Orieta Ruda-Price

Interim Head of Residential Operations

What do you enjoy most about working in student accommodation?

What I enjoy most about working in student accommodation is the opportunity to make a positive impact on students' lives during such a crucial time. For many, it’s their first experience living away from home, and being part of a team that helps create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment is really rewarding. I also love the variety—no two days are ever the same. It keeps the role dynamic, people-focused, and deeply fulfilling.

Can you provide details about a specific student accommodation project that you’ve been involved in, that you’re really proud of?

One of the projects I’m most proud of was supporting the mobilisation and launch of a brand-new student accommodation building from the ground up. I was involved from the early pre-opening stages, which meant helping shape everything from operational procedures and handover checklists to building tours and preparing for student arrivals.

A big part of my role was leading the recruitment and onboarding of an entirely new team. We had to build a strong team culture from day one, so I focused on hiring not just for skills but for values—people who were genuinely student-focused, adaptable, and collaborative.

Despite the tight timelines and inevitable last-minute challenges, we successfully opened on schedule, welcomed over 900 students, and received positive feedback from residents in the first few weeks. That project taught me a great deal about leadership under pressure, cross-functional coordination, and the importance of solid team foundations. It was incredibly rewarding to see everything come together and to watch the team grow in confidence as they found their rhythm.

What does ASRA mean to you? 

Being part of ASRA means having access to shared knowledge, best practices, and support from people who understand the unique challenges of the sector. ASRA helps raise the bar for what we can deliver for students. It’s also a reminder that we’re not working in isolation—our work has a wider impact, and we’re stronger when we learn from each other.

What is your best ASRA memory?

My best ASRA memory is attending my first ASRA Conference. Walking into a space full of like-minded professionals who share the same goal of improving student living was inspiring.

Thoughts on the future of accommodation?

The possibilities of accommodation, especially in the student sector, are both exciting and challenging. One key trend I see is the growing demand for flexible, tech-enabled living spaces. Students are looking for more than just a place to sleep - they want communities that support their wellbeing, social lives, and academic goals. That means emphasis on mental health support, communal areas, sustainable living, and reliable digital infrastructure. I’m particularly looking forward to how design and technology will reshape the student experience - smart buildings, app-based services, more inclusive design, and potentially even co-living models that better reflect the modern needs of students. The sector has a real chance to lead in creating more human-centred, future-ready living environments. The challenge will be balancing rising expectations with affordability and accessibility.