Amy Shields - Director at Smart Compliance and former agent with 16 years' experience - offers a rare and candid look at what it really takes to thrive in today's lettings and proptech space. From compliance headaches to cultural transformation, she covers the topics that matter most to modern estate and letting agents.
Why Great Suppliers Start as Great Agents
Amy's journey from agency floor to boardroom isn't unique - but what she took from that journey is. Her time at Romans and Davis Tate gave her a front-line understanding of how agents operate, what frustrates them, and what solutions they actually need.
As Kristjan said: "You've got the secret sauce. You understand what agents get frustrated with and what's going to be a roadblock."
Key takeaway: Suppliers with agency experience are uniquely positioned to deliver tech and services that actually work. If you're evaluating partners, look for those with real-world insight - not just pitch decks.
Compliance - Tech Helps, But Humans Still Matter
With the Renters Rights Bill on the horizon and an ever-tightening regulatory landscape, AML compliance is becoming mission-critical.
Amy revealed that nearly 48% of compliance packs require human intervention - despite tech automations. That includes handling:
- Probate sales
- Powers of attorney
- Sanctions flags
- Mismatched name documentation (e.g. post-marriage)
The myth of a 100% tech-driven AML solution? Just that - a myth.
And importantly, the agent remains legally liable. That means knowing exactly what your AML partner is (and isn't) covering.
"Cheap doesn't mean good value. Expensive doesn't mean poor value. Understand what you're paying for." - Amy Shields
Culture is the Differentiator - Not Just Tech
Amy also shares her story of coming out as gay during her early years in agency, the power of support networks, and why emotional intelligence is now a leadership essential.
She also discusses her role in Women in Estate Agency (WIEA) - the movement reshaping what estate agency looks, feels and sounds like. Their conferences are known for being raw, real and refreshingly different.
No fluff. No vanity panels. Just powerful conversations.
Tickets for the 2026 WIEA Conference go on sale 26th September 2025.
Date for the event: 5th March 2026 at the Pull.
