WINNER
Brooke Whitman, CBRE
Sponsored by: 14forty
Brooke Whitman’s success in this category is in no small part the result of her ability to wed an affable, approachable manner to the sort of team-centric mindset critical for successful outsourced FM.
Joining CBRE soon after completing an electrical engineering apprenticeship in 2021, Brooke has quickly progressed. Just three years on, she now leads CBRE’s £1.5m West Coast account and its team of 18. From an electrical apprenticeship to being a contract manager at such a young age is testament to her skill, ability and personality.
Speak to Brooke and you find a confidence in manner that perhaps comes from being a player of rugby at both club and county level.
You’ll also note her always-on approach to problem-solving. “I thrive in environments where I can think on my feet and find creative solutions.” She says. “I love being a part of and now leading a team.”
Notably for someone so young, Brooke has a keen eye for the profession’s development. As well as contacting her own school to explain FM as a career to others, she’s developed a reputation for onboarding newcomers to the business. Could this empathetic approach be linked to her rugby playing? A sport in which team members have to look out for each other? Certainly not many of such tender years already talk of ‘giving back’ and how ‘helping others navigate their careers not only benefits individuals but also strengthens the profession by fostering a supportive and collaborative community’.
And Brooke has also identified supplier engagement as an area in which her collegiate style can thrive. Applying her apprenticeship learnings, she has established collaborative partnerships with several of CBRE’s suppliers and service partners to further streamline workflows, them suppliers in regular planning sessions.
Colleagues talk of Brooke’s stratospheric rise being simultaneously grounded in a practical, hands-on approach both with colleagues and suppliers.
In her own words
“My ambition is to promote FM as a career path. I have recently reached out to my secondary school, to support career talks and share my experience since leaving school.”
“I understand the dynamic nature of FM and the need to stay updated on industry best practices and emerging technologies.”
“As a Rugby player, I am keen on health and well-being so actively promote this within the business.”
“Ultimately I want my next step to be as an area general manager, and by growing the business I can make this happen sooner.”
Brooke’s colleagues say:
“When I joined CBRE I was completely new to FM. Brooke was first to offer to be my workplace buddy. She made sure to walk me through the systems, the industry, testing my skills along the way. I think sometimes that she is underestimated; a great guide and a great colleague.”
Jess Chorley, Contract Support, CBRE
“Brooke is a rare talent. Her transition from electrical engineer to Assistant FM and now running her own account is an unbelievable accomplishment in the space of three years. A standout example and a great future role model to young female engineers or managers.”
Zoe Avenell, Contract Manager, CBRE
“Brooke’s ambitious and understands that there’s still lots to do and learn, but she embraces that and is refreshingly realistic and level-headed about her areas for further development.
James Martin, Area General Manager, CBRE
“Seizing the initiative…”
“I understand the importance of representing my organisation both internally and externally. Just as I proudly wear my team’s shirt on the rugby field, I take pride in being a positive ambassador for our division. I make it a priority to support and mentor my peers and colleagues, drawing on the lessons I’ve learned from my experiences at work and on the rugby pitch. By encouraging professional growth and development in others, I aim to build a strong team where everyone feels valued and motivated to excel.”
From the Judges
“Brooke’s personality and confidence comes across in spades. She has a good understanding of our industry for someone so young and a clear commitment to make a real impact. Definitely one to watch.”