Our Perspective: Jennifer Cameron talks Corporate Finance
September 14, 2017
Jennifer Cameron, Associate, Stan Johnson Company
Q: You recently relocated from Milwaukee to New York City. What drove that decision?
A: New York City is where I’ve always wanted to be – it’s the real estate capital of the world. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin, I returned to Milwaukee where I was born and raised. After starting out at Northwestern Mutual, I later joined Colliers as an Analyst. The culture and leadership in their Wisconsin office helped me build the foundation I needed to succeed in the industry, but I ultimately found the opportunity I was looking for with Stan Johnson Company’s New York office. I was hired on as an Analyst, and one year later, I’m now an Associate and loving every minute!
Q: Congratulations on your recent promotion! How has your experience prepared you for a role in Stan Johnson Company’s Corporate Finance Group, and what attracted you to the group?
A: Since Colliers was a full-service real estate firm, I was exposed to many facets of the industry during my time with them. But through discussions with many different mentors, they all recommended choosing a specialty within the industry. Stan Johnson Company offered me that. I’m now focusing on emerging quick service restaurants and franchisees within the Corporate Finance Group – a specialty within a specialty. Most firms don’t have a group like this. Our focus is advising our clients about their business using a more holistic approach, which oftentimes involves larger firms reevaluating their current real estate.
Q: What advice would you give others looking to advance their careers?
A: Go to every meeting and get in on every phone call you can. This industry is based upon experience, so you need to know there’s always going to be someone in the room who knows more than you do. Realize it, and be okay with it. Don’t be afraid to speak up if you have an opinion or idea. And take risks; it was a huge risk to move to New York, but it will pay off.
