Career Interview with Jenny Donnelly

What were the main 'career decision' milestones in your life so far?

Having completed Property Economics in DIT and finishing during the recession, my class from college were lucky that a number of us got jobs in CBRE managing NAMA valuations, it was great experience reviewing valuations for a number of asset classes and dealing with various legal issues.

Who are the people who most influenced your career direction?

My parents have given me a great advice throughout my career so far. My college friends have been incredibly supportive also, having worked with a number of them over the years its great to great career advice from them in the areas they have worked in.

How did you go about getting your current job?

I was working in the agency side of the business carrying out commercial lettings on behalf of landlords, I spotted my current job on LinkedIn and it really appealed to me as I always had an interest in working for Aviva. My experience is predominantly in retail, so this aligned with Aviva's fund having a number of retail assets. I had an interest in moving to the client side also.

Given it was during a pandemic having applied online everything was done virtually from initial discussions to interviews, the interview process consisted of two interviews with the second being a presentation. My direct line manager called to say I was successful, and this was followed up with an offer letter from HR.

Describe a typical day?

A typical day for me can be very diverse which is why I love my role, usually there is a number of meetings in the diary with property managers to discuss any arrears and how we plan to deal with this, we also have a number of team meetings to discuss any issues with the properties. We are hands on with communicating with our tenants, so this is daily also.

What are the main tasks and responsibilities?

My role as Asset Manager is hands on managing of approx. 12 of our 48 assets nationwide, this includes liaising with tenants, property managers, solicitors, seeking to add value to the properties via developing sites, regearing existing tenants leases and other value add opportunities.

Re-letting any vacant units and reporting to the head of the fund Suzie Nolan is also a large part of the role as then Suzie analyses the liquidity of how the fund is performing and relays this to the brokers who represents pension holders.

What are the main challenges?

At present managing properties when there has been a number of store closures due to Covid 19 has been challenging, our tenants turnover has naturally been impacted so we are closely liaising with them to assist where possible but also having our investors interest and keep rent collections as high as possible.

What do you like most?

I like the diverse nature of the role, its very exciting as no two days are the same. We regularly get out to inspect properties also which is great.

Is there anything that isn't great?

Being part of a big company means there is lots of processes, but you get used to them quickly!

What particular skills do you bring to your workplace?

Being an Asset Manager, you must be a good communicator, determined and motivated so that you are keeping on top of everything.

What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?

For my leaving cert the subject that has mostly helped me in my role is business studies as it was a good foundation for learning about all aspects of how a business runs.

What is your education to date?

I attended Newtown School in Waterford for my secondary education, from there I did my degree in DIT to study Property Economics (Valuations Surveying). In order to become a Chartered Surveyor, I completed my APC which is a two-year practical training with an oral exam at the end.

What aspects of your education have proven most important for your job?

Becoming Chartered has greatly helped me in my career.

What have been the most rewarding events in your career so far?

In my previous role I set up a retail division in the company which was rewarding

What personal qualities do you have that helps you in your career?

I am ambitious to progress in my career which has helped me advance.

What is your dream job?

I am keen to progress my career in Aviva.

Does your job allow you to have a lifestyle you are happy with?

Aviva offers a great work/ life balance. They understand the importance of family life and wellbeing of their employees. Within Aviva there is a number of communities and wellbeing events also that you can benefit from.

What advice would you give to someone considering this job?

Work experience is always a great way to figure out what aspect of property you are most interested in, a number of companies offer a summer internship which are helpful and often lead to a job after college!

What are the three most important personal characteristics required for the job?

Persistence, patients, and drive.

What is your pet hate at work?

I am lucky to say I have no pet hates.

Have you undertaken, or do you plan to undertake any further training as part of your job?

I am always open to upskilling; I regularly attend webinars so that I am up to date on current matters.

What kinds of work experience would provide a good background for this position?

As above a summer intern is good or placement as part of third year as you learn so much and make great contacts.