As the global community commemorates International Women's Day, Ingrid Filmer, CEO of Burgess Rawson—one of the largest privately-owned commercial property agencies in Australia — shares her insights, triumphs, and experiences as a leader. Ingrid's position as one of the very few women CEOs in the commercial property sector lends unique perspective and significance to her journey.

In our recent conversation with Ingrid, she delves into the intricacies of her leadership approach, offering insights into the strategies and principles that have underpinned her success. From navigating the complexities of the real estate industry to breaking down barriers traditionally faced by women in leadership, Ingrid's journey exemplifies resilience, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.

Q: Can you tell us about your background and how you came to be CEO of Burgess Rawson?

A: Certainly. I've had a long-standing passion for real estate and a career spanning over two decades in the industry. Prior to becoming CEO of Burgess Rawson, I held various leadership positions within the company, allowing me to develop a deep understanding of its operations and values. My commitment to excellence and driving growth aligned perfectly with the vision of Burgess Rawson, leading to my appointment as CEO.

Q: What sets Burgess Rawson apart from other real estate firms?

A: Burgess Rawson has a rich heritage dating back to the 1970s, making it one of the most respected privately owned commercial firms in Australia. What truly sets us apart is our dedication to client satisfaction, coupled with our innovative approach to property transactions. We prioritise transparency, integrity, and professionalism in all our dealings, which has earned us the trust of clients nationwide.

Q: How do you envision the future of the real estate industry, and what role does Burgess Rawson play in shaping it?

A: The real estate industry is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements, changing market dynamics, and shifting consumer preferences. At Burgess Rawson, we embrace these changes and actively seek to leverage them to enhance the client experience. Whether it's through digital marketing strategies, data analytics, or adopting sustainable practices, we strive to stay ahead of the curve and set new standards of excellence in the industry.

Q: What challenges do you foresee for Burgess Rawson in the coming years, and how do you plan to address them?

A: Like any industry, real estate faces its share of challenges, from economic fluctuations to regulatory changes and geopolitical uncertainties. At Burgess Rawson, we don’t sell volatile assets like office trophies. Our focus is on wealth creation, and we are continuously monitoring market trends, and adjusting our strategies accordingly.

Q: What advice do you have for aspiring real estate professionals looking to succeed in the industry?

A: My advice to aspiring real estate professionals is to never stop learning and growing. Embrace every opportunity to expand your knowledge, whether through formal education, on-the-job experience, or networking with industry peers. Develop strong communication and negotiation skills, as well as a deep understanding of market trends and regulatory frameworks. Above all, maintain integrity and professionalism in all your dealings, as trust is the foundation of success in real estate.

Conversation: Ingrid Filmer, CEO of Burgess Rawson—one of the largest privately-owned commercial property agencies in Australia