We recently caught up with Anna Skigin, Co-Founder and CEO of Frank Porter, the premier property management service for short-term rentals across Dubai.
Why did you start Frank Porter?
We started Frank Porter in 2017, after noticing that this type of service was lacking in Dubai. It seemed people owned fantastic real estate, but the only options available to them were to either let their properties out long-term or sell them. The terms ‘short-term’ or ‘Airbnb Dubai’ were not very common at all at the time, unlike in Europe. There was a clear gap in the market, that we capitalized on.
What is the most surprising challenge that you’ve faced and how did you overcome it?
Recruitment. Recruitment. Recruitment! We didn’t expect to run into such difficulties here, considering how international Dubai is – issues like people coming late to interviews, coming without any knowledge of the company, or not showing up on the first day of work. It was shocking at the beginning. Since then, we have implemented a tougher screening process, such as multiple phone interviews, tests, and other methods to minimize the problem.
What is that one thing in your business that you are really proud of?
We are very proud of Frank Porter’s organic growth and the development of the brand. We are more than 130 employees now, and we view the team as a Frank Porter family.
If you could give one piece of advice to your fellow entrepreneurs, what would it be?
Patience. Don’t sacrifice the foundation/core of your business running after growth. It’s not sustainable.
What’s next for Frank Porter?
The next step is expansion. We are already in Abu Dhabi, and plan to move to other Emirates as well as other GCC countries soon.
What do you like to get up to outside of work?
Trying to stay active – whether yoga, tennis or golf. When the weather is nice – enjoying the city’s amazing pools and beaches.
What are you currently reading/watching?
I just started reading The Silk Roads, by Peter Frankopan and am currently watching the Halo series.
Which entrepreneur do you most admire and why?
There is not one entrepreneur that I would mention – but in general I admire those that give back to the people who got them where they are. For example, in cases of an IPO I respect the entrepreneurs that share the wealth with the employees who were with them at the beginning. It’s rare, and nice to see.
Where’s your favourite place to eat?
My house.
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