admin An innovative mindset, a proactive approach, and the skill to navigate unexplored territories are key traits of an innovative CEO who builds successful empires. Such CEOs possess a clear and inspiring vision that motivates others to join them on their path. They can adapt to changing situations and overcome obstacles with ease. These CEOs are not averse to taking risks or experimenting with new ideas, and they are willing to challenge established norms. They excel at breaking down barriers, regardless of traditional customs or stereotypes prevalent in the industry.
Studies have found that women have always been underrepresented in the industry, particularly in leadership roles, as the commercial real estate field was dominated by men. Obstacles such as a lack of mentorship, bias, and unequal access to opportunities are often encountered by women. Overcoming these obstacles and succeeding as a woman in this male-dominated industry is a noteworthy achievement. Karen Leslie Simon is one of the trailblazers who paved the way for female realtors with her unwavering determination, hard work, and passion. Karen entered the commercial real estate market in 1983, a time when the industry was heavily male-oriented and women were largely confined to residential real estate. Nevertheless, with her persistence, enthusiasm, and indomitable spirit, Karen became the first female broker to be recognized as the top industrial producer in the Dallas-Fort Worth region.
Challenges make you think and help you call on your underlying strength – Karen Simon
After dedicating herself to the industry for three decades, Karen Leslie Simon has achieved the prestigious position of President and Managing Partner at Emersons Commercial Real Estate’s Tarrant County office. The company offers comprehensive commercial real estate services, including property management, leasing, and sales, in and around the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Karen’s hard work and unwavering commitment to her profession have earned her this coveted leadership role in the industry.
Karen’s Launch to Greatness
Karen’s successful career in commercial real estate, along with numerous awards and industry achievements, is a result of her determination and perseverance. Karen began her professional journey as a teacher at Tarrant County Community College, where she spent five years before deciding to pivot her career towards business. She then took on the role of executive assistant at the Department of Housing and Urban Development for Area 10, where she managed public relations and intergovernmental relations for a five-state region. Karen’s transition from education to business was a pivotal moment in her career, and it set the stage for her to become a trailblazer in the commercial real estate industry.
Karen stumbled upon the opportunity to obtain a real estate license and take the real estate broker’s test, which would allow her to enter the real estate market. However, she faced a hurdle as she was short nine classroom hours, which was a requirement to qualify for the test. Despite this setback, Karen was determined to achieve her goals and took a leave of absence from her job to complete the additional coursework while balancing her responsibilities at home. She successfully passed the exam with excellent results, which opened the doors for her to enter the real estate industry. Within six months of obtaining her broker’s license, Karen received a job offer from the Henry S. Miller Company, the largest real estate firm in Texas, which marked the beginning of her illustrious career.
Forging a Path to Success
Karen made history as the first female industrial broker at the Henry S. Miller Company, where she founded the industrial department of the Fort Worth office. Her relentless hard work and
determination paid off as she repeatedly won the top producer position in the industrial department of the firm state-wide. Despite facing gender stereotypes that could have compromised her credibility, Karen continued to break the glass ceiling and set new records in the industry. She realized that clients were more interested in brokers’ capabilities and offerings rather than their gender. With her exceptional performance, Karen created a pioneering legacy in the commercial real estate industry.
Karen’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish the ReGroup Advisors Inc., owned by a woman that specialized in the management, leasing, and sales of Federal government properties. She later joined The Woodmont Company as the head of the industrial division, where she explored new opportunities in the real estate market. From 2003 to 2014, Karen served as the Vice President and Managing Partner at Bradford Commercial Real Estate Services before becoming the President and Principal of TIG DFW Metroplex West in 2014.
Joining the Emersons Commercial Real Estate Firm
In 2016, Karen joined Emersons Commercial Estate, established in 2004 by Richard Webb, a banker and real estate professional, and Matthew Price, a CPA and broker. This real estate company manages and leases 7 million sq. ft. in the Dallas region. Karen joined the company to lead the opening of a Tarrant County office in Fort Worth. After her arrival, the Emersons team expanded their scope to manage Kroger real estate across the country. To efficiently handle this significant opportunity, the company collaborated with Priority Properties our of St. Louis to establish 1045, a firm specifically focused on managing nearly 100 million sq. ft. of property, including Kroger real estate.
