Victor Shiu’s Career Story
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 Victor Shiu – Senior Associate, Asset Management – Manulife Investment Management.
What was your first job?
After graduation from the University of Calgary, I worked within the accounting group for a large grocer in their Western Canada head office. I quickly realized that wasn’t the career for me, but it was valuable experience for a new grad. I learned a ton from my colleagues on workplace dynamics and being exposed to working within a large corporate structure.
How did you get started in your career?
After leaving my role at the large grocer, I decided to take the opportunity to go on a month-long trip to Australia. When I got back, the first job offer I got was for an assistant position with a local commercial real estate firm which I accepted. I was exposed to different facets of the industry such as leasing/sales, property management, and development. From there over the years, I went on to roles at different companies which allowed me to gain experience in areas ranging from masterplan subdivisions to commercial investment and development.
What inspired you to pursue this career path?
Working on something tangible and being able to physically see the real estate is satisfying for me. Knowing that the real estate matters and really affects everyone’s lives whether directly or indirectly is meaningful. The industry is always changing and there is a wide discipline of opportunities.
Share your biggest influence or mentor in your career?
I was fortunate to work for Blair Sinclair at one of Canada’s largest commercial real estate advisors on behalf of institutional clients. I learned a ton from Blair, everything from how to look at a deal to understanding the institutional mindset/perspective. Most importantly, he demonstrated first-hand how essential it is to be professional and fair no matter how big or small the task was.
What is one project or achievement you are most proud of?
I am grateful to have contributed to the development of River Landing, a mixed-use development in downtown Saskatoon comprised of a residential condo, hotel, central park plaza, and two office buildings including Nutrien Tower which is the tallest building in the Saskatchewan. It was a tremendously rewarding experience to be involved on all facets of the project from land through to construction, and finally commercial tenants taking occupancy in the buildings.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in the field?
Be aware of what’s happening around town and understand how it impacts real estate. Talk to people, there is always something to learn and you just never know what doors might open for you. No matter which discipline of real estate you are interested in, it really is a people business.
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