In the dynamic realm of retail property, women are increasingly making their mark, reshaping landscapes and redefining industry standards. In this special SCN feature, we invited nine trailblazing women who are at the forefront of the property industry. From leasing to funds management, customer and asset management, these leaders exemplify resilience, creativity and expertise in their respective domains. Their journeys and experiences not only inspire but also challenge traditional narratives, paving the way for future generations…

Christine Hogg is the General Manager of Asset Management for Woolworths Property, responsible for managing the property assets owned or controlled by Woolworths Group. Christine leads a team of nine property professionals who are responsible for managing these property assets throughout the entire ownership cycle, retail and office leasing and disposals of shopping centres developed by Woolworths Property.

Christine has worked internationally and also with leading institutional landlords and fund managers in Australia (including Stockland, Dexus and AMP Capital) for the majority of her career, where she’s gained broad and diverse experience in Centre Management, Investment and Asset Management, Capital Transactions, Development Management and Strategy.

Tell us about your career path and how you got started in retail property?

I spent the first part of my career as a Chartered Accountant working in Business Recovery and Insolvency in Australia and the United States. I returned to Australia to work with the Sydney Organising Committee (SOCOG) for the 2000 Olympic Games, prior to specialising in the retail property industry. I have been lucky enough to work with some incredible companies in some amazing roles, which have all led me to my current leadership role at Woolworths Property.

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced along the way?

Moving between countries, professions, industries and companies is always a fantastic growth experience but with that can come challenges. I have learned that despite some short-term discomfort and self-doubt, these experiences are ultimately what make you who you are and give you the resilience and strength to perform at a higher level and help in your growth as a leader.

Woolworths Clarkson, WA

What are your most memorable career moments?

I’d say my most memorable career moment was at the Sydney Olympics Opening Ceremony where we were all allocated ‘game time’ roles in addition to our day-to-day operational roles. My particular ‘game time’ role was managing the Command Control Centre at the Olympics Stadium, which involved managing all the back-of-house radio operators in terms of security, police, facilities and cleaning. After Cathy Freeman lit the Olympic flame and the cauldron got stuck on the way to the top of the stadium, you could have heard a pin drop! Clearly something I hadn’t trained for, but it instilled in me the need to think on your feet and to be calm under pressure.

Best piece of advice you received?

The best piece of advice I’ve received is that ‘people’ are always more important than ‘plans’ or ‘processes’. This advice is what has defined my leadership style. I always look for the good in people and encourage them to do their best and to be their best. Positive reinforcement cannot be underestimated.

What are the secrets to your success and what makes a good leader?

As I said before, I have been lucky to work for some amazing companies and with and for some incredible leaders. So I have tried to take the best of the leaders I admire and make it my own. I think authenticity is the key. As a leader, you have to bring your ‘true self’ to work and encourage others to fully be themselves and to support them in that journey. I try to be empathetic and compassionate. I spent years trying to be someone who I wasn’t and trying to ‘fit in’ but realised the best (and easiest) thing you can do is just be yourself! So I’m now proud to be different, to have different views and to stand up for myself and for the people around me.

Woolworths Leppington Village

What motivates you to keep going?

I try to look for a bigger picture.

I know this is going to sound corny… but I look for an opportunity to leave a legacy, whether it be with my team and helping them in their careers, or in the shopping centres we’re developing and the communities we’re part of.

What are your top tips for the next generation of female leaders?

Stop doubting yourself and, most importantly, be yourself. Work hard, get your hands dirty, try everything and treat everyone with the respect they deserve. Oh, and when you fail at something, don’t be hard on yourself. Take a breath and learn from every experience.

Why is it important to encourage females into leadership roles?

I think research has illustrated that females are generally less confident in their abilities and what they can contribute to a workplace and team. But in truth, females offer different perspectives, different approaches and ways of working, which help create a more diverse working environment.

What excites you about the future of our industry?

The diversity of work, the focus on inclusion in all areas of life and the opportunity to make a difference. I’m very fortunate to manage our Graduate Program and I am always excited to see new talent, hear fresh ideas and to be part of the incredible energy and excitement new talent brings to the organisation.

Are there any goals (personal or professional) you’re currently working on?

I still want to keep learning and focusing on my ‘leadership development’ as I don’t think we are ever fully finished. I have also always been very focused on my career and very disciplined. But for now, I am working on getting more work/life balance. When I am not in a meeting at work, or reviewing a spreadsheet, I enjoy planning my next overseas adventure or honing my yoga practice. I am currently reading a biography on Lee Iacocca – the legendary leader of Ford. I like his quote “the greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his or her life by altering their attitudes of mind”. I am fortunate to be in the position I am. I am grateful.

This exclusive SCN feature is shared with the industry with thanks to Redpath Partners

Premium members can view the full feature in the latest edition of SCN magazine