As humans, we might have many shortcomings, but be yourself- Remain humble in your dealings with others – Karen Simon
Karen found Emersons to be an ideal fit for her due to the company’s shared philosophy of achieving tangible results through dignified, transparent, and effective practices. At Emersons, Karen serves as the President and Managing Partner, responsible for business development, while leading a team of experienced professionals in sales, leasing, and consulting. The company’s technological solutions allow for flexibility and adaptability to various real estate scenarios, which is a defining advantage in the market. Emersons offers a comprehensive range of services including property and asset management, customised accounting, leasing, investment sales, specialty leasing, construction management, and market studies.
Karen’s Role as a Manager
In addition to her managerial responsibilities, Karen takes an active interest in mentoring the team and sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience. She is dedicated to ensuring that the company’s policies are employee-friendly and that the work environment fosters growth and development.
Karen As An inspiration for others
Karen’s story is an inspiring one, as it demonstrates that even when faced with numerous obstacles, determination and hard work can help one succeed. As one of the few women in the commercial real estate industry, Karen had to push through gender-based stereotypes and work even harder to prove herself. Through her tireless efforts, Karen has shown that success is achievable with the right attitude and work ethic. Her unwavering commitment to excellence has served as a source of inspiration for many, both within and outside of the real estate industry.
Karen’s journey to success was not without challenges, but she persevered by focusing on her inner drive and determination to establish herself as a credible real estate professional. She emphasizes the importance of standing up for oneself and communicating self-belief, as well as continuously seeking knowledge and education. Karen believes that acknowledging one’s limitations and having the courage to learn more is essential for growth and development. As a leader, she strives to inspire and mentor others to cultivate their own passions and drive, while also fostering a supportive and conducive environment for growth and development.
Karen’s Definition of Success
Karen’s definition of success goes beyond monetary gains. Although financial stability is crucial, success is not limited to it. She finds a sense of fulfilment in closing a deal even after having spent nearly four decades in the real estate industry. The satisfaction she derives from her work is priceless and goes beyond materialistic gains. In other words, success for Karen is a combination of both financial stability and the fulfilment she gains from her work.
Karen firmly believes that a clean and dignified path to success is crucial for effective leadership. As such, she strives to instil this philosophy in her team at Emersons Commercial Real Estate. She places great importance on maintaining a healthy work-life balance that prioritizes both client needs and the well-being of her team members. Karen understands the value of familial duties and ensures that
her team has the necessary flexibility to balance their professional and personal lives. Through her efforts, she fosters a productive work ethic that benefits both the company and its employees.
Karen’s Recognition and Awards
Karen’s outstanding career in real estate, specializing in sales and leasing of retail, industrial, and land sectors, has earned her numerous accolades. She has over three decades of brokerage experience and has been recognized as the top industrial producer in the Dallas region. Karen has also received prestigious awards such as the ‘Business Woman of the Year’ by the Texas Women’s State Chamber of Commerce in 2007, and has been named as the Most Influential Woman and one of the Greatest Women of Texas. Her remarkable journey was featured in Top 100 Magazine’s list of the Top 100 People in Real Estate, and more recently, she was featured on the Marquis Who’s Who list of Top Executives, a biographical volume that recognizes exceptional and prominent executives.
Karen is not only dedicated to her role as President and Managing Partner, but also actively involved in various organizations and charities. She is a lifetime member of the Urban Land Institute and has served on the executive board of the Boys and Girls Club, as well as the advisory board of the Adrian College of the Texas Christian University. In addition, Karen is one of the Chairpersons of the Jewel Charity Ball, which aims to raise funds for children’s hospitals in the local area.
Karen’s Journey Beyond
Karen has set her sights on some ambitious goals for the years to come. Her top priority is to foster the growth of her company while also taking care of her employees. She is especially keen on empowering women and helping them achieve their professional objectives. She wants to ensure that Emersons Commercial Real Estate remains a thriving enterprise that generates profits for its agents, owners, and employees alike. At the same time, Karen is committed to preserving her ideal work-life balance, which means spending quality time with her loved ones, including her husband, children, grandchildren, and pet bichon.
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