Susan Hill

Who is a female inspiration/role model to you and why?

The most influential female inspiration/role model to me is Gail Ayers, the former CEO of CREW Network. While on the board of CREW Network and ultimately being elected as CREW Network President, she inspired me to be my best and she personifies what thought leadership really is and should be. She had the ability to bring everyone together, to push them to be their best and think outside the box. While on the board of CREW Network, I gained a great amount of leadership experience, including how to move an organization strategically forward and how to have difficult conversations with board members while leading the board to consensus as to how to further CREW’s brand. Gail helped me learn how to increase my sphere of influence and understand the importance of listening to others’ viewpoints while coaching them to become better leaders.

How are you inspiring women to achieve their ambitions at JLL?

I am very blessed in my career and had many great role models over the years. I am unique as my whole career (for the most part) of over 31 years has been at HFF and now, JLL. I was fortunate to begin my career working with Mark Gibson, CEO, Capital Markets, Americas. Mark was a great mentor, one who inspired me to be my best and really took the time to help me learn the business as well as to be a team player. Without his support, I know I would not be where I am today. Because of my success, I do spend a lot of time mentoring young women not only at JLL but in the industry as a whole. I feel strongly it is our responsibility as senior women in the industry to help those beginning their careers or moving up in their careers. I try to always make myself available and provide guidance. Women have to support each other, be vested in one another’s successes. We have to encourage young females to take the risks necessary to be successful. I hope through my journey beginning as a receptionist (and a single Mom) to becoming one of the top female producers in the firm, inspires all women they can be successful no matter what their limitations may be.

Why does inclusion matter to you?

The world is a different place now than when I entered the business. There are more women and diversity within CRE. It is proven if companies promote and advocate for an inclusive environment, the business will prosper more than businesses that do not practice inclusion. It is no longer acceptable to not have women on a team or in leadership positions. When women are on the team and in leadership positions, they bring a different viewpoint from their counterparts. Women can make unbiased decisions, are thoughtful leaders and can address hard issues in a professional way. It is no longer acceptable to be oblivious to the women team members – they need to be afforded opportunities just like their male counterparts if deserving.