LinkedIn: Dr. Sobha Rani FRICS | LinkedIn
1. About Dr. Sobha Rani.
Dr. Sobha is a real estate and construction industry leader, entrepreneur and arbitrator with more than two decades of experience across cost management, project advisory and digital construction. As Founder of Veadik Consulting Solutions and Esttareal, she has led the development and growth of both organisations across commercial advisory and digital construction.
With a Doctorate in Strategic Management, her research focused on the digitalisation of construction cost management and the role of technology in strengthening commercial decision making and project performance. Actively engaged with RICS for more than 15 years, she currently serves on the RICS South Asia Regional Advisory Board, contributing to the development of the profession across the region.
2. What skill do you value the most as your career has developed, and how have you built those skills?
Strategic adaptability has been one of the skills I have valued most throughout my career. I have built it through continuous learning, taking on new challenges and extending my experience beyond my original discipline. My association with RICS has shaped my perspective, particularly through its emphasis on standards, ethics and engagement with the wider professional community. This foundation has enabled me to respond to change, explore new areas of practice and broaden my capabilities as the built environment continues to evolve.
3. How do you stay motivated and inspired in a profession that is always evolving?
My greatest professional motivation comes from contributing to our clients’ success through strong partnerships, professional integrity and a shared sense of purpose. I believe the value of professional service extends beyond a defined scope and it comes from understanding what matters, building teams that take ownership and creating confidence through the way we work. What continues to inspire me is the opportunity to build lasting relationships and consistently create value beyond expectations.
4. What advice would you have for women who are looking to move into the profession?
My advice to women entering the profession is to build credibility through strong professional knowledge, integrity and consistency. Take on responsibilities that broaden your perspective, remain open to opportunities beyond traditional career paths and have the confidence to make decisions and lead.
Most importantly, define your own future and never let others set the limits of your ambition.
5. What is one of the proudest moments of your career?
One of my proudest achievements has been building Veadik and Esttareal with the strength and independence to progress beyond their founder. What is particularly meaningful to me is creating a culture where leaders develop future leaders who carry forward the principles of trust, integrity and responsibility. Knowing that these principles can continue to shape the future direction of both businesses gives this achievement a deeper sense of purpose.
6. What encouragement would you give to students and the younger generation to get them interested in a career in surveying/the built environment?
I would encourage students and young professionals to see surveying as a diverse and evolving profession, offering career pathways across commercial management, property, infrastructure, technology and sustainability, with opportunities to influence how the built environment is planned, delivered and managed.
It is also an exciting time to enter the profession. Digitalisation, data and sustainability are transforming how the built environment is planned, delivered and managed, creating new roles and opportunities that extend well beyond traditional areas of practice. The next generation will have the opportunity to bring new perspectives and contribute to this transformation.
My advice is to build strong foundations in your chosen discipline, remain curious and develop the confidence to explore where the profession can take you. It is a profession that offers continuous opportunities to broaden your expertise, take on greater responsibility and contribute meaningfully to the future of the built environment.