Julie Gibson

Member Spotlight

Company: Portland State University

How did you first hear about CREW Portland?

I don't recall...it's been too long!

What motivated you to join CREW Portland?

Networking | Career Advancement | Meet