For International Women's Day 2026 we spoke to two of the incredible women who continue to make a meaningful impact across our organisation.

CHLOE CHAN:

What support or opportunities within our business have helped you progress in your career, and what has been most valuable to you?

Oyster has been incredibly supportive in encouraging learning and development beyond the business. I’ve been given the opportunity to attend three TBB legal courses, participate in a Women in Property networking panel, and I’m booked into a property management workshop for June 2026. These opportunities have expanded my industry knowledge, built my confidence, and helped me grow both professionally and personally.

How has our company’s culture or initiatives helped you navigate challenges and grow professionally?

From day one, both the Property team and the wider business have been incredibly supportive and genuinely invested in my success. I’m incredibly grateful to have such a supportive manager Alex has been my sounding board, teacher, and guide since I started. That support has shaped my confidence, my skill set, and my willingness to take on new challenges. I joined Oyster with no property degree and only one year of facilities management experience, and eleven months later I am now an Assistant Property Manager with my own small portfolio, while also assisting with other assets. Having a strong support system and a company that believes in your potential makes all the difference.

What skills or experiences have been most impactful in your development, and how has the business supported you in building them?

Oyster’s culture/values of encouraging people to be courageous and take ownership regardless of their experience level. Within my first six months, I had the opportunity to lead a lease deal with the mentorship of my manager. Having that trust placed in me so early on gave me a huge confidence boost and made me feel more engaged in the business. Since then, I’ve continued to put my hand up to lead new workstreams, take on challenges, and back myself, all because Oyster fosters an environment where growth is genuinely supported.

What advice would you give to other women looking to develop their careers within our industry, based on your own journey?

My biggest advice is to get involved in as much as you can. Sometimes the things you don’t expect to enjoy might end up surprising you. I’ve been fortunate to work across a variety of workstreams, which has helped me understand what I enjoy, what interests me, and how different parts of the business and industry connect.

I also think it’s really valuable to talk to people across the business and hear about their growth journeys. As a woman, I’ve found it particularly inspiring to hear from other women at Oyster about their paths. Commercial property leaders has traditionally been quite male‑dominated, so connecting with and learning from women who have built successful careers is incredibly empowering.

JENNIFER ANDREWS:

Women of Impact in Property – Nomination

Jennifer has demonstrated exceptional commitment to strengthening capability, diversity, and leadership within the property sector. Her contributions span mentoring, industry education, talent development, and active support for emerging professionals, making her an exemplary candidate for the Women of Impact Award.

Sector Impact

Jennifer has played an influential role in lifting sector capability through her ongoing involvement with the Property Council’s Retail Property Fundamentals programme. As a regular presenter, she has delivered sessions covering investment, valuation, and leasing, giving participants a clear understanding of the retail property sector and the pathways available within it. Her presentations are consistently well‑received and contribute to building a more informed and skilled industry workforce.

Leadership

Jen demonstrates strong leadership through her extensive mentoring across several organisations. This year, she served as a mentor for the University of Auckland’s He Ira Wāhine – The Women’s Mentoring Programme, supporting a Property and Commerce conjoint student. Previously, she has mentored through the Property Council of New Zealand and within Oyster Property Group. Her leadership extends to speaking at graduate events, where she shares practical insights into the property industry and supports the development of new talent.

Inspiration

Jen is widely recognised as an inspiring and accessible role model. Through her mentoring, presenting, and internal support at Oyster, she encourages students and early‑career professionals to pursue opportunities in the property sector. Her passion for the industry and her willingness to invest time in others makes her a motivating presence for those she works with.

Equity & Inclusion

Jennifer’s involvement with He Ira Wāhine reflects her strong commitment to improving representation of women in senior roles. By mentoring women and supporting graduates from diverse backgrounds, she contributes to a more inclusive and equitable future talent pipeline. Her work actively promotes access, confidence, and visibility for women entering the sector.

X‑Factor

Jennifer’s standout quality is the consistency and breadth of her impact. She combines technical expertise with a genuine dedication to people, giving back to the sector through education, mentoring, and advocacy. Her influence is felt not only through what she knows, but through how generously she shares it.