A CFO's journey through leadership, motherhood & sustainable student accommodation

Vicky Skinner, CFO of Urbanest, shares how returning to her executive role just four months after giving birth made her a more effective leader. She discusses Urbanest's growth from 5 assets to nearly 6,500 beds, the resilience of London's student accommodation market, and practical strategies for balancing motherhood with demanding leadership roles in property. Topics covered: 00:00:00 - 00:04:44 Career changes from finance to real estate 00:04:44 - 00:09:52 Growing a business while growing a family 00:09:53 - 00:13:46 How I approach leadership and career growth 00:13:47 - 00:22:03 Balancing work and pregnancy 00:22:03 - 00:41:04 Preparing for maternity leave as a team 00:41:05 - 00:54:04 How I support and grow my team 00:54:05 - 00:58:59 Staying resilient in a changing market 00:59:00 - 01:03:34 Facing industry challenges and planning ahead 01:03:35 - 01:05:00 Quick fire questions