“Credibility isn’t just about expertise, it’s also about showing up, speaking up and fostering trust.”

You’ve worked with Atterbury Europe’s Cypriot companies from the audit side. What made you decide to join the team from ‘the other side of the table’?

Working in audit allowed me to collaborate with many organisations and gain a broad perspective on how companies operate, manage risk and approach governance. Over time, however, I became increasingly interested in being more directly involved in the improvement process within an organisation. As an auditor, you often identify opportunities and provide recommendations, but you are not the one implementing them or seeing their long-term impact.

Joining the team gives me the opportunity to contribute more actively, help shape processes, work closely with colleagues across departments, and see how ideas and improvements evolve from concept to implementation.

How does finance contribute to creating better experiences for tenants, partners and visitors – beyond just numbers?

Finance may be associated with numbers, but its real role is to support the people and partnerships that make the malls vibrant. By helping ensure resources are allocated effectively, finance enables investment in better facilities, services, and initiatives that enhance the visitor experience and support tenants in growing their businesses.

It also plays an important role in building strong, transparent relationships with partners and tenants by supporting sustainable decisions and long-term planning. Ultimately, good financial management helps create an environment where businesses can thrive and visitors return.

“Good financial management helps create an environment where businesses can thrive and visitors enjoy coming back.”

International Women’s Day celebrates progress and leadership. What has helped you most in building confidence and credibility in your career?

Building confidence and credibility has been a journey of hard work, consistency and investing in the people around me. Delivering results reliably helps earn trust, but supporting colleagues and partners along the way strengthens relationships and impact.

I’ve learned that for women especially, credibility isn’t just about expertise, it’s also about showing up, speaking up and fostering trust. Focusing on both performance and people has been essential in growing as a leader and navigating challenges with confidence.

Have there been any women mentors or role models who influenced your professional journey?

Coming from a male-dominated industry, having a woman mentor early in my career made a big difference. My partner at the audit firm had an inspiring career path, and working with her showed me how women can navigate challenges and grow in leadership roles.

Her example gave me confidence and practical insight, and reminded me how valuable it is to have role models and mentors along the way.

What advice would you give to young women entering finance or the property industry today?

Focus on building both competence and confidence. Work hard, be curious and do not be afraid to ask questions; learning comes from both successes and mistakes.

Equally important is building trust and relationships. Invest in the people around you, collaborate and seek mentors who can guide and challenge you. Finally, remember that your perspective is valuable. Speak up, take opportunities and trust yourself to make an impact.

What motivates you most in your work day-to-day?

Seeing tangible results and knowing that the work I do adds real value to something bigger. There is a particular satisfaction in turning ideas and plans into outcomes that benefit the team, the tenants and the visitors. It is that sense of making a meaningful impact as part of something larger than yourself that keeps me engaged and inspired every day.

When you’re not working with numbers, what helps you recharge and stay balanced?

I like to start my day with exercise at the gym. It helps me clear my mind and energise for the day ahead. I also value time with friends and family, which helps me stay grounded and keep perspective.

If you could describe your leadership style in three words, what would they be?

Team player. Lead by example. Resilient.

What does success look like to you, both professionally and personally?

Professionally, success is about making a meaningful impact, helping my team, tenants and partners thrive, and seeing the results of our collective efforts. Personally, success means maintaining balance, nurturing relationships and having the energy and perspective to enjoy life outside of work.

Ultimately, it is about growth, contribution and fulfilment in both spheres.

Thelma’s perspective reflects the kind of leadership that combines technical strength with empathy, consistency and purpose. As Atterbury Europe marks International Women’s Day, her story is a reminder that meaningful leadership is not only about expertise, but also about trust, contribution and the confidence to grow into new opportunities. Her recent appointment at Mall of Cyprus and Mall of Engomi is an exciting next step in that journey.