Membership Spotlight: Marie-France Venneri

Friday, Aug 2, 2024

Marie-France Venneri, Principal, AME Group

What drew you to the real estate industry initially, and how has your career progressed since you started?

I have always had an affinity for physics and numbers, so pursuing a career as a mechanical engineer was a natural choice for me. I drew inspiration from my father, who was also in the construction industry, which sparked my interest in real estate. Early in my career, I realized that problem-solving and collaborating with various stakeholders were aspects of the job that I found incredibly rewarding. Over time, I honed my people skills, which I discovered to be paramount in maintaining my motivation and driving my career forward. My journey has been one of continuous learning and growth, evolving from a technical role to a leadership position where I can influence and inspire others within the industry.

As an active member of CREW Vancouver, what aspects of the organization have had the most positive impact on your career, and why?

The world of engineering is relatively small, and the community of women in engineering is even smaller. CREW Vancouver offers unique networking opportunities that allow me to connect with like-minded professionals who appreciate each other’s individuality. This sense of community has been instrumental in my career, providing support, inspiration, and opportunities for collaboration that have helped me grow both personally and professionally. I have also found the panel discussions and speaker sessions organized by CREW to be incredibly impactful. These events provide invaluable perspectives from industry leaders and peers, which have broadened my understanding and approach to various challenges in the real estate and construction sectors.

What’s your favorite productivity hack or office ritual that helps you get through the day?

My favorite productivity hack is maintaining a handwritten agenda. Each day, I copy all the meetings from my Outlook calendar into my agenda, using blue or black ink to write down pending tasks, then ticking them off in red once they are completed or scratching them off in blue or black if they are no longer relevant. This ritual not only helps me stay organized but also gives me a sense of accomplishment as I see my progress throughout the day. I have also found integrating my personal life into the agenda to be helpful in ensuring a balanced approach to managing both work and personal commitments. This system keeps me focused and motivated, helping me navigate through my day efficiently.

What has been the most rewarding project or achievement in your career, and why does it stand out to you?

Selecting the most rewarding project is challenging because each one has brought its own unique set of problem-solving and results. However, what stands out to me the most is witnessing the growth and development of my colleagues. As I have advanced in my career, I have seen others step into roles I previously held, and it has been incredibly fulfilling to watch them grow and succeed. Real estate is truly a peoples’ industry, and seeing the people I have worked with evolve and thrive in their positions highlights the collaborative and supportive environment we foster. This shared growth and the relationships built along the way make my career especially rewarding. It's not just about individual achievements, but about growing together as a community and contributing to each other’s success.

What advice would you give to other aspiring women in real estate who are looking to establish themselves professionally and make meaningful connections within the industry?

My advice to aspiring women in real estate is to actively join industry organizations, such as CREW, right at the beginning of your career. However, don’t just join – if you can, participate on a board. Serving on a board provides invaluable experience in running meetings, understanding financial statements, and practicing public speaking. These skills are crucial for professional development.

Additionally, being actively involved allows people to get to know you and recognize your capabilities, which can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities. It is also a fantastic learning environment where you can ask questions and engage in discussions in a supportive setting. These experiences not only enhance your skill set but also build your confidence and reputation within the industry. Networking and continuous learning are key to establishing yourself and achieving long-term success.