As the real estate industry evolves beyond assets and infrastructure, women leaders are increasingly shaping how workplaces are designed, managed and experienced. Their influence is redefining leadership with greater purpose, empathy and long-term impact. While industry estimates suggest women make up nearly 30 percent of the global real estate workforce, their representation at senior leadership levels remains below 15 percent.
Ria Singh, a senior leader in corporate real estate and workplace management, reflects on a sector historically shaped by male-centric leadership structures, particularly at senior levels. Rather than seeing this as a limitation, she chose to focus on building credibility through consistent performance and measurable outcomes. Her journey reflects a quiet but determined approach to leadership rooted in results rather than visibility.
“You do not need to be the loudest voice in the room to be heard. Over time, competence and clarity earn respect,” Ria observes. She believes the momentum for women in real estate is evident. “Today’s women are showing up with confidence, capability and conviction. They are leading complex portfolios, influencing strategy and reshaping the industry on their own terms,” she says. “The future of real estate will be more inclusive, more sustainable and more human and women will be central to that change.”
Ria has witnessed a significant shift in the role of corporate real estate over the years. What was once viewed as a largely operational function has evolved into a strategic business enabler. Workplace decisions today directly influence organisational culture, productivity, employee wellbeing and talent retention.
“Real estate leaders are no longer just managing spaces,” she explains. “They are shaping experiences that support how people work today. Real estate is ultimately about people, not just buildings or square footage. When workplaces are designed with empathy and intent, the impact is visible in engagement, safety and performance.”
Known for her people-centric leadership style, Ria emphasises that empathy and accountability are not opposing forces. “Being people focused does not mean lowering standards,” she notes. “It means understanding the human impact of decisions while still delivering strong business outcomes.”
As the industry continues to evolve, perspectives such as Ria’s reflect a broader shift in how leadership within real estate is being defined. Purpose-driven decision-making, inclusive thinking and human-centred designs are no longer optional. They are becoming essential qualities of modern real estate leadership, signalling a more balanced and forward-looking future for the industry.
