People Spotlight: Meet Leesa Zerban
Our People Spotlight series gives you an inside look at our technical experts around the world. This week, we are highlighting a regional director from a project management team in our Buildings + Places business in the United Kingdom and providing an insight into their inspiration and work.
Leesa Zerban is the sub-sector lead for the corporate real estate sector and leads a team of 40 specialist project managers in London with a specific focus on the London fit-out market. She has considerable experience in delivering corporate fit-out projects and programs for global clients.
After spending over a decade in the Middle East working on new build construction and commercial projects, Leesa returned to the UK. Since then, she has successfully led major programs for HSBC, Lloyd’s Banking Group and National Highways.
Leesa is a prominent and very active voice within the UK and India business community. Shortly after joining, she quickly became an active participant and a lead in the London Women’s Network, which has 150 members and where she quickly found great support. Her passion for this group resulted in nomination and appointment as the chair of the Gender Alliance Employee Resource Group for Europe & India. In this role, she champions inclusivity and equity, promoting best practices across teams and broader business operations.
Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.
Growing up, I was very aware of the building industry since many of my family members worked in the sector. Initially, I planned to focus on law and take a different direction, but my early exposure to the industry sparked a passion that I couldn’t ignore. Once I set my mind on it, my family helped me identify an educational path that offered the broadest opportunities in the sector, even though I wasn’t sure what I wanted to specialize in at the time.
I was inspired by a passion for listed buildings — buildings, objects or structures that have national importance in terms of their architectural or historic interest — and a commitment to improving and extending their lifetimes. My academic path began with a degree in building surveying, as this degree seemed like the best option to gain a broad knowledge profile. Studying at the University of Brighton, England, provided me with a strong foundation in project management, cost management and building surveying.
After completing my studies, I spent a year in the UK before moving to the Middle East for a decade. The opportunity to work internationally on major projects motivated me to advance in the industry and highlighted the growth opportunities available within the building sector.
My initial focus on building surveying naturally evolved into project management, reflecting my strong interpersonal skills and ability to lead teams effectively. Over time, I discovered a passion for tackling complex project management challenges and thriving under tight deadlines to deliver exceptional value to clients.
I was inspired by a passion for listed buildings — buildings, objects or structures that have national importance in terms of their architectural or historic interest — and a commitment to improving and extending their lifetimes.
What are the biggest issues currently facing the fit-out sector?
As someone deeply involved in the London fit-out market, I can tell you that this sector is currently navigating several significant challenges. These issues are shaped by a combination of economic pressures, environmental concerns and evolving work trends.
Firstly, supply chain disruptions have been a major hurdle. Brexit, coupled with global issues and the volatility of the UK economy, has severely impacted material availability. This has led to increased costs for both materials and labour. As a result, project delays or scaling back have become quite common.
Another key challenge is the shift towards hybrid working. This trend is now firmly established and has specific requirements. Modern businesses are seeking flexible office spaces that cater to a variety of work styles, including collaborative areas, quiet zones, and remote-friendly setups. Meeting these diverse needs is crucial for attracting and retaining talent, and it requires a thoughtful approach to office design.
Sustainability is also a growing focus in the fit-out sector. Corporate organizations are increasingly aiming for high sustainability targets, driven by both regulations and corporate goals. This means designing energy-efficient spaces that consider carbon footprints and embrace the principles of the circular economy and reuse. This trend is expected to grow as businesses work harder to fulfil their environmental responsibilities.
Navigating these challenges requires a strategic approach and a deep understanding of the market dynamics. By staying informed and adaptable, we work closely and thoughtfully with our clients to achieve their goals despite these obstacles.
Sustainability is also a growing focus in the fit-out sector. Corporate organizations are increasingly aiming for high sustainability targets, driven by both regulations and corporate goals. This means designing energy-efficient spaces that consider carbon footprints and embrace the principles of the circular economy and reuse.
Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work at AECOM is the ability to positively impact the community through our collaborative approach. By working closely with specialists in cost management, building engineering and sustainability, we can offer comprehensive solutions that drive meaningful change.
In the fit-out sector, one of the biggest challenges we face is reducing whole life carbon emissions. The short-term nature of office tenancies often leads to frequent strip-outs and replacements, which significantly contribute to carbon emissions. Unlike other construction sectors, there are currently no stringent requirements driving carbon reduction in this area.
To tackle this, our cross-disciplinary teams — specifically my cost and sustainability colleagues — work together to support clients in focusing on reuse over full replacement.
We address carbon reduction through three key stages: First, we collaborate with clients to make strategic decisions on retention and reuse. Second, we choose systems that use considerably less embodied carbon. Finally, we carefully select components and reduce material usage where possible.
By adopting this approach, we have seen real results and increased interest from the sector. It’s incredibly rewarding to influence the sector positively and work collaboratively towards a common goal. The decarbonization of the fit-out sector is a collective effort, requiring the participation of clients, manufacturers and service providers alike. Together, we can drive meaningful change and create a more sustainable future.
We address carbon reduction through three key stages: First, we collaborate with clients to make strategic decisions on retention and reuse. Second, we choose systems that use considerably less embodied carbon. Finally, we carefully select components and reduce material usage where possible. By adopting this approach, we have seen real results and increased interest from the sector.
Share a piece of career advice
My career advice is rooted in my extensive experience and passion for the building industry. I emphasize the importance of gaining practical experience early on. “Get your boots on the ground,” I advise, encouraging shadowing or placement opportunities to see if the industry is the right fit. Working throughout my degree provided me with valuable insights that were instrumental in my career.
For women entering the sector, I highlight the importance of finding a safe space surrounded by like-minded, career-progressive individuals. It’s especially critical to have strong role models, both men and women, who can encourage, support and promote you. I credit my own mentor for much of my success and now pay it forward by guiding others. I believe in listening rather than giving advice, fostering long-lasting relationships with those I support from various regions, including the UAE.
I also advocate for working in different environments and countries. It’s a phenomenal learning experience that can significantly enhance career progression. Exposure to different cultures and working styles broadens one’s perspective and skills.
My key piece of advice is to “take opportunities, not risks.” By finding strong role models and becoming one yourself, you can create a supportive network that will help you navigate your career. My journey underscores the importance of practical experience, embracing opportunities, and building a network to grow and succeed in the building industry.
Read the latest on low carbon office fit-out cost model.