Debbie Baxter
Vice President & National Leader Corporate Real Estate Advisory, Deloitte
Sector: Private Sector
Year: 2017
Magic Moment: I was extremely proud to be named to the WXN Top 100 Most Powerful Women list in 2013 in the Trailblazer category. At the gala, where I met the other winners, I had an heavy dose of “imposter” syndrome. What was I doing here with such accomplished women? However, I found that most winners were feeling the same way. Such awards are a wonderful way to recognize and empower women.
Key Influence: Michel Lozeau, Executive Coach
Key Lesson: Keep negative emotion out of the workplace. Passion is great. Anger & jealousy will not help you succeed
Next Big Challenge As An Industry: Climate change is the biggest challenge of our generation. The impact on carbon from the built environment is significant. We need to be leveraging technology NOW to reduce this impact and prepare for the future. Intelligent Building tech and Internet of Everything solutions will be key to advancing solutions in this area.
On Championing Others… I have learned to hire mostly for attitude and train for skill. This creates a team of motivated individuals that can benefit from mentoring and coaching. Exposing my teams and my mentorees to opportunities for growth & development provides a platform for them to shine!
One word that captures you: Innovative
Secret Talent: Empathy. The most under rated skill in the business world.