Sponsor Spotlight: Colliers
Friday, Jun 7, 2024
We're running a series to highlight and learn more about our CREW Vancouver Sponsors. We asked them a few questions so we can get to know them better.
We'd like to thank one of our Platinum Sponsors, Colliers.
What core values does your company prioritize, and how do these values align with the mission and goals of our women's network?
Our global strategy, Elevate the Built Environment, is focused on reaching key milestones against the framework’s three pillars: environment, inclusiveness, and health and well-being. Elevating Inclusiveness means increasing diversity, equity and inclusion within our operations and across our procurement practices to foster inclusivity in our offices and the communities we engage with. Like CREW, talent development and mentorship are at the core of elevating inclusiveness at Colliers. We are proud to sponsor a network that supports the growth of women in CRE; enriching our industry and accelerating our collective success.
In what ways does your company support the advancement and empowerment of women in the commercial real estate industry?
In 2021, Colliers set a global goal to have 40% female employees overall and in management roles by 2025. In Canada, as of January 2024, we have surpassed this goal, with women accounting for nearly 43.2% of our workforce. Women also hold 43% of our management roles, which exceeds the North America real estate sector’s 30% benchmark (source: REALPAC 2023 ESG Report). Our new commitment in Canada is to achieve a minimum of 45% representation of women overall and in manager+ roles by 2030.
Gender parity is a focus of our community partnerships as well. We are a member of Catalyst, a nonprofit group committed to accelerating progress for women through workplace inclusion. In addition, as a Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Network partner, we are committed to achieving gender equity and diversity in commercial real estate. In 2021, our Canadian President & CEO, Brian Rosen, signed the CREW Commercial Real Estate Pledge for Action to advocate for gender parity in all of Colliers’ North American workplaces.
Could you share a story or example of a woman in your company who has benefited from her involvement with CREW Vancouver, and how has this experience contributed to her professional growth and development within the commercial real estate industry?
Jennifer Darling is a Senior Associate - Investment with Colliers Canada. Based in Vancouver, BC, Jennifer joined Colliers in 2015 and has been involved in the sale of over $400M of real estate assets since 2016. Jennifer has developed significant experience in the sale and marketing of development land and investment properties, including a deep understanding of the court approved sale process, and she is a sought-after media spokesperson on this complex process. In 2018, she was recognized as Colliers Vancouver Rookie of the Year and was one of Colliers Top 10 Women Advisors in Canada in 2023.
She had the following to say about her involvement with CREW Vancouver:
“I am fortunate to have met many incredible people through my involvement with CREW Vancouver both as an attendee and volunteer at events. Many of the women, and men, that I have had the pleasure of getting to know over the years have become good friends in addition to being valued colleagues and professionals.
My favourite event, as both an attendee and as a volunteer, is the annual CREW Golf Tournament. This event provides an incredible opportunity to connect with clients, colleagues and new connections in the industry in a fun and relaxed environment.”