Keeley Child

Director of Property Management, Thornley Groves

1. Personal & Professional Journey

Can you tell us a little about your background and how you got started in the property industry?

I had just finished my A-levels and was preparing to take a gap year before starting university. But I was eager to earn some money, so I took a job as a lettings administrator. Deep down, I already knew the university path wasn’t really for me. I’ve never been particularly academic, but I’ve always had a strong work ethic and knew I wanted to get stuck into something practical as soon as possible. I’ve also always loved working with people, and that’s ultimately why property, particularly property management, felt like such a good fit. It’s a people business at its core, and I thrive in that kind of environment.

What inspired you to pursue a career in property?

I’ve always been naturally drawn to problem-solving and working closely with people, so property management came quite organically to me. No two days are the same, and that keeps things exciting. I enjoy the challenge and the satisfaction of resolving issues and building strong relationships with clients and colleagues alike.

How has your journey with Lomond evolved so far?

Lomond acquired the business back in 2013, and looking back, it’s been an incredible journey. I started out as a property manager and, through a lot of learning and support, worked my way up to become Director of Property Management. If someone had told my 21-year-old self that I’d be a Director by the time I was 32, I honestly would have laughed, but Lomond has been amazing at opening up opportunities I never imagined. I’ve had brilliant mentors, access to training and development, and the freedom to grow into roles I didn’t think were within reach for someone like me.

2. Role & Impact

What does your current role involve, and what do you love most about it?

As Director of Property Management, I’m responsible for overseeing our property management teams and ensuring we deliver a high standard of service across the board. It’s a big job with big responsibilities, but what I love most is being able to make a tangible difference, both to our clients and to my team. I’m passionate about developing people, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see team members grow in confidence and progress in their careers.

Can you share a project, deal, or moment you're especially proud of?

Being appointed Director of Property Management was definitely a stand-out moment for me. It was recognition of years of hard work, but also a signal that Lomond believed in me and trusted me to lead. It was one of those full-circle moments, where all the challenges and lessons along the way felt completely worth it.

How do you feel your work is making a difference in your team, region, or community?

I really believe that leadership is about lifting others up. By focusing on developing and retaining talent in our teams, we’re not just improving service, we’re creating a culture where people feel valued and supported. When people feel supported, they stay, they grow, and they perform better. That, in turn, builds stronger client relationships and helps stabilise our landlords. So I see my work as having a ripple effect, one that goes beyond just the business numbers.

3. Leadership & Representation

What does it mean to you to be a Lomond Women Representative?

It’s a real honour. For me, it’s about showing that leadership can look different, and that women, no matter their background, can rise in this industry. I want to use my platform to help others feel seen and to create space for honest conversations about the challenges and wins women experience in property.

Why do you believe representation and visibility of women in property leadership is so important?

Seeing is believing. When women see others like them in leadership roles, it makes those positions feel more accessible and achievable. It sends a clear message that there's space for them at the top too. Starting a family shouldn’t automatically mean pressing pause on a career, unless that’s a choice someone actively wants to make. It’s about having the flexibility and support to do both, and representation plays a big part in showing that it’s possible.

Have you had any role models or mentors who have helped shape your path?

Yes, there have been a few key people in the business along the way who really took the time to invest in me, challenge me, and encourage me to believe in myself. Their support made all the difference. My biggest role models are my parents, who have always demonstrated a very strong work ethic. 

4. Challenges & Growth

What challenges have you faced as a woman in the industry, and how did you overcome them?

There have definitely been moments where I felt I had to prove myself more because I was a young woman (not so young now ha ha) in a leadership role. Sometimes people assume you don’t have the experience or authority but I’ve found that consistently showing up, doing the work, and staying true to your values always saves the day. I’ve learned to trust my instincts and speak up, even when it feels uncomfortable.

How do you stay motivated and resilient in a fast-paced and competitive environment?

Honestly, I focus on the people. Whether it's my team or our clients, reminding myself of the real-world impact of what we do keeps me grounded. I also do my best to make time to step back, reflect, and reset when things get hectic. You can’t pour from an empty cup!   

5. Empowerment & Advice

What advice would you give to young women starting out in property or leadership roles?

Back yourself. You don’t have to have all the answers straight away, what matters is your attitude and your willingness to learn. Ask questions, be curious, and don’t be afraid to speak up.  Surround yourself with people who support and challenge you in equal measure.

What’s one mindset or habit that’s helped you succeed?

Staying solution-focused. There will always be problems and setbacks, but I try to look at what can be done instead of dwelling on what can’t. That shift in mindset has helped me navigate some tough situations. I also live by the metaphor of “watering my own grass”.  Reminds me to focus on my own growth and goals rather than comparing myself to others.  

How do you support and uplift other women in your team or network?

I try to create a safe space for honest conversations. I want the women in my team to know they can come to me with challenges, questions, or ideas and be heard without judgment. I also make it a point to celebrate wins, big or small!

6. The Bigger Picture

What changes would you like to see in the property industry to better support women?

More flexible pathways into leadership, and more inclusive conversations. Leadership shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all. We need to value different communication styles, different strengths, and different life experiences, because that’s where real innovation and growth happen.

What are your hopes for the future of women at Lomond?

I’d love to see more women stepping into senior roles and being empowered to shape the future of the business. We’ve got so much talent within the group, it’s just about nurturing it and creating the right conditions for it to thrive.  

How do you think initiatives like Lomond Women help create meaningful change?

They help bring visibility, spark conversation , and build a sense of community. Sometimes just knowing you’re not alone in your experiences is incredibly powerful & meaningful.