Today’s Notable Young Professional is Colliers International Marketing Manager Rachel Roenspies, whose work is some of the most respected in the Canadian real estate industry. We caught up with her to find out what inspires her career and what advice she would share with other young professionals…
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WORK
Describe what you do in less than 140 characters. Go.
I am the Marketing Manager in GTA for Colliers International, Canada’s #1 commercial real estate services company.
What was the inspiration for your career route?
I’ve always been interested in real estate. Growing up, I would nag my parents to buy me floorplan magazines when other kids were asking for Archie comics and Tiger Beat. My first job out of school was leasing up a high-end rental building and I felt like I had hit the jackpot because it didn’t feel like work.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career so far?
It’s twofold: contributing to award winning projects recognized by the Greater Toronto Homebuilders Association (BILD) and being invited to getting a Harvard education through my current position.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years, 10 years, 20 years?
If my whole Freedom 35 doesn’t pan out, I see myself in a position that motivates, is rewarding, and is in the real estate industry.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Follow your bliss. Put your hand up and ask for things you want because no one is going to give it to you.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is it (or they) important to you?
I support Eva’s Initiatives, a charity that supports homeless youth. I donate a few hours a month to coordinate volunteers for their events.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
The most challenging thing has been finding good work doing what you love. Building a network of like-minded individuals doesn’t happen overnight, but when that network comes together it will really help you be successful in what you want to do and help you build your career path.
What does the word notable mean to you?
Stand-out and remarkable.
PLAY
Where is your favourite place to wine/dine in your city and why?
I like to explore new places and there are some favorites for sure – Rose and Sons throws down a great breakfast and they are really close to home. Banjara’s Bloor outpost for Indian, and Terroni is always a good idea.
What’s the most visited website on your Internet browser? The most played song on your phone?
Internet browser: Globe and Mail. Most played song: Oh, The Boss is Coming by the Arkells.
Who’s one person you think everyone should be following on social media?
Cookie + Kate for recipes and whole food inspiration. Her recipes guarantee a new dish for your rotation.
What’s your favourite country to visit and why? And what’s the next one you plan on travelling to?
I’d love to eat and drink my way across Italy, then tour around Greece.
What’s your guiltiest pleasure?
Calling up room service in a robe while staying at a high-end hotel.
What’s something you wish you didn’t spend so much money on? What’s something you wish you spent more on?
I wish I didn’t spend so much on green beauty products and I wish I spent more on travelling.
And finally, what does success look like to you? Work, play, or otherwise…
Being happy doing what you do, day-in and day-out.
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