Name: Kim Brennan
Title: Chief Operating Officer for the New York/Tri-State Region
Company Name: Colliers International
Follow my company on Twitter @ColliersIntl and @Colliers_NYC
What year did you start your career in commercial real estate: 1991
Real Estate Associations/Organizations: NAIOP, CREW - Commercial Real Estate Women
What recent project or transaction are you most proud of?
I am thrilled whenever we win projects for new clients, but what makes me most proud is when our teams collaborate on projects and win them together. Colliers has done a terrific job with this concept.
What recent honor, achievement or recognition has meant the most to you and why?
Being named COO of Colliers International's New York/Tri-State Region was, of course, the most meaningful achievement to me this year.
but if I don't count that, then it was being named one of the "Best 50 Women in Business" by NJBIZ.
Who or what has been the strongest influence on your career and why?
I have had several terrific mentors over the years, but the most influential mentor has been Joseph Harbert, president of Colliers International's Eastern Region. Joe entrusted me with my first managerial role in 1993 and has continued to mentor me ever since, providing advice and guidance without micromanaging. Even when we were not at the same firm, he played an instrumental role in my business career. Fortunately, we are working on the same team again.
What is the first thing you do when you arrive in the office in the morning?
I have my third cup of coffee and go through emails.
What time management strategies do you find to be the most effective for you?
In this industry, every day is comparable to drinking from a fire hose so if I don't write out my task list and leave it on my desk, it doesn't get done.
What is the best advice you have received and who was it from?
Edward S. Gordon, a legend in the NYC real estate industry, once told me: "Know what you are not, and concentrate on what you are good at. Delegate tasks to those who excel at completing them and concentrate on what you can make a difference in."
List 3 women that you would like to have drinks / dinner with and where would you go?
Marissa Mayer; president and CEO of Yahoo; Tina Fey, actress and Stevie Nicks, singer. I'd have dinner with them at any venue in N.Y.C., they all are great.
What is your favorite quote?
"Go big or go home."
What did you want to be when you grew up?
A waitress, then a singer.
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