A people-first philosophy makes Concert Properties an award-winning workplace. This month we are proud to profile an exceptional employee who shares the company’s values and demonstrates their commitment to our principles. Meet Bernadette Worobets, Sales, Marketing & Communications Administrator, who joined Concert Properties in 2007.
Does your first professional job relate to the work you do now?
I have worked primarily in support roles. My first professional job was as an assistant to an investment advisor, which taught me to pay attention to detail.
Immediately prior to joining Concert Properties, I worked for a restaurant chain where I focused more on general office administration – Accounts Payable, Payroll, etc. The flexibility that my workday required prepared me well for roles I have since had at Concert Properties. I am always ready to help on any project whether it is for my department or another team within the company.
What do you enjoy most about working here?
The people. When I started, a colleague told me that Concert Properties was like a family. At the time, there were approximately 60 people in Head Office, so I was skeptical, but it didn’t take me long to see that to be true. While we have grown a lot in the last 16 years, I still have that same feeling of family today, largely due to our leadership, including our Co-Founder, President and CEO, David Podmore.
What have you accomplished at Concert Properties that you are most proud of?
I started in Reception at Concert Properties, but my supervisor allowed me to cover vacation absences in various departments. I spent a short amount of time in almost every department at Head Office, which allowed me to have a much better understanding of our different departments and lines of business.
How have you advanced professionally since you’ve been with Concert Properties?
Since 2009, I’ve worked within the Sales, Marketing & Communications department, supporting each team in a number of different ways. My position has evolved to include more responsibilities over time. For example, I now assist the Managing Brokers of Concert Realty Services Ltd. and help maintain the smooth operation of our Brokerage such as assisting licensed staff with renewals and course registrations.
What advice would you give someone just starting out at the company?
Concert Properties is an amazing place to work. We are 'building a people-first future' both internally and externally. I have learned that the more you put in, the more you will get out. When you volunteer your time for some of our corporate philanthropic initiatives you can really see the difference we are making in the communities where we work.
Tell us about your favourite memory at Concert Properties.
It is hard to choose my favourite! I think it would be participating in one of the many community giving events with my colleagues: Union Gospel Mission Summer BBQs for the Downtown Eastside; Sleep Out in support of Covenant House; our annual golf tournament raising money for trades training; or watching the “Concert Crushers” playing in the slo-pitch tournament supporting BC Children’s Hospital.
Share one thing, outside of work, that most people don’t know about you.
I volunteer with Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. It is a national, volunteer-based non-profit organization focused on finding the cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis while supporting the children and adults affected by these diseases.