Meet Susan Fiesta

What is your role at Avison Young?

Global Tax Director.

How did you get into commercial real estate?

This is my first experience with CRE. I was attracted to AY because of the diversity, culture, and AY’s growth plan.

Who has been the biggest influence in your life and why?

My parents, undoubtedly. Despite growing up in a very traditional household, I was brought up to believe that there would be no limitations to my life in any way because of my gender. My parents raised me to believe that my only limitations in life would be due to lack of hard work, not ability nor my two X chromosomes. While that was perhaps a naïve view, it was a nice way to grow up. As time passes, I am optimistic we are getting closer and closer to making that view a reality. I hope I am passing along that same view and confidence to my daughter.

What is the best advice you've ever received?

“You never regret doing the right thing.” This advice applies in so many aspects of life, whether something big that could harm your integrity or reputation, or, what I struggle more with in my life, doing the right thing such as prioritizing properly to make time for people and relationships. I know I would regret not developing a relationship and I make a conscious effort to maintain that mindset during the late nights that are often necessary to make it all work out.

What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace?

Choose your spouse wisely. A huge part of my success has been the fact that my husband is my biggest supporter. He gets it and picks up extra duties at home when I need to focus more on a big project or deadline. There is no scorecard kept. I cannot think of one successful woman mentor of mine that does not have a supportive spouse.