Meet the female leaders in MelbourneÕs property industry

The Age

Leadership roles in the property industry remain dominated by men, but the tide is turning. HodgesÕs Carmel Baker last year became the second woman to take charge of a major real estate agency in Victoria after Harcourts chief executive Sadhana Smiles. They are among less than 10 per cent of female chief executives in the industry, according to a report by consultants Ernst & Young. The 2014 report reveals women occupy only about one in four management positions, while below management roles are spread more evenly. With real estate overtaking mining to become AustraliaÕs most profitable industry, and to mark International WomenÕs Day, we take a look at some of the women leading the charge in Melbourne. Esther Yong from ACproperty.com.au is one of shining stars.