As part of our ongoing spotlight on the next generation of industry leaders, we spoke with a current participant in Property Council New Zealand’s Emerging Leaders Programme (ELP) to explore how the programme is shaping the skills, confidence, and career pathways of emerging talent in the property sector.
Louisa Devine didn’t set out with a clear plan to work in property—but six years on, she’s building a career defined by purpose, growth, and leadership. Now an Associate Development Manager at Classic Developments, Louisa has progressed through the industry by embracing its diversity, fast pace, and the opportunity to shape communities.
As a mentee in the programme, Louisa has taken a more intentional approach to her career, gaining confidence, clarity, and a stronger sense of her own leadership style. In this interview, she reflects on how “falling into” the property industry led to a fulfilling career, the value of learning from peers and mentors, and how the programme has helped her back herself as a leader and look ahead with purpose.
Meet Louisa Devine
Louisa Devine is an Associate Development Manager at Classic Developments, with six years of experience in the property industry. Louisa holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Management and is passionate about contributing to projects that positively shape communities.
How did you first find your way into the property industry?
“I fell into it. After completing my Bachelor of Commerce without a clear career direction, a recruiter encouraged me to take a support role at a property development company to get my foot in the door. I quickly realised how diverse, fast paced, and impactful the sector is, and found myself drawn to the many pathways it offers. This sparked a drive to learn as much as I could, leading me to my current and fulfilling role in Development Management.”
What motivated you to apply for the Property Council’s Emerging Leaders Programme?
“I’ve always valued the collaborative nature of the property industry, where companies, even competitors, support each other to achieve shared outcomes. The ELP programme felt like a great opportunity to explore this, challenge myself beyond my day-to-day role, and take a more intentional approach to my career through networking and insight from a mentor.”
What has been the most valuable or eye-opening part of the programme so far?
“Hearing open and honest stories from other leaders has been very insightful. It’s a reminder that leadership isn’t linear, and that growth often comes just as much from challenges and reflection as it does from successes. It’s also reassuring to know that even experienced leaders are still learning. A key takeaway for me has been recognising the value you bring at any stage of your career and backing yourself in that.”
How has ELP helped you grow or challenged your thinking as a leader?
“ELP has encouraged me to rethink my approach to leadership. Rather than trying to replicate others, I’ve learned to lean into my own strengths and recognise the unique style I bring. Leadership isn’t about ticking every box – it’s about being intentional, authentic, and confident in your value.”
Have there been any standout moments, people, or lessons that have stayed with you?
“The Lunch and Learn sessions have been particularly valuable, providing space to reflect and connect with other mentees on similar journeys. My mentor has shared useful insights into what has shaped their career and the decisions they’ve made, which has helped me consider my next steps and experiment with my own approach to leadership.”
What impact has being part of ELP had on you or your career so far?
“The programme has given me more confidence, clarity, and a stronger sense of the kind of leader I want to be. It’s influenced the way I approach challenges and take deliberate steps to grow my career. Engaging with peers and mentors has broadened my perspective and reinforced the importance of leaning into your strengths while continuing to learn.“
Would you recommend the programme to others in the industry? If so, why, and who do you think would benefit most?
“Absolutely! Whether you’re thriving, feeling stuck, or considering your career ahead, the programme helps to bring fresh perspective. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day, so stepping outside of it through something like the ELP can help reenergise your thinking and provide a clear path forward. The programme is definitely what you make of it.“
Louisa’s experience highlights the core purpose of the Emerging Leaders Programme: supporting emerging talent at pivotal stages of their careers.
Through meaningful connections, honest conversations, and time to reflect, the programme helps participants build confidence and better understand the value they bring as leaders. It encourages emerging professionals to lean into their strengths, approach their careers with intention, and take the next step forward. As Louisa’s journey shows, investing in people early plays a vital role in shaping both individual careers and the future of the property industry.
About the programme
The Emerging Leaders programme is a dynamic experience that combines proven leadership strategies with mentorship from experienced industry professionals, empowering mentees to grow and excel in their careers.
The 2026 programme offers:
- An immersive in-person Emerging Leaders Training Day in Auckland on 20 April 2026.
- Regular individual meetings with an experienced industry mentor committed to your success. Emerging Leaders and mentors will be paired for the year to enable a robust and enduring professional relationship.
- Three interactive online ‘ELP Exchange’ sessions designed to share insights from property professionals and foster meaningful communication and networking among peers.
- A half-day Leadership Workshop and wrap-up celebration.
Applications close at 5:00 pm, Friday 27 February 2026 and has a limited intake of just 20 emerging leader and mentor pairs.
Apply for the Emerging Leaders Programme 2026
Become the leader you strive to be with our property-specific mentoring programme, offering continuous improvement for the emerging leader.
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