Marianne O’Leary
Vice President Operations, SmartCentres REIT
Sector: Private Sector
Discipline: Portfolio Management
Year: 2014
Magic Moment: Sometimes advancing our careers is done by taking on a challenge that is beyond our experience and current knowledge. Early in my career I lobbied the CEO to internalize property management and when asked who will run it, I replied I will – with no experience other than the knowledge that I was willing to learn and run the risk of losing my job if I failed.
Key Influence: I have never had a mentor or influencer and I made mistakes along the way that might have been avoided and didn’t take risks that might have been manageable. So now I seek out people to help mentor because it can propel a career.
Next Big Challenge As An Industry: I think the biggest challenge in our industry is attracting and keeping great talent. We need to partner more with universities and introduce students to the numerous opportunities.
Secret Talent: I am an amateur dog trainer.
On Championing Others… I spend time with a number of individuals helping them articulate their talents and helping them with strategy for career advancement.
One word that captures you: Tenacious