Marie Hunt: ‘My career as Executive Director at CBRE’

Ever wonder what it’s like to work at the world’s largest commercial property consultants? We recently spoke with Marie Hunt, last year’s IMAGE Management Professional of the Year, to find out what it takes. Marie is the executive director and head of research and consultancy at CBRE Ireland, a global real estate firm dating back to 1906.

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Her role requires an eye for detail, as well as a mind for numbers. She tells us, “A lot of people assume that I am an economist, but in actual fact, I am a chartered surveyor and valuer. I head up the research team at CBRE, where my primary role is collating and analysing data on trends and transactions in all sectors of the property market.”

It’s Marie’s job to provide potential occupiers and investors with information to help them to make informed property decisions. “My role involves a lot of reading, writing and presenting,” she explains.

What inspired you to get into business management? 

“I don’t think I ever had a particular plan,” she says, “but I worked really hard in every task assigned to me, and by default, I ended up in the position I am in. I firmly believe that you need to give 110% to every task assigned to you. Work hard and the rewards will follow.”

Have you ever had a mentor?

“I never had a formal mentor,” Marie tells us, “but I have a small number of people who have supported me in my career and are always available for a coffee and chat when I need some guidance. I am so grateful to have this support, and in turn, I have tried to make myself available to others who approach me for advice.

“Never compromise your reputation – it takes 20 years to build and five minutes to ruin.”

“A wise woman once told me to, ‘Bite off more than you can chew, then get busy chewing’. I sometimes curse her when I get overwhelmed by all the things I’m juggling at one time, but it was wise advice,” Marie says.

What motivates you?

“Making a difference and ensuring that I do the best job that I can do. Also, treating people with respect and giving something back.”

What are your thoughts on the frequently-asked-about ‘work-life balance’?

“I’m not the best advertisement for work-life balance, I’m afraid, as I work long hours and juggle lots of extracurricular activities, including my work with the To Children With Love charity,” Marie says.

“Be yourself. Be honest about your achievements and reach for the stars.”

“I think the best bit of advice is to have something for yourself and to make time in the week for yourself. For some people, this might involve going to a spa or going for a walk. For me, I love gardening. I find it very therapeutic and it allows me some mind space.”

What do you think are the key traits it takes to win Management Professional of the Year?

“Treat others as you would like to be treated, as the people you meet on the way up are the very same people you will meet on your way down. Never compromise your reputation – it takes 20 years to build and five minutes to ruin.”

Have you any tips for nominees in this year’s Management Professional category?

“Be yourself. Be honest about your achievements and reach for the stars.”

Awarding those who have what it takes

Nominations for the IMAGE Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2018 are now live. Will you nominate yourself, a friend or a colleague for one of the highly coveted titles? Simply fill in the nomination form before 5 pm on Friday, 12th October 2018 to be in with a chance to win.

On the evening of Monday 19th November, we will gather with Ireland’s most inspiring businesswomen for a luxurious gala dinner, during which we will recognise and celebrate their successes. We will reveal the winners in nine categories, plus the winner of the Lifetime Achievement award and the overall IMAGE Businesswoman of the Year 2018.

With only a limited time left to nominate, you’ll need to act fast. Good luck.