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…
Fiona Mackenzie joined Coles in 2021 to lead the Property/Construction function for Coles Group. Working across both supermarkets and the liquor business, Fiona is responsible for the future growth of the omnichannel network as well as the ongoing optimisation of the near 2,200 stores. Prior to joining Coles, Fiona spent six years at Vicinity Centres, where she held the role of Director, Chadstone and the Premium Portfolio. Having been on the landlord side for her career in property, she has held senior management roles for both large organisations including Westfield for 12 years as well as smaller private groups.
Tell us about your career path and how you got started in retail property?
Completing a Marketing and Japanese Degree, Property was never really on the agenda and I’m happy to say looking back that it was a happy accident for me. Having grown up driving past Westfield Southland and seeing it grow and develop, the thought of being part of something so dynamic really appealed to me. When I finished university, I travelled for a number of years and when it was time to start thinking about a career, I thought the shopping centre industry sounded like great fun! I wrote to several landlords telling them they should employ me. Westfield responded with an Assistant Marketing Manager role at Westfield Fountain Gate – the rest you could say is history.
What are some of the challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I have always been super ambitious in developing my career. With that comes moments where I have felt out of my comfort zone in terms of technical knowledge and relevant experience. There were times where this could have shaken my confidence, however, I have always in these instances lifted the work rate, expanded the network and been honest in asking for help. Overcoming these moments has always then progressed me further and allowed me to continue in my development.
Making sure in these instances you surround yourself with people who complement your skills as opposed to replicating them can set you up for success.
What are your most memorable career moments?
There is nothing quite like working on a development and opening something new that has real impact on its customers and community. Opening Westfield Plenty Valley all in one go was a real highlight and had such a positive impact on the community. Another highlight was the opening of Hotel Chadstone – the first 5-star hotel associated with a centre, that day will be forever cast in my memory!
Who is someone who has inspired you?
I wouldn’t say I have just one person who has inspired me. I always look to my network and the business I am in for people who are authentic in their style and who have leant into their role to make a positive difference. There was one occasion many years ago where, as a Centre Manager, I was involved in a poor incident that led to very negative media and public response. Steven Lowy at the time said to me “you can let this affect you and your team or can really lean into it, work through it and make yourself stronger”. To this day, I never run away from a problem or difficult conversation.
Coles Currambine, WA
What are the secrets to your success?
I wouldn’t say there are any secrets, nor do I aspire to be anything I am not. I try to be the most authentic version of myself and show up everyday with a positive mindset. Women often get feedback that they need to hide their vulnerable side or leave their emotions at home. I think I have managed to be successful by not doing that but working everyday to bring the best out of these traits as a leader.
I once had a leader who suggested I was getting emotional in a meeting. Passion and emotion often get misunderstood. I bring passion in spades.
How do you manage self-doubt?
Self-doubt is not something that has ever really plagued my career, I have regularly subscribed to the “fake it till you make it” mandate. You cannot fake it for too long and I have never been afraid to ask for help, call in an expert or lean on colleagues if I feel like I need some support. Continual improvement has always been a foundation for me. With a strong growth mindset, I have always looked for what’s next; where are the next opportunities? Or how do I/my team keep progressing forward?
What are your top tips for the next generation of female leaders?
Don’t sweat the small stuff, not every battle needs a fight. The environment for women is improving, it’s not perfect but it’s getting there. Work hard and play hard, there is no substitute for hard work, and hard work delivers great outcomes and results get earned. On the play side of things… You are at work for a lot of time, your work colleagues can become like family. Don’t forget to have fun along the way.
Why is it important to encourage females into leadership roles?
Diversity of all kinds brings out the best in business, the different perspectives that both men and women bring is important. I currently work with Leah Weckert, the first female CEO in Coles’ 100-year history. Joining Leah on our executive team are four strong female leaders. With role models like these, the workplace is changing as young women can now see a path to C suite and broader executive roles. More importantly, in organisations such as Coles, what excites me is that there are exemplary male leaders who champion the careers of all, including women.
Craigieburn Village, VIC
What excites you about the future of our industry?
What I have always loved about property and what will continue is that it never stands still – it is always changing. With the onset of online shopping, many believed it would be the death of the centre; if ten years ago a 5-star hotel could sit along side a suburban shopping centre, we would have thought it was crazy and who would have thought that customers would make their decision to shop based on the experiences they could get in the malls? The industry is resilient and continues to adapt and change, the art of the possible is alive and well in our industry – it’s just there for the making!
Are there any goals (personal or professional) you’re currently working on?
As I mentioned earlier, continuous improvement applies to both my personal and professional life. From a Coles perspective, I look forward to championing an amazing team of property professionals who help enable Coles’ strategy to help all Australians eat and liver healthier every day. We are motivated and determined to continue to create the places where Coles and the community connects.
From a personal perspective there is a lot on! I’m planning my next season of Horse-riding adventures in New Zealand and maybe Africa!
I’m also competing with my gym buddies in HYROX an epic fitness competition, but, more importantly, providing my two daughters the best opportunities to grow and be the best they can be as they navigate high school.
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
