BOOK NOW | The Future is Female
Join Place North West, Close Brothers Property Finance, and Velux as we celebrate and explore the ways women are transforming their communities through property development and regeneration.
Studies show that when cities and communities are designed with women’s needs in mind, they function better for everyone. For this to happen, women must have a prominent seat at the table during development, whether that’s in the private or public sector.
We have assembled a dynamic panel of industry leaders and diversity champions for a frank discussion on 25 February in Manchester about how to encourage more women to join the property industry – as well as to engage with the good work already being done.
While women are the focus of this event, this discussion is for all professionals, regardless of their gender. The discussion will also cover how male allies can support their female colleagues and be a force for change in their own business.
Join us as we work together to build better.
Speakers confirmed
Cllr Arooj Shah, Leader, Oldham Council | Shah is a leading voice in local government and the first Muslim woman to lead a council in the North of England. A lifelong Oldham resident, she has served as Leader of Oldham Council since May 2023 and holds the Growth portfolio, driving major regeneration projects including a transformative town centre programme. She also serves as Equalities and Communities Lead for Greater Manchester Combined Authority and chairs the LGA’s Neighbourhoods Committee, reflecting her commitment to tackling inequality and empowering communities. Beyond her formal roles, Shah works closely with local groups to build pride and deliver a better Oldham.
Rachael Cunliffe, founder and director, engage 5 | Cunliffe supports organisations to grow strategically by building strong networks, generating new opportunities, and developing long-term client relationships. She helps businesses increase visibility, strengthen market presence, and achieve sustainable growth. She is a committed advocate for diversity and inclusion in the built environment. As former Chair of Women in Property North West, she played a key role in supporting and empowering women to progress into leadership roles. Recognised for her integrity, collaborative leadership style, and people-focused mindset, Cunliffe is driven by the belief that a more inclusive industry is stronger, fairer, and more sustainable.
Michele Steel, chief executive, Regeneration Brainery | Steel has been chief executive of Regeneration Brainery since 2024, having spent almost 25 years in the property industry as a planning advisor, firstly at Deloitte Real Estate where she was also head of real estate NW; and latterly at Vita Group/Select Property Group. She is passionate about social mobility and making the property industry more diverse – from the ground up. Regeneration Brainery is a social mobility programme for brilliant young minds, designed to get young people from diverse, under-represented backgrounds inspired about a career in property and regeneration so that the places we create are more reflective of the society we live in. The award-winning inspirational careers programme has worked with over 7,000 young people across the UK to date, giving them unique insights into the industry through free weeklong workshops, work placements, internships, mentoring opportunities and networking events.
Ian Scott, chief executive, Ocasa Homes | Scott joined the Castleforge-owned asset management business in October to double the number of units in its portfolio within five years. He is passionate about improving diversity within the industry.
Krista Powell, partner and head of Manchester, Napthens | Powell is a real estate partner at Napthens and head of the firm’s Manchester office, where she is leading the growth of the practice. With over 20 years’ experience in non-contentious commercial property law, she provides commercial, pragmatic advice and innovative solutions, acting for investors, developers, lenders and owner-occupiers in relation to acquisitions, disposals and landlord and tenant matters across all sectors. Her work includes dealing with large-scale residential developments, investor portfolios, buy-and-build groups and hotel operators; supporting businesses that contribute significantly to the regional economy and beyond.
The Future is Female is sponsored by Close Brothers Property Finance, partnering with VELUX.
This event will take place between 5pm and 8pm on Wednesday 25 February at Manchester Hall.
Agenda
5pm Guest arrival
5.30pm Panel discussion, chaired by Julia Hatmaker
6.30pm Networking and refreshments
8pm Guest departure
