International Women’s Day series: Q&A with Cheryl Peterson

Name: Cheryl Peterson
Position: Director – Commercial Property Management

1. What are you most proud of doing or achieving in your personal or professional life?
When working for our company back in 2018 I was Awarded the Highest Revenue Earner. I was the only female in this category in Australia & New Zealand. I was part of the founding team for the Stockland WA – Commercial Property Division and was fundamentally responsible for the conception of the management office.
I also worked collaboratively within Stockland as part of the integral team that designed, built, and managed 2 Victoria Avenue, Perth and my photo appears on the side of the building. I then worked in Stockland Retirement Living for 3.5 years and was responsible for overseeing the operations of six Western Australia based Retirement Living Villages. I was awarded the Integrity & Compassion Award and was involved in the development and management of Stockland’s first Retirement Village in WA

2. What is the most important piece of advice you have been given?
Never underestimate your ability to make a difference. When I returned to the workplace after having my three sons, a colleague who ended up being my mentor, often told me I underestimated just how much value I bought to the team.

3. Why do you think diversity in the workplace is so important?
A diverse workplace allows for a broader range of skills and experience. Different perspectives not only increase productivity but allows for change and adaptability

4. What is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about their careers?
Don’t let fear or insecurity stop you from chasing your goals. It’s often when we are out of our comfort zones that we truly find our inner strength and courage.

5. How can we encourage more women to pursue entrepreneurship or senior leadership roles in their career?
Seek out strong mentors and/or leaders. Every woman is a determined woman but having someone who encourages and challenges you (male or female), only enables you to discover your own self-worth.

6. What did you dream of doing when you were a child?
I wanted to be a Writer. I started studying journalism when at university, but realised it was not the form of writing I enjoyed. I love creative writing and am currently in the process of writing a novel. Who knows if it will ever be published, but that’s all part of the journey.