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Commercial Real Estate Podcast chats with Richard Joy
Real estate associations are an integral part of the commercial real estate world.
June 19, 2017
Eunice Wong, EY Transaction Real Estate
On the evening of May 8th, 2017, the Women’s Leadership Initiative (WLI) and ULI Toronto assembled a panel of representatives from the three orders of government (municipal, provincial, and federal) to consider how professional women in the multi-sector real estate industry can put themselves forward for service on public boards.
It was the second “Women on Boards” event that WLI has held with the objective of increasing gender diversity and the presence of women on boards and related committees. Sponsored by Cassels Brock LLP, the event sought to establish that the importance of female representation is not limited to private sector corporate boardrooms; progress also must be made in public leadership positions. The question is no longer about why more women should be on boards, but how. This means giving women mentorship and learning opportunities that will empower and enhance their experience on the boards after they get appointed.
Karen Stintz, president and CEO of Variety Village and a former Toronto city councillor, was the evening’s keynote speaker. Referring to her previous position as chair of the Toronto Transit Commission during 2010 to 2014, Stintz noted her time as chair was one of the most challenging but rewarding roles she has ever held. Recognizing that there is no shortage of support for changing the gender imbalance, Stintz suggested that women need more practical tips. She believes there are two things that currently hold women back:
The panel discussion then built upon the above themes, addressing the need for women to apply and build their network. The panel included Anne Sado, President at George Brown College, as the moderator and included the following panelists:
Each panelist provided an overview of the board appointment process, how vacancies are identified, how candidates are screened, and key challenges that must be addressed.
Recommendations that resonated with the audience included:
The event sponsor, Cassels Brock LLP, provided a welcoming environment to facilitate this discussion. Each audience member left that evening with more knowledge and encouragement to apply to public boards along with a few more women to add to their network.
Thank you to our Event Sponsor:
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