The Shopping Centre industry is driven by people. It’s the skills and expertise of the people that manage, develop and evolve shopping centres for their communities that creates this great industry. Shopping Centre News profiles a range of interesting people from the industry each week. This week, we speak to Justin Blumfield from Vicinity Centres.
What is your current role and main responsibilities?
Currently the Regional General Manager at Vicinity Centres. Responsible for the management of the DFO Portfolio and our centres in South Australia and Tasmania.
How did you get in to this industry?
I moved to Newcastle with my now wife and needed a job! I applied for the role of assistant marketing manager at the local shopping centre Charlestown Square. 11 years on and here I am at Vicinity Centres.
What do you love most about your job?
I love the variety in my role. One day I am in South Australia working with a team leading a Regional Centre and then next week I am working with our amazing DFO teams nationally across Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and soon to be Perth.
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- DFO Perth, exterior
What motivates you?
I am motivated by seeing my teams work hard towards a goal and then observe them achieving their desired results.
What is your most memorable moment of your career?
The most memorable moment of my career was attending the opening of the Emporium in Melbourne. It was such a great event and the centre looked amazing.
What advice would you give to someone starting in the industry?
My advice is to ensure you ask lots of questions! Always asking why we do what we do will ensure new comers gain a sound understanding of shopping centre operations.
What do you do in your leisure time to de-stress?
I love watching all types of sport, particularly AFL, Cricket and F1.
What’s your favourite retailer and why?
Calibre is my go to brand for work/casual wear.
Do you like shopping?
Let’s just say my wife likes shopping more than me!
What is the single most important quality you need to possess to be in this industry?
I think having resilience is important. There are so many unexpected challenges thrown at you in the shopping centre industry both at the centre and a national level.
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- DFO, Perth, interior
For more information on the profiles or to participate, please contact Belinda, belinda@shoppingcentrenews.com.au
