Welcome to our In Focus series, where we shine a light on our Project Management team around the country. This week we learn a little more about Charlene Smith, National Manager - Submissions and Marketing, Project Management.
- What is your current role and main responsibilities?
National Manager – Submission & Marketing for the Project Management division at Savills. My main responsibilities include the coordination and preparation of tender submissions (including expressions of interest and capability statements) and working closely with senior business leaders to assist in driving new business development objectives through both said proposals and Marketing activities. - Tell us a little bit about your career
My career has evolved immensely. After obtaining an Advanced Diploma in Graphic Design, I worked in a variety of roles in a range of sectors including manufacturing, mining. Legal, travel and the building industry. I was always interested in the property industry, which led me to apply for a role at Savills…and the rest is history! - What has been your hardest career decision?
Hands down moving interstate from my hometown of Melbourne to Sydney – the company I was working for at the time asked me to work in their head office. It was a difficult decision at first but I felt it I made the right one as I was still living at home with my parents and it was a great opportunity to move into the next phase in life. - What do you love most about your job?
Having the freedom to create documents / marketing collateral for the greater success of the business – the team trust me and give me free reign to produce submissions, which is incredibly encouraging.
I also love that I am able to indulge in OCD-tendencies with my meticulous attention to detail (both a blessing and a curse!). - What motivates you?
Deadlines – in my line of work, it is imperative that the team and I meet and exceed client requests and expectations. - What makes a great Manager for Submissions & Marketing?
Time management, being able to problem solve and the ability to be innovative. - What is your most memorable moment of your career?
My recent promotion to National Manager – Submissions & Marketing. The Project Management team have been like my family since day 1, so this promotion was not only humbling, but it made me feel extremely appreciated and valued. - What’s three words that describe you?
Dedicated, understanding and passionate - How do you manage stakeholders?
Sometimes it’s like herding cats (friendly cats), however the team understands the importance and work it takes to make them look good, so they are respectful with what I have to do to meet deadlines. - Did you think you would end up in the role you are in now?
Absolutely not. I didn’t even know that this was a job when I was doing my design course. But as the years have progressed, the need for creativity in the way a business presents itself has grown and I was lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time. - What do you do to keep learning and growing in your career?
A lot of online research and training programs to keep up with current trends. - What advice would you give to someone wanting to get in to Marketing?
Find a mentor in the industry who you respect and can therefore learn from. Also don’t lose your focus – if this is your passion, go for it! - What do you do in your leisure time to de-stress?
Playing and cuddling with my dog and catching up with friends for a few bevvies at the bar (adhering to social distancing rules, of course).
Learn more about Savills Project Management services.