Sponsor Spotlight: Simpli

Why did you join CREWBaltimore? What makes CREWBaltimore different?

I joined CREWBaltimore specifically because it is different from other CRE organizations. Today CREW offers me the same benefit it did when I first joined – relationships with authentic, smart, intentional, caring women that support, mentor and influence me in ways that extend beyond business. When I started my company 25+ years ago, concierge services weren’t prevalent in commercial real estate and today workplace experience is a new and evolving industry without a playbook. Surrounding myself with CREW friends and taking advantage of on-trend CREW resources taught me the ins and outs of CRE; negotiation skills; resiliency and perseverance and has helped me be successful in my company, industry, career and personal life for which I am grateful.

How long have you been a CREWBaltimore member / member company?

Possibly 20 years…

In 2-3 sentences, what do you want CREWBaltimore members to know about your company?

Simpli, evolved from Charm City Concierge, enhances the workplace through onsite and virtual platforms that blend concierge services, experience management and technology).

We amplify building amenities, create memorable experiences, increase tenant well-being, and build lasting relationships for our partners.

We serve more than 45 million square feet of space that ranges from commercial office buildings to mixed-use properties, private corporations and corporate campuses.

Which CREWBaltimore event have you most enjoyed in the past year and why?

It has been an unusual year with employees abruptly working remotely and I think CREW Baltimore did a wonderful job of proactively pivoting to virtually engage members with valuable content and meaningful connections. I’ve most enjoyed the Conversations Over Coffee weekly programming where I am able to virtually learn, connect and grow with friends even though we are all now working from home.

Best weekend activity in Baltimore?

I live on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, however, my office is located on Fort Avenue near Fort McHenry. Many of my employees live downtown and frequently get this question from their clients. Here are a few genuine answers – picking up charcuterie supplies from DiPasquales Italian Market to have a picnic at Fort McHenry near the water; walking the Baltimore Waterfront Promenade from Canton to Harbor East; shopping the local boutiques in Fells Point; reading a book in Patterson Park; going to the farmers market under 83; playing tennis or doing yoga in Latrobe Park in Locust Point and then getting coffee at Koba Café.

What the benefits of women supporting women in the CRE industry?

Not many women are leaders in commercial real estate or technology. I’ve worked hard to overcome challenges in both of these areas–creating opportunities for myself and for new female leaders while bringing wellness, experiences and balance into workplaces. I’ve developed an all-female workplace where women are empowered to lead and evolve the company–resulting in exponential growth, innovation, and partnerships.

Best book or article you’ve read that had you fired up to take on the day/week/year at work?

I am passionate about mindfulness, wellbeing, culture and leadership and these things have anchored me in these crazy times. I love reading books, however, now podcasts have become my daily “goto” for inspiration and motivation. I am a big fan of Jeff Weiner, (former) CEO of Linkedin. Two recent podcasts I’ve enjoyed featuring Jeff that have helped me mindfully lead and grow my Company are: “Leading with Compassion” — Oprah Supersoul Conversation and “Transformational Moments and Learnings from Jeff Weiner” with Reid Hoffman.

Some takeaways for me were: Prioritize mindfulness, gratefulness, and balance in your career. Be intentional, genuine and joyful about your work. Weave this into how you show up, communicate, lead, manage, service and deliver. This mindset will encourage you to be authentic in the workplace – and ultimately create a holistic workplace culture that supports your growth as a person and professional.

Which CREWBaltimore event are you most excited about this year?

Although it has passed for 2020, I personally enjoy the Women of Influence event and hearing inspiring women leaders share their vision, personal stories of leadership and growth as well as advocacy for their teams, clients and women in CRE.

Tell us about a project, program or initiative that your company will be working on in 2020.

We have expanded our virtual programs during the global pandemic to provide an array of resources, services, unique experiences and events accessible for tenants and their families in office and remotely. Prioritizing our tenants’ health and well-being by offering an increased level of wellness content including workshops, healthy meal delivery options, fitness series and mindfulness sessions. We have elevated tenant connections with our own technology mobile platform to ensure tenants and employees are informed on their building safety protocols, community happenings, and can access all of our services and perks all with the goal of keeping our tenants and connected, productive and happy.