Altus Group Limited provides software, and independent advisory services to the global commercial real estate industry through its two core business segments: Altus Analytics and CRE Consulting. We are a global company with over 50 offices worldwide and over 2,600 employees. From valuation advice, to cost and tax management expertise, we handle the fine details so you can focus on your day-to-day.
This month’s Member spotlight; we got to hear from Director - Property Tax at Altus Group - Rob Newman
How many years have you been in this business?
10 years!
Why did you join BOMA?
Boma is a great networking opportunity and membership is comprised of many similarly-minded professionals. Lately I’ve found BOMA to be a great avenue for advocacy on behalf of its membership.
What's one thing - either industry-related or not - you learned in the last month?
Completely not work related but a hobby of mine is smoking foods and I’ve FINALLY dialed in my ribs. I’ll spare the details but there’s been much trial (and error) with many learned moments…
What educational or business experiences best prepared you for your career?
BBA from Acadia University & AACI from University of British Columbia are my educational background - but in an earlier life I worked in hospitality & like to think that’s helped with customer service.
What advice would you give to professionals coming in to the commercial industry?
Business relationships are just so paramount. Early on it may feel like you don’t know anyone, and it takes time, but if you get out there its truly rewarding to build and foster strong relationships.
If you could give advice to your younger self, what would it be and why?
Downtime’s important. I recall years ago having a hard time making time for vacation which was just so short-sighted. Of course, there are times where long hours are needed, but in my experience some of the best performance follows a recharge.
What's your favourite movie and why?
Hmm I like a good mindless comedies but can’t pick one (Dumb & Dumber, Superbad, Step Brothers, Elf, Napoleon Dynamite, Office Space, Old School etc, etc, etc). I could go on but just like a good laugh.
If you could have dinner with someone famous (dead or alive) who would it be and why?
Currently reading Malcolm Gladwell’s Talking to Strangers. He’s just brilliant and has such great perspective so have to imagine he’d be a great dinner guest I could learn a lot from.
How do you define success?
I’ll keep it open-ended, and ongoing, as I consider success to be the satisfaction earned from a job well done. Love that feeling, be it for a small task to a big undertaking.
Thank you, Rob; it was great to hear from you!