What made you choose a career in the commercial real estate industry? Did you have a specific career plan?

I have a B.A. in business administration, specializing in accounting, from HEC Montreal. Following my university studies I began my career in 2009 as a financial analyst in the media industry. While it was an interesting sector in many respects, I soon became aware that it wasn't really for me. I've always been captivated by real estate in general and institutional and commercial real estate in particular, so I jumped into the field in 2011. I didn't have a specific career plan, but I'm now more than convinced that this is where I belong. I plan to pursue my career in this industry, because real estate is a sector that suits me, a milieu with concrete issues and challenges. It's a sector where an individual can have a tangible impact, which I find very gratifying. 

What was your first job? Was it a position you applied for?

I started my career with Ivanhoe Cambridge and I'm still there today. It's such a big organization that there's no end to challenges and opportunities for someone who wants to advance professionally. I was initially recruited as a property coordinator at Montreal Trust Place. There was a restructuring in 2016, a centralization of the Eaton Centre, Complexe Les Ailes, Montreal Trust Place and 1500 Robert Bourassa. That meant that I was still a real property coordinator, but now part of a single large management team. I benefited from the support of an incredible team, and learned quite a lot in that position. I was well positioned to face new challenges, notably the opening of Maison Manuvie.

Tell us about your current position.

I've been working as a property manager since February 2017, specializing in client relations at Maison Manuvie. It’s an adventure that began ten months before the official inauguration. Since the building was still under construction, we organized an escalating schedule such that the building became operational one step at a time. It was a colossal task, but very stimulating. To cite but a few examples, we had to define policies and procedures, purchase equipment, select various suppliers, negotiate their contracts and oversee their integration into building operations. We also had to welcome the first few tenants and ensure the harmonious integration of their activities, while coordinating everything with the teams of contractors still completing the construction of the building. There were many problems to solve. It was a huge but stimulating challenge.

Describe a typical day.

There is no typical day in this field, and that's one of the aspects of my work that I like the most. Every day has its share of challenges and the unexpected; no two days are alike. Imagine a 500,000 square-foot house… something always needs to be done!

What do you like most about your work? What are the biggest challenges?

I like the wide variety of everyday challenges. It keeps me on my toes. I'm constantly seeking the best solution for my colleagues and our clients. My job is to listen, to be open-minded and to solve problems. I learn something new every day, and that is very stimulating. It's a matter of managing the unexpected and the unforeseen, which means managing your time well. Another challenge in my position is that I aim to provide maximum service, while scrupulously staying within budgets.

What are you most proud of? What's your greatest accomplishment so far?

Without question, Maison Manuvie. It was a rare opportunity in my career, organizing a new building from the bottom up – everything needed to be done from scratch. We were trailblazers developing a prototype, establishing the rules of the game for a specific built environment. It was a great success, an accomplishment I'm very proud of. I wish everyone could experience such an opportunity.

What is your vision of real estate management in the future?

Client relations are my main focus, and take precedence over the technical aspects of buildings. That is because of the growing importance of the client experience, a concept much talked about but truer than ever. The world of work is undergoing major transformations, and the occupants of a building (where they spend a lot of time) want an environment that offers the maximum at the professional and personal levels, and also as regards human relations. The quality of the food on offer, common areas and the services and client events that are available are some of the many things occupants appreciate, aspects that enhance the client experience. We live in an era of workplace wellness, and companies using these business environments must take that into account when considering the management and revitalization of their buildings.

What are the challenges and opportunities facing the property management industry?

Reconciling all of that with the financial reality of the organization. One side asks for more and the other side wants to offer more, but all that comes at a price. The challenge is reaching an equilibrium in order to remain competitive in our market, something not so easily achieved because of the substantial investments involved. It is essential to have a long-term vision, to stay the course and promote the attractiveness of what we have to offer.

A WORD TO THE WISE

What do you think are the skills required to succeed in your area of expertise?

You must be a good listener. You must be open-minded so that you grasp the needs of the various parties. You must be resourceful, able to respond quickly to any given situation, with a tool kit of possible solutions close to hand. You must also be curious and interested in all aspects of the building. People say that versatility is a major requirement in property management, and it's true. You must understand all aspects, even those that aren't your responsibility, because they will influence your decisions and actions. Last but not least, tact and diplomacy go a long way. A building is an interconnected entity, and the more you understand the reality of all parties involved, the better the collaboration among all those concerned. 

What are the career perspectives in your sector?

They are excellent! The industry is on solid footing. I would say that since there are always buildings, there is always a place and a need for a dynamic up-and-coming generation to work in this sector. 

What recommendations would you make to someone embarking on a career in property management?

Jump right in! It's an extremely stimulating environment. Learn as much as you can from everyone you meet and make your own way. Develop your skill set and take advantage of opportunities, for there are many. It calls for energy and a sincere desire to develop a comprehensive vision. That is how you will gradually make your way to the top.