So, two tech experts sign up for a Property Council Academy course…
No, it’s not the start of a joke… This was actually the start of a rewarding learning experience for two Charter Hall technology leaders… and an experience that changed relationships across the business.
Federica Pastorino and Simba Nikurawu are the two professionals from Charter Hall’s technology team, who recently pursued a Diploma in Property Investment and Finance with the Property Council of Australia’s Academy.
As tech experts, it was a course and a field that wasn’t directly aligned with their expertise.
But it delivered for them significant knowledge and insights.
The Property Investment & Finance Industry Diploma is designed develop skills and knowledge in property investing and decision making so that professionals can take the next steps in property investment.
Federica Pastorino, a Strategy Manager at Charter Hall said she chose the course to gain a deeper understanding of the property investment domain.
“I work in technology, and like in any organisation, technology doesn’t operate in isolation; it plays a critical role supporting investment decisions, transactions, valuations, customer relations, reporting etc,” she said.
“Completing this course really amplified my understanding of the key challenges and aspirations of my colleagues in the investment division. I learned more about their perspective and day-to-day so I can approach projects with a more comprehensive understanding of what keeps them up at night.
“I’ve already started using what I learned in our ongoing review of the valuation process, where I’ve been working with our Capital Transactions team. I think this course made me a more valuable and rounded team member, allowing me to make more meaningful contributions to our organisation’s success.”
Charter Hall Investment Digital Product Manager Simba Nikurawu said the course has helped him gain a better understanding of the valuation process.
“We have started working on a project to streamline the valuation process and make it more systemised for our teams. My knowledge of the process is allowing me to contribute and be able to deliver more value to this project,” he said.
Charter Hall Head of Digital and Data Paul Bailey said there was clear evidence that property technology professionals’ benefit from undertaking courses such as the Property Investment and Finance Diploma by enriching their knowledge to drive industry innovation.
“The enhanced expertise fosters more collaborative partnerships with colleagues, which is underpinned by a shared understanding,” Mr Bailey said.
“This convergence of technical and property professional is helping the industry solve some of its most pressing challenges.
“Collaboration between technology and property experts has never been more important as it ensures organisation readiness to the technological opportunities that will boost competitiveness and deliver increased value to our customers and stakeholders.”
Property Council Academy Director Kelly Jones said like Charter Hall, she hoped other organisations also see the benefits of their staff undertaking professional development courses that might not be task-specific to their roles, but rather enhance their understanding of the roles of others.
“Offering a wide range of courses spanning workshops, online learning and specialised diplomas, the Property Council Academy is a professional development platform with something for everyone,” she said.
“A well-rounded professional is not confined to a narrow scope but is one who continues to learn, and the Academy’s tailored approach to learning ensures a rich and rewarding journey for all.”