10 in 10: Karen Winspear

Karen Winspear, Property Manager for Windsor House in Harrogate, is the latest regional business professional in the hot seat as we give her just 10 minutes to answer our 10 burning questions.

What does a typical working day for you involve?

Anything and everything! Especially at the moment as we reach the end of our refurbishment project – kitchen design, furniture building and pulling together the final finishing touches, all of which add a very exciting twist to my usual day of lettings and lease renewals.

What makes your company special?

I love what we have created at Windsor House, it’s a wonderful community. Many of our tenants joined us a start up businesses and have then gone on to grow and therefore move around within the building as they have needed more space. I love helping tenants do this, it’s a special part of the job. I can’t wait to see them using the new collaborative work and meeting space, it’s going to be the perfect place for them to strike up new business opportunities between them.

Do you have any business rules that you swear by

Be honest, friendly and kind. Rules I swear by at home as well as work!

Do you dress up or down for work

I like to dress casual smart for work and have a definite work wardrobe

What piece of advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Work as hard as you can and go travelling – you will only understand why to both of these when you’re older…

What’s your favourite Yorkshire venue for an event or team away day?

Wetherby Races – such a fun day out with a fantastic atmosphere – not only a great business day out but also a great family day out. Particularly on Boxing Day.

How do you prefer to travel for business?

I don’t need to, I’m lucky enough to live and work in Harrogate

What’s your favourite place in Yorkshire to relax?

I love a walk or a run around The Stray, perfect at any time of the year but particularly in the winter with the lights on the trees; it’s a great way to unwind at the end of a busy day

Where is your favourite place to eat in Yorkshire, and what dish do you recommend?

Tricky. A Lamb Henry at William & Victoria or a Curd Tart at Betty’s.

What do you miss most about Yorkshire when you’re away?

Yorkshire Tea and I’m proud that my kids also can tell when their tea is not Yorkshire!