The team at Assemble are fortunate to work with many talented people in the Property, Infrastructure and Construction sectors. We take our role as specialist recruiters seriously and strive to add value to the industry wherever we can. That’s why we’ve taken the time to sit down with some of the top professionals in these industries to ask them about their professional journeys and share their career advice with you.
This week we talked to Joel Lindsey, Head of Funds Management at Centuria NZ, here’s what he had to say.
1.What do you love about your job/profession?
Centuria is one of the largest property investment managers in Australasia with over A$20bn AUM. I lead the local team responsible for managing our NZ investment funds, acquiring, developing and selling property. I enjoy working for an active investment manager - we’re always on the lookout for great investment opportunities. I’m privileged to work with a talented team and we cover all property sectors nationwide, so there’s plenty of day-to-day variety in what we do. I really enjoy collaborating with other associated professions, such as structuring deals and funds with lawyers or working with technical consultants and contractors on a major development.
2.Are you in the role you thought you would be in when you started your career?
Yes, I wanted to get into investment when I was studying at University. At the time I thought the property funds management profession was the way to go, and property appealed to me due to the tangible nature of the investments. The local funds management industry has grown significantly since I started my career in the late 1990’s, with a lot more firms to work for now than there were back then. I have been very fortunate to have had some great mentors through my career and I think their support and guidance helped keep me on the property funds management pathway.
3.What advice would you give to those entering the profession if you knew what you know now?
Make sure you do something that interests you, throw yourself into it and absorb as much as you can from those around you. Try to distinguish yourself from others by taking the initiative, whether it be accepting challenges or finding new opportunities. Sometimes starting off in a smaller firm is better than the bigger firms if you get to be involved in a wider range of activities. Put yourself out there and build your network from the outset, whether it be having informal catchups with industry peers or attending the various property industry functions. Don’t get stuck in a rut - if you’re not being challenged then ask your employer if there is more you can do. For personal development and professional experience, I would really encourage people early in their property careers to travel abroad and work in one of the major international capital markets.
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