Jenn Robertson’s Career Story
Senior Associate, Transaction Manager – Colliers International
This series features the professional journeys of a wide range of individuals across Canada’s real estate development industry. Often, these stories highlight how rewarding careers in real estate development are the result of following your interests, fostering personal and professional networks, and keeping an open mind about what a career in real estate development might be.
Meet Jenn Robertson – Senior Associate, Transaction Manager – Colliers International.
How did you get started in your career?
I accidentally stumbled into commercial real estate. My corporate career started in Information Technology and the Oil & Gas industry. While I was between roles, I took a temporary position at another brokerage in Calgary. I had no prior experience in commercial real estate (CRE), but it quickly turned into a permanent role. From there, I was headhunted for my current position. I’ve now been with Colliers for eight years, working in the industrial division.
Tell us a bit about your first job.
I’m a born-and-raised Calgarian, and my first job was at the Calgary Stampede when I was 15 years old. It was a fun job as a teenager, but it also meant ten straight days of work outdoors, experiencing every kind of weather condition Calgary has to offer. From that experience, I learned the importance of showing up, working hard no matter the conditions, and staying positive when things don’t go exactly as planned.
Have you considered a career switch within or outside of the broader real estate industry?
Early on in my career, I thought about going to university to become a teacher. After spending a year overseas working in a school in England, I quickly realized it wasn’t the right path for me. When I moved home, I made a pivot into the corporate working world instead. That experience taught me that it’s okay to change direction and take a different path in order to find something you truly enjoy.
Who was your biggest influence or mentor in your career?
I’m extremely lucky to work alongside an exceptional operations manager, Anna Tan, who has had a significant influence on my career. Over the years, she has been an incredible coach and mentor and a constant sounding board. Anna has always encouraged me to be involved in the industry and has strongly supported my continuing education journey at SAIT and through RECA as I pursued my real estate license. She continues to be someone I seek advice from and admire for her leadership, professionalism, and commitment to developing others.
What is one project or achievement you are most proud of?
One achievement I’m most proud of is my involvement with the CREW Calgary Chapter over the past few years. I’ve had the opportunity to volunteer on multiple committees, attend two CREW convention conferences in Vancouver and Austin, TX, and connect with so many incredible members. I was especially honored to receive the Volunteer of the Year Award in 2025. Being part of such a supportive and inspiring organization has been extremely rewarding, and it’s made me wish I had become involved earlier in my career, as the relationships, mentorship, and opportunities CREW provides have had such a meaningful impact on my professional growth.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in the field?
The commercial real estate industry in Calgary is a small, close-knit community where everyone knows each other. There are plenty of opportunities to grow and endless paths to explore. My advice is to put yourself out there to meet people, attend events, and get involved in the community. Make an effort to build your network early because strong relationships are incredibly important in this industry.
Do you belong to any associations or industry groups?
Yes, I’m actively involved in several industry and community organizations. I’ve been a volunteer with CREW Calgary for the past several years, serving on the Sponsorship Committee and as Co-Chair of the Gala Committee. I’m also involved with the NAIOP Calgary Golf Committee and sit on the Colliers Calgary volunteer committee, where we coordinate team volunteer initiatives with organizations such as Senior’s Secret Service, the Calgary Food Bank, and Brown Bagging for Kids.
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