Leading Victorian real estate agency Stockdale & Leggo has promoted former Network Operations Executive, Catherine Rogers, as the organisation’s new Chief Operating Officer ahead of a promising year for the industry.

Rogers brings more than 20 years of experience to the role having previously worked in a range of different positions within the Victorian property market including Sales Agent, Compliance Manager, and Marketing Co-Ordinator.

Her remarkable professional journey began as an 18-year old receptionist at an eastern suburbs advertising agency focusing on real estate.

“I initially started on reception and over the course of five years I learnt as much as I could and worked my way up to a Senior Account Manager, where I began to build relationships with real estate business owners and agents. I decided to take the leap and move into a real estate agency for the first time in 2001. Over the next 20 years I’ve held positions such as: Sales Administrator, EA to C-Suite Executives, Sales Agent, Office Manager and Compliance Manager, working with a number of successful brands before landing here at Stockdale & Leggo.” Rogers recalls.

She added, “Being able to take a little piece from all those experiences and connections has helped build my knowledge base across several fields which I’m excited to be able to share with the network.”

Rogers believes the key to moving onwards and upwards in her career has been a willingness to step outside her comfort zone by saying “yes” to more opportunities.

“I look at change in a positive way and I want to continue to learn and grow. This industry is everchanging and when opportunities present, I am a firm believer in making the most out of them and not putting limits on anything,” said Rogers.

Stockdale & Leggo CEO, Charlotte Pascoe, said Catherine was the obvious candidate for the COO role with her extensive real estate background and ability to create special connections.

“Our corporate team are all well experienced and have can-do attitudes – they are always ready to roll up their sleeves and lend a hand to help our franchisees grow. Catherine has fit right into the “Stockies Family” and will continue to be a great asset to the growth of our brand,” Pascoe said.

The final word from Rogers is about change. “I think the biggest shift in my time is how the industry shifted from being “about properties” to be “about people”. Opening opportunities to people from all walks of life, removing stereotypes, focusing on employing people who are able to build relationships and roles offering more work-life balance and flexibility. It’s now about empowering employees with the right tools, education and providing a positive and healthy workplace culture which in turn breeds successful careers and businesses.”