Elena Jimenez Discusses recent CPM® Designation and the Outlook for Property Management

BY: EDWARD BURY

The decision to commit to earning the CPM® credential was natural for Elena Jimenez, CPM®. A Property Manager with The Missner Group, Elena has worked in the profession for many years and received strong support from her colleagues. In this Member Spotlight profile, Elena shares thoughts on the outlook for property management and her interest in the written word.

1. What was the primary reason you joined IREM Chicago? I was introduced to IREM and all that it offered by my former boss. I began to attend some chapter luncheons and quickly realized it was a great way to make new contacts by meeting other property managers and vendors, as well as keeping my knowledge current by staying on top of the latest industry trends.

2. What inspired you to enter property management? I’ve been in the field for many years now. Property management felt like a good fit for me since it’s never the same thing day in and day out. It can be fast-paced and require critical thinking, especially when emergencies present themselves. It’s a field where there is constant learning, which is the type of position I find myself doing best in.

3. How has the CPM® added value to your career? The CPM designation demonstrates to my employer that I have the skills and understanding of what our firm requires to efficiently manage their portfolio. The CPM designation also shows to others the commitment and dedication I made to grow professionally and move my knowledge base to the next level.

4. What is your outlook for the future of property management? I believe the outlook is good. Experienced property managers are in demand now more than ever to help navigate through the current climate. As long as commercial properties exist, there will always be a need for experienced managers to manage them.

5. Does your company support your participation in IREM Chicago? Yes, my company has been very supportive of my participation in IREM. Especially since it involved furthering my education in real estate management. It’s been neat to see how my co-workers have been “along for the ride” with me and staying up-to-date on my progress. When I successfully completed the CPM courses, we celebrated collectively as a company, which was very rewarding for me since I have been at the same company for nearly 20 years!

6. Share something interesting about yourself. I am of Nicaraguan descent and have lived in Chicago since the age of two. I am a fluent Spanish speaker and enjoy reading and writing short stories.