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How did you first get involved in the industry?
I previously worked at the Chamber of Commerce. I was looking for a job change, and The Shopping Center Group, in Nashville, had an open position. I started there in fall 2005 working with a big-box broker who represented several of the national tenants. I absolutely fell in love with the industry.
What has been your most rewarding leadership role within ICSC?
My P3 role. I got involved in the P3 program in 2009. A lot of my co-workers from the Chamber of Commerce would attend ICSC events to learn how to navigate the waters of retail real estate. I started consulting with municipalities about how to best position themselves to be attractive to industry leaders and the retail real estate community. That’s when I got very involved in ICSC. I gained a lot of knowledge on what leaders required to be successful. Not only did I receive education, but [also] my involvement gave me a voice in the industry. I am a big advocate for P3 initiatives. It’s been fun to see the progression from 2009 to today. The new normal in retail development includes some level of municipal participation. It’s more important than ever for public and private sectors to understand each other.
You say that when you were younger, you wanted to be the busiest woman in the world. Has being president and COO of Retail Strategies delivered on this?
I’ve certainly tried. I’m also amazed with the women I’ve seen around me and what they can accomplish. This industry is filled with such intelligent, kind people who are willing to give. It’s a privilege to work with them.
Your profile on the Retail Strategies website claims that you know the secret to the alien-landing theory. I have to ask: What is it?
I could tell you, but I’d have to kill you. This is the 70-year anniversary for the Alien Landing. The Alien Landing put Roswell [New Mexico], my hometown, on the map. It’s a fairly small community, with good people. There are a lot of different theories, but the most brilliant argument I’ve learned in favor of aliens is that anyone not in favor [of aliens] is naïve and arrogant to believe we’re the only life form in the universe.
What has been one of the best things you have done for your career?
Joining ICSC. ICSC spoils its volunteers. It’s been so exciting to see the last 18 months under the leadership of Tom McGee. He’s put very positive initiatives into place. ICSC is the platform for anyone serious about growing their business. Where else can you go for access to policy, to deal making, to education?