Development manager Michelle Burk has spent the last four years bringing the $2 billion Brookfield Place Sydney to life. Find out how this secret star of property makes her own luck.
Michelle Burk, Development Manager, Brookfield Properties
Three words to describe my job… Complex, dynamic and rewarding.
When I explain my role to people outside the property industry, I say… Building buildings (simple, right?).
My three daily work essentials are… Coffee, exercise (it’s important for the mind) and my phone.
The biggest lesson I’ve learnt in my role… Never stop challenging yourself to learn more. It’s ok to make mistakes – as long as you are learning along the way.
My career motivation is… To never stop learning. I try not to think linear when it comes to title; entice yourself to explore and learn.
My advice to others considering a career in my field… Do what you are passionate about and you will never ‘work’. Development and the property industry is not only a great industry but a small one with even better people. Build a strong network rather than a large one.
The building or project that embodies what I do… Brookfield Place Sydney – a $2 billion development set for completion this year. The project has everything you could ask for in experience – commercial, retail, transport and public amenity components as well as rich history. It is without a doubt one of the biggest and most exciting projects underway in Sydney’s CBD and will completely transform Wynyard.
The inspirational quote I live by… You make your own luck.
This year I’ll be… Looking forward to celebrating the completion of Brookfield Place Sydney – a project that has become more personally rewarding for the better part of four years and growing.
Who nominated Michelle? Carl Schibrowski, Executive Vice President & Co-Head, Brookfield Properties
What makes Michelle a secret star? Michelle is a consummate professional in all of her dealings. In particular, her strength is dealing with complex leasing and tenancy matters – and doing this by building strong relationships through trust. As Development Manager on Brookfield Place Sydney she has played an essential role in securing several high profile tenant groups, securing their long term commitments and managing their transition and integration with the project. Michelle is also a great contributor to the overall team, goes looking for more challenges and opportunities to add value and is a big part of the positive team culture.
Property Council members, do you work with someone who is deserving of recognition? We’re looking for the property industry’ ‘secret stars’. They might have an unusual job, be running an innovative project, have been a team linchpin for decades or a new addition that is shaking things up. Drop us a line to [email protected]