ULI Chicago’s Women’s Leadership Initiative (WLI) created a new program series called the “WLI Breakthrough Series”.  The Series was established to highlight the accomplishments of women in the Chicago CRE market, while facilitating meaningful discussions and networking opportunities, both with the guest speaker as well as other event attendees.

The launch of the WLI Breakthrough Series took place last November and featured guest speaker, Laura Hines, Director, Hines.  Laura spoke about her successful projects, specifically the development of Chicago’s new River Point, which is where the event took place, as well as her career progression.  Laura also took time to focus on the OneHines initiative that she helped to create, which promotes diversity and inclusion within the Hines organization.  Several event attendees remarked at how their organizations can benefit from the example that OneHines has established.

The second WLI Breakthrough Series took place last week and featured Vicki Noonan, Managing Principal, Cushman & Wakefield.  Guests heard Ms. Noonan’s valuable insights on how she navigated a career in real estate, rising in the ranks from humble beginnings as a fill-in secretary to becoming one of the most well-respected strategic leaders in the industry.  As keys to her success, she cites her insistence on inclusion and making sure her team knows they have her back, while consistently refusing to tolerate condescending behavior.

Special thanks to Jim Carpenter, Executive Managing Director, Cushman & Wakefield, who interviewed Ms. Noonan and moderated questions from the audience.  In response to an audience member’s question, Jim said, “Leadership is everything, and to have Vicki come into this 500-person office and embrace decision making, solve problems, be accountable, and most importantly, show concern for every single person – she’s killing it.”

Sponsored by Chicago Title, guests enjoyed spectacular views from Cushman’s penthouse and terrace in an intimate setting that facilitated valuable networking opportunities.

If you have a recommendation of someone WLI should feature in an upcoming event – please let us know. Otherwise, we hope you can join us at our next WLI Breakthrough Series event in 2018.

See Pictures from the WLI Breakthrough Series with Laura Hines
See Pictures from the WLI Breakthrough Series with Vicki Noonan