International Women's Day - Meet Katie Hedgecox

A bit of background

Hi! I’m Katie – the property manager for Bicester Living, where I manage shared homes for working professionals. My role focuses on making sure homes run smoothly, tenants feel supported, and landlords have clear systems in place that allow their properties and businesses to thrive.

My journey into property started over 12 years ago when my parents joined Platinum Property Partners. From there, I became involved in the business through interior design, helping to create spaces that were not just functional, but genuinely nice places to live. A few years ago, the opportunity came up to work directly in managing HMOs, and it felt like a natural progression combining people, property, systems, and design.

Today, I work very closely with my partner, Dan, and my sister also works with us two days a week, which makes it very much a family business. There’s something special about building something together. While it comes with its own challenges, it also brings a huge amount of trust, shared understanding, and pride.

Inspiration & motivation

I draw a lot of inspiration from the people I’m surrounded by. Being part of the Platinum Property Partners network means I’m constantly learning from driven, forward-thinking property professionals who are open about sharing ideas and experiences. That environment has pushed me to think bigger, work smarter, and stay open to growth.

I’m also inspired by other women in property who are doing things well and doing them their own way. One example is my friend Becky at RHouse, who also manages Snug Shared Living. We regularly meet up to talk through business challenges, systems, and future plans, and those conversations are invaluable. Having people around you who genuinely want to see you grow makes a huge difference.

One of my biggest inspirations, though, has always been my dad. Watching him put everything into building a business that allowed him time freedom – especially time with family – had a huge impact on me. I’ve worked in office roles and high-pressure industries before, where long hours and rigid structures made it difficult to maintain balance, and I quickly realised that wasn’t the life I wanted for myself.

I want to build a career and business that allow space for family, flexibility, and wellbeing alongside ambition. My dad has always been one of my biggest supporters, encouraging me to push myself, think differently, and see opportunities where others might see limitations. My mum has also played a huge role, particularly in reminding me that health and emotional wellbeing are just as important as professional success. That grounding influence has shaped how I approach both work and life.

There wasn’t one defining moment where I decided this was “the” path, but rather a growing sense that I was doing work that mattered – creating better homes and helping landlords run their businesses in a more organised, intentional way.

Challenges & growth

One of the biggest challenges in property management is the level of responsibility that comes with it. You’re dealing with people’s homes, their comfort, safety, and often their stress when things go wrong. Over time, I’ve learned that strong systems, clear communication, and staying calm under pressure are essential. You can’t prevent every issue, but you can be prepared.

I’ve also experienced self-doubt, especially when stepping into conversations where I felt less experienced. I’ve learned to work through that by reminding myself that confidence comes from doing, and that everyone is on their own path – mine doesn’t need to look the same as anyone else’s.

Success & achievements

The achievement I’m most proud of is building a successful business while also supporting other landlords along the way. I genuinely love helping others improve their systems, think differently about their properties, or explore new opportunities to grow their portfolios. I take real pride in the fact that landlords (many of whom are older and more experienced than me) often come to me for advice and guidance.

For me, success isn’t just about scale or numbers. It’s about consistency, trust, and sustainability. When I started, success meant proving myself. Now, it looks more like balance – doing work I enjoy, delivering high standards, and building something that lasts.

Leadership & values

The values that guide my work are honesty, organisation, and empathy. My working style is calm, practical, and people-focused. I believe good leadership is about clarity, follow-through, and creating systems that make life easier for everyone involved.

Advice & lessons learned

My advice to women starting out is not to wait until you feel “ready”. Start where you are, learn as you go, and don’t underestimate the value of experience gained through action. One lesson I wish I’d learned earlier is the importance of boundaries – they’re essential for long-term success.

Looking ahead…what’s next?

Looking ahead, I’m excited to keep refining how properties are managed and to continue helping landlords improve their businesses. My goal over the next few years is steady growth, stronger systems, and maintaining a healthy balance between work and life.

Personal insight…what makes me tick?

Outside of business, I love working on creative projects and embracing slower moments. I spend a lot of time walking and being outdoors – especially with my dog, Goose – which helps me reset and stay grounded. On tough days, I remind myself why I do this: because good homes genuinely make a difference to people’s lives.

A bit of fun to finish on…

One word to describe my journey so far: Intentional
Best advice I’ve ever received: Always know your ‘why’ 
Unusual hobby: Crafting
Early mornings or late nights? Early mornings

For more information, please contact Katie at Hedgehog Studios or Bicester Living