The answer to one question has driven Investa Property Group Sally Franklin and shaped her career. What are the career-building insights for the industry’s rising stars?
As group executive for real estate services and business operations, Franklin is responsible for the asset, property and facilities management, building technology, capital projects, sustainability, environment and safety functions across Investa’s platform.
Franklin initially studied fine art photography before commencing a Bachelor of Business (valuations) at RMIT. At the time she had little knowledge of the property sector’s scope and the opportunities which lay ahead. While in her fourth year of her four-year degree, Franklin secured a role with CBRE in its valuations team.
“I learnt a lot about the broader industry, client relationships, workplace dynamics and the importance of a positive culture on company performance and staff engagement,” she says.
After three years in valuations, Franklin accepted a role at Urbis as a commercial property consultant, before being approached by Telstra for a senior strategy role.
“Moving to such a large organisation outside of the property industry was a huge shift for me,” Franklin explains, adding that it was “very apparent” that she was working in a male-dominated industry.
“I found it a challenge to navigate my way through the political landscape, but I set out to deliver my strategies in a manner that was professional, engaging and collaborative. Effective stakeholder management was critical. On reflection, this role really defined my value proposition and shaped my vision for the leader that I wanted to be.
“After a number of years, I felt I needed to return to an organisation more directly involved in property, so accepted the role of fund manager at MacarthurCook, which was a great experience. During this time, I also had the opportunity to work on the establishment of an industrial REIT in Singapore.”
An opportunity then arose at Investa, a company Franklin knew very well as Telstra’s largest landlord. In the 11 years since, she has held four positions.
“My current role as a group executive has been and continues to be the most rewarding. I am so inspired by our people and love that I play a part in the leadership of such a wonderful and honest organisation.”
Why workplace culture matters
“Being a female in a male-dominated industry I knew very early on that I had to be confident and accountable for my own career,” Franklin explains.
“I had to find the right tools to navigate my way through the industry I had chosen and ensure I remained true to my own personal style and the value that I bring to the organisation.
“I’ve had wonderful support and been given some fantastic opportunities, but ultimately it has always been up to me to deliver strong performances and help my team to do the same.”
Franklin says having young children and working full time has placed “extra emphasis on the flexibility and culture of the organisation I chose to work for”.
“Working with Investa is like being part of a large family. You can succeed and fail all in the same day and still feel supported.
“I absolutely love this industry,” Franklin adds.
“I have had a wonderful career. I haven’t felt my gender has been a hindrance to my success. I feel there is so much opportunity for women.”
Collaboration continues to drive diversity
One of Franklin’s promotions at Investa was while she was on maternity leave. Was she surprised that her company was willing to offer such a role given her circumstances?
“No, because I knew the leadership team believed in me and my capabilities. My career aspirations were known to them. I was delighted to get the call.”
Franklin says Investa’s employee benefits are designed to “develop, support and engage our staff at every level, while also providing the flexibility to achieve work-life balance”.
“We work flexibly and care more about our team’s performance and output than where and when they choose to work. Everyone has an equal voice and is encouraged to use it. We know that by giving our people the flexibility to innovate and by drawing on their diverse backgrounds, cultures, and age, the business thrives as a result.”
The Property Male Champions of Change have made “really great progress” in fostering diversity “from the top down”.
“I am confident that the industry’s collaborative nature will continue to drive the diversity agenda,” she adds.
“I have been very lucky with my experience as far as equality is concerned and I don’t take that for granted. There is still progress to make in this area across the broader industry.”
Franklin advice for aspiring property leaders is to “own your own career and be accountable for it”.
“Stop, pause and reflect on where you are and where you want to head in the future. Have the confidence to promote yourself and your achievements. Find the courage to apply for and accept new and challenging roles. And be clear on your value proposition.”
And look for the right corporate culture.
“What kind of organisation do you want to be a part of? The answer to that question should drive your career decisions.”