We recently caught up with Hayley, one of our talented Senior Surveyors based in Newcastle, to find out more about her journey into the property industry, her experiences across the North East and Yorkshire regions, and what advice she would give to others looking to follow in her footsteps. From working in the public sector to being shortlisted for a national industry award, Hayley brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the Aitchison Raffety team. Here’s what she had to say…
Q1. What inspired you to pursue a career in surveying?
My interest in surveying was sparked by a passion for property, and the built environment—combined with a strong appreciation for how these assets underpin both economic activity and community development. Surveying offered a unique balance of technical work, strategic thinking, and real-world impact, which really appealed to me.
Working in the public sector early in my career gave me a deep understanding of the broader social and regulatory contexts surrounding property. I was involved in valuations not just for commercial gain, but also to support decisions around planning, regeneration, and public service delivery. This instilled in me a rigorous, transparent, and community-oriented approach to valuations. I learned to consider not only market value but also long-term social value, compliance, and public accountability—an approach I’ve carried with me into the private sector.
Q2. You work across a broad spectrum of assets inc. commercial, residential and development. What do you enjoy most about this variety in your role?
One of the most rewarding aspects of working across commercial, residential, and development assets is the diversity in challenges and opportunities each sector presents. Each asset type has its own dynamics—residential requires an understanding of people’s lifestyles and community needs, commercial involves market trends and business viability, and development is all about vision, planning, and long-term value creation. What I enjoy most is how this variety keeps the role dynamic and engaging. It also gives me a broader perspective on market cycles and investment strategies, which is invaluable when advising clients.
Q3. You were recently shortlisted for the RICS Matrics Surveyor of the Year Awards (congratulations!) What did that recognition mean to you, and how has it impacted your professional journey?
Thank you! Being shortlisted for the Matrics Valuation Surveyor of the Year award in 2023 was a real honour and a moment of reflection more than anything – it reminded me how far I’ve come and reinforced the value of the work I do. Recognition like that isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s a testament to the support of great people and the trust of clients and collaborators over the years.
Professionally, it opened up new conversations and opportunities. More than anything, though, it was a motivator – to keep growing, keep learning, and keep contributing meaningfully across the work I do.
Q4: The North East and Yorkshire regions are undergoing a lot of change, what trends or developments are you currently seeing in the market?
A few key trends stand out at this time in the North East and Yorkshire regions, including Levelling Up and Infrastructure Investment; Growth in the Built-to-Rent and PRS Sectors; Repositioning of Commercial Spaces and Sustainability pressures. All of these shifts are being shaped by evolving buyer behaviours and legislative changes.
Government initiatives and regional funding are helping to attract investment. Projects like rail upgrades, freeports, and city-centre regeneration schemes are creating long-term opportunities, particularly for mixed-use and commercial developments.
Across all asset types, sustainability is now a non-negotiable, demanding higher ESG standards. Therefore, linked to the rethink of office and retail space following occupational shifts, landlords and developers are retrofitting existing stock and designing future-proof developments where possible. In cities like Leeds and Newcastle, there’s a noticeable shift towards professionally managed rental developments.
Q5. What advice would you give to aspiring female surveyors who are looking to build a successful career in the property and valuation industry?
My advice for anyone with aspirations of building a career in surveying would be to build a solid technical foundation, ‘master your tools’ and become confident with the work you are doing. The industry is evolving all the time, so it is important to stay updated with new trends and markets.
More specifically to aspiring female surveyors, especially those with an interest in valuation, I would suggest seeking out mentors and role models – women already in the field who can give guidance and support. Don’t hesitate to reach out for mentorship! I had a mentor who ‘passed down the ladder’ to me, and I make it my goal to continue to support others on their journey the same way someone once gave me the guidance I needed.
Q6. And finally, please could you tell us a fun / interesting fact about yourself.
A fun fact about me…more of a little party trick really – I can touch my nose with my tongue!
A big thank you to Hayley for sharing her story and offering such valuable advice. We’re proud to have her as part of the Aitchison Raffety team and look forward to seeing her continue to thrive in her career.