IWD 2026 - interview with: Katie Miles

Through CORE International Women’s Day & Months Interview Series, we explore leadership shaped by purpose, generosity, and long-term impact

We are here talking to Katie Miles, Director at Boulevardiere Ltd.

Could you share a brief overview of yourself, your career journey & how it has brought you to your current role?

My early career including shift working in hotels, that led me to a commercial role in Flex Space which then migrated into Facilities Management. IT sat with me for a short while too during that period. 

I fell into consultancy by accident. An opportunity arose via a former CEO, and I needed to set up an entity. It has led to some interesting roles, short and medium term, albeit arguably I still feel too young for the title!

What does the International Women's Day slogan "give to gain" mean for you personally, and how does it translate into your approach to leadership?

It reminds me of a film I watched years ago “pay it forward” – delivering acts of kindness or generosity without the expectation of a return. The creation of a culture where everyone contributes to help, support and encourage each-other. Women are brilliant at that.

How important is it for you to actively sponsor (not just mentor) each other, and what does that active support look like in practice?

For the majority of women in this industry, sponsorship has always been a default position, as at a senior level, we were all once the underdog. I would call upon male leaders to step up into the sponsorship role as they still hold the majority of the senior positions, and therefore majority sway. 

Can you share a specific instance where you have given your time, resources, or influence to help other women advance in their career, and what you "gained" from that experience.

Creating interview opportunity across industries, is something that I have fostered, as there used to be a more significant talent gap in the FM/Property sector. In the example that stands out, the candidate (a friend and former colleague) wasn’t successful, but it gave all parties the opportunity to appreciate fresh perspectives, and to remain open-minded about potential hires & opportunities. Careers do not always follow a straight line.

Workforce: 53.1%, Top Level Leadership: 28.8%, Gender Pay Gap: 20% Worldwide, (12% - 18% Europe & North America, 16%-19% UAE, 5% New Zealand…) What do these numbers represent to you?

The struggle for cultural change. Men in leadership positions need to appreciate that the female leader will present and communicate differently and that this will challenge the status quo. Forward thinking and genuinely talented male leaders will actively seek out balance on their board.

What trends do you see shaping the future of leadership for women in business?

The emphasis on culture, emotional intelligence and the promotion of more collaboration in the workplace suits the communication style of most women. The general workforce demographic has changed and that has to some extent driven the demand for varied work styles and spaces. 

As a successful leader, what is your top tip for fostering a workplace culture where employees feel encouraged to give feedback, share knowledge, and gain growth opportunities?

I have seen too many examples in my career where training & development has been neglected despite senior leaders concern around individual performance.  I believe investing in people, creating an environment where teams are able to perform at their best, communicating routinely, not just at an annual appraisal.

Have you had mentors or role models who influenced your career? How did they help?

I have been grateful for direct opportunities to develop my career in different directions, and trusted to take on new areas of interest, which has given me a very rounded view of business. Being encouraged to try new things knowing that you will be supported creates momentum. They paid it forward. 

What legacy do you hope to leave for the next generation of women leaders?

Resilience through authenticity, self-care and kindness.  Challenge yourself – it’s amazing what you can achieve with a little self-belief, but you need to be ready to rise to the challenge when it presents itself. Create the environment where you can be your best self.

What is one piece of advice you would give your younger self at the start of your career?

Harness the power of compound interest – both in money and relationships.