Greystar and Lendlease leads join Real Estate Balance board

Greystar UK managing director Michela Hancock and Lendlease group chief executive Andrea Ruckstuhl have joined the board of Real Estate Balance. Their appointments come as membership of the industry body, which is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in the real estate industry, grows to 130. Since its establishment 2015, Real Estate Balance has been supporting its members to make progress in achieving an equitable, diverse and inclusive culture. Now, with two new board members in place and an expanded membership, the group said it was set to further accelerate EDI progress across the UK real estate industry. Avison Young UK executive chair Jo Davis, who took over as chair of Real Estate Balance in April, said: “We had an unprecedented number of applications for the board positions from senior leaders throughout our industry – this was a very difficult decision to make. Michela has been involved with Real Estate Balance for many years through our policy and campaigns committee and brings a wealth of EDI experience with her. Andrea is newer to the organisation and brings the fresh insights and perspectives. Both are outstanding real estate leaders and by introducing this extra resource at a time when the industry’s growing commitment to EDI is clearly visible through the arrival of our 130th member, we’re setting up a strong foundation for an inspiring and impactful future.” Greystar’s Hancock said: “Joining the Real Estate Balance board is an incredible honour and I look forward to supporting the industry to become more diverse and inclusive alongside Sue Brown, Jo Davis and the executive team. DEI boosts creativity and innovation, supports organisations to be more adaptable and resilient, and enhances the health and performance of our industry as a whole. It’s our responsibility to bring awareness to existing challenges, identify best practices, facilitate and enable change and celebrate success. I’m excited to join a team that’s working to create a fairer, more equitable industry that attracts and retains talent from across our society.” Lendlease’s Ruckstuhl added: “I believe passionately in the power of innovation to create positive outcomes for individuals and communities. Innovation happens best when you get diverse expertise and viewpoints together and when everyone feels included and able to contribute fully. That is why I am committed to the vision of Real Estate Balance and I look forward to working with the board and the wider membership to help build a fairer and more inclusive real estate industry.”