, regardless of any barriers, and to stay grateful and humble with every opportunity you get. I am always forever grateful for the risk he took as I wouldn’t be where I am today.

What is the best advice you've ever received?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and make mistakes – they are some of the most powerful things you can do to make you strong as a professional.

And the advice I would give to the young women who are starting their careers - Get involved. Don't be afraid to speak to your peers, network and build your own profile. Also, don't be afraid to ask for help and also do some research into the workplace to see what support they can offer you to grow your skills, i.e. mentoring.

How has Avison Young supported you as a woman in business?

Since day one, Avison Young has always treated me no differently from their male colleagues. This might seem silly but starting your career on construction sites can often be quite challenging as a woman, so it was a breath of fresh air to come to a company who genuinely cares about their staff. As a woman I feel positive about the outlook for this company but I still feel we have areas to grow and topics to tackle and I hope that I can continue to be a part of this conversation.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I used to be a street dancer – popping and locking to be specific!