I wrote a blog last month about someone who was instrumental in my career. Well, here we are coming to the end of our milestone 20th year at Think Retail. I’m so proud. As I’ve said previously, I could not have gotten here without the help of some special people.

There must be something special in a name. My mother’s name is Brenda; my late wife’s name is Brenda. And my boss at Olympia York was Brenda Campbell. At one point in my life, there were 3 BRENDA’s. Each special and spectacular in their own way.

Well, didn’t I think I was the shit in 1996, coming from 6 successful years leasing regional malls with Morguard. I had a good reputation as a great cold caller and deal maker. Brenda, quickly found out the l lacked some basic skills. I did not know how to analyze the transaction financially and never had heard what an NER was. Further, I had been working with someone at Morguard who was  selfish, unable to work as a team and disrespectful. SO here I come to O&Y with a good gift of gab, but I was a disaster to manage. Brenda hated me and I hated her. I did not care how well liked she was in the industry. She was going to get me fired. She pulled me into her office one day and said you better learn my system and learn how  to be able to work as part of our team. Team, that was a foreign concept to me.

I’m not stupid and now was my time to sink or swim in this business. Joining O&Y was a good opportunity for me. I drove my sister crazy for the next 2 months calling her to each day to show me how to do NERs. And then one day the unthinkable happened; it clicked. And I became a much more rounded leasing person in the process.

Brenda led by example. She managed our team with style and class. Relatable and likeable. 

She taught me how to be a stronger negotiator to be technically strong at both lease negotiations and financial analysis of each transaction.

I grew up under the Brenda Campbell's learning tree and I am so grateful.

And I don’t hate her anymore. Truth is I love her.

Don’t get jealous Paul (her husband).

Brenda, THANK YOU SO MUCH!