November/December 2022 | Page 45

WHO ' S WHO 2023

BRENDA MARTINEZ

REGIONAL PROPERTY MANAGER Cushman & Wakefield

2002

BEGAN WORKING IN MULTIFAMILY

1,800

UNITS I OVERSEE

32 EMPLOYEES I OVERSEE

5 %

TIME SPENT WORKING FROM HOME
◆ PIVOTAL MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER ?
Being laid off in 2019 . This experience forced me to change my thinking on both my worth and the absolutely vital need to have both a physical , emotional and mental work life balance . I took a few months off to focus on myself and my family and it changed the way that I look at what I would like in a leader and how I need to be a more compassionate leader .
◆ FIRST INDUSTRY JOB ?
I started as a leasing consultant with Omni Properties at Peakview at T-Bone Ranch in Greeley in about 2002 . My regional manager was pivotal in supporting my diligent work ethic and trusted my skills enough to promote me within a year to community manager . Joe Saunders has made a great impact on my life as well as many others in his years in the business .
◆ WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE ABOUT THE MULTIFAMILY INDUSTRY ?
We need to figure out how to avoid burnout in this industry . It used to only affect senior leadership and now has trickled down to all levels which needs to be a wake up call to companies at large .
◆ TV SHOW BEST DESCRIBES YOUR MANAGEMENT STYLE ?
Ted Lasso . I am not capable of giving up when faced with tough situations or decisions . I am also perfectly flawed and understand that everyone has life challenges and the best we can do as leaders is to support and coach through as best we can . It is critical that we encourage team members to learn , and most importantly , grow from mistakes made , but also to be cognizant when someone is just not coachable .
◆ MOST IMPACTFUL PERSON IN YOUR CAREER ?
Without hesitation , my time under the leadership of Janelle French while at Fairfield Residential . Her leadership style still influences how I lead with genuine empathy and respect .
◆ FAVORITE TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITY ?
Any party with a theme ! Our 80 ’ s themed team picnic with a former company was nothing short of epic ! Being together in person and able to connect via silliness is the best medicine for stress !
◆ YOUR IDEAL LONG WEEKEND ?
Spending time in our family cabin in Red Feather Lakes . I am forced to disconnect with electronics so I can better connect with my family and friends in an absolutely perfect setting .