What it’s like to head a regional office at the age of 26
A year has passed and I am about to turn 27 next week. However, this birthday is vastly different from my previous one. Maybe it’s because I am also approaching my 1 year work anniversary in my current job. I start to ponder about how quickly the past year flew by — both sweet and bitter.
What was the past year like?
2020 was the year of the COVID-19 outbreak and the future seemed so uncertain. It was also the year I returned to Malaysia after years of residing overseas. Returning home during this time was not ideal as the job market was very competitive due to the pandemic. Fortunately, I was offered a job by a London estate agency, JOHNS&CO to pioneer and grow their regional office in Malaysia. The opening of the Kuala Lumpur office represents the 4th office in Asia, complementing Singapore, Shanghai and Hong Kong. This was an opportunity I could not afford to say “no”. My appointment into this role serves as an important bridge between London and Asia by supporting Malaysia-based clients with their property needs as well as achieving the company’s goal to expand their network internationally. Achievable but ambitious, so I felt like an imposter. It was common for me to feel excited yet nervous and there were days I felt certain but also questioned my ability to carry out this role effectively.
How am I now?
1 year into this role, I can confidently say that I am competent. Firstly, I have learned to manage client expectations as it is imperative for me to empathise and understand them since they are overseas landlords. Secondly, I have found new business development ideas to expand the Malaysia office using digital and traditional channels while managing all operational tasks by myself. Thirdly, I was able to overcome my knowledge gap in the midst of COVID-19 although I had no prior knowledge of the UK property market and was unable to attend my company training due to travel restrictions. I was, however, very determined to learn so I used Google street view and leveraged my colleagues who are living in London to my advantage. Additionally, I have gained a stronger cultural understanding of people as I work with colleagues all around the world. Lastly, working alone was something I had to learn to adapt to. I am now able to make decisions independently and quickly when I face any work challenges.
How did it all start?
I started my career in real estate as my interest was developed from:-
- Books. Since young, I have studied the economic benefits of investing as a hedge against inflation and being financially independent.
- Work experience. I had the chance to work in property development with EcoWorld Australia and commercial property with Cushman & Wakefield after graduating from the University of Melbourne. These exposures have opened many doors to other areas in real estate.
- The real need for housing. Real estate is one of the most important sectors in the economy. It is one of the major contributions to a country’s GDP because it is a provision for old age and protection against inflation.
What do I feel about the future?
My work exposure to the global real estate market has enabled me to understand the dynamics of real estate more holistically. I believe real estate will remain relevant, and even more so in the future. I invite anyone who is looking into real estate ownership or transitioning to real estate to join me on this exciting journey.
