Voices in Property -Becky Fatemi

Welcome to our quick-fire spotlight on industry leaders and entrepreneurs in Property.

In this edition, Becky Fatemi, Executive Partner at Sotheby's International Realty UK, shares personal insights and experiences with anyone who may be currently working in or aspiring to join the London property industry.

What are you most proud of in your career?

I’m proud of building something resilient and positive in an industry that isn’t always easy to navigate. As a Woman of Colour in a sector where that is still a rarity at senior level, I’ve had to be both determined and optimistic, often at the same time. What matters most to me is having grown and championed my team, and creating an environment where people feel supported, valued, and able to thrive. That legacy means far more to me than any single deal.

What was your first property job and how did you get it?

My first role was at Foxtons around 1998, but it didn’t happen easily. At the time, I assumed the only way in was as a receptionist because that’s what women were expected to do. I was refused. Instead, I took a telesales role elsewhere and ended up calling the Managing Director of Foxtons to sell him advertising space. He stopped me mid-pitch and said, “Forget that. I want you to come and work for me.” I told him I’d already tried, and HR wasn’t interested. He overruled them. The rest is history.

What motivates you?

Losing my parents and a lot of people when I was young made me appreciate life itself. Life is a blessing, and it’s also limited. That knowledge gives everything urgency. I want to devour every second, throw myself fully into what I’m doing, and make sure I’m present for it all.

What’s your best advice for preparing for an interview?

Be yourself. Be authentic. But also, be exceptionally well prepared. Know the company inside out, understand its brand and ethos, and make sure you know exactly who you’re meeting and why. Presentation matters. Energy matters. And whatever you do, do not be late.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Enjoy it. Do everything. Say yes more often than no, even if it’s a little controversial. You learn far more from living fully than from playing it safe.

Which leader, entrepreneur, founder or CEO inspires you?

Richard Branson for his fearlessness and curiosity. Jon Hunt for his instinct and drive. Amira Sajwani for her modern leadership style. George Azar for his entrepreneurial vision.

What’s been your best deal?

Selling a house for a couple who had been married for 40 years and had lived their entire life together in that home. They had no children and no family, and moving was terrifying for them. After the sale, my team and I took them to Scotland to make sure they were settled and okay. They were elderly, scared and vulnerable, and that human side of the job mattered far more than the transaction itself.

What’s your favourite restaurant?

Fischer’s in Marylebone

Galleria in W2

Royal China Club,

and China Tang.

Apple or Android?

Both.

Find out more about Sotherby's International Realty UK here and click here to connect with Becky Fatemi.

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