All Episodes

August 8, 2024 48 mins

Ever wondered how a police officer's daughter rose to become the COO of a leading student property company? Hear Joanne Pollard's remarkable journey from her early days to the helm of Empiric Student Property PLC. Joanne opens up about her career path, spanning from Marks & Spencer management trainee to influential roles at Legal & General, Abbey National, and Bupa. This episode is a treasure trove for aspiring leaders, especially women balancing demanding careers with motherhood, as Joanne candidly discusses her shift to the student accommodation sector and its trajectory towards better standards and support for young adults.

We dive deep into the critical issue of increasing ethnic diversity at senior leadership levels. Joanne shares her insights on the systemic barriers that hinder progress and the importance of targeted initiatives like the Parker Review. Learn how authentic leadership and intentional recruitment practices can transform organizational culture. Discover the role of employer branding in driving meaningful change and how collaboration can significantly enhance diversity and inclusion efforts within industries, especially in the Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) sector.

Building a sense of community within organizations isn't just a buzzword for Joanne—it's a proven strategy for success. Using Empiric as a case study, she discusses how innovative approaches to student accommodation can foster supportive environments that boost customer satisfaction and commercial success. Joanne’s reflections on the importance of self-belief, determination, and mentorship provide invaluable lessons for anyone aiming for long-term success. Tune in for a compelling conversation that underscores the necessity of sustainability, diversity, and a healthy work-life balance in achieving both personal and professional growth.

Website:
www.dialglobal.org

Join our membership:
https://www.dialglobal.org/membership

Our DEI solutions:
https://www.dialglobal.org/solutions

Continue the conversation on LinkedIn

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!

The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club

The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy And Charlamagne Tha God!

The Joe Rogan Experience

The Joe Rogan Experience

The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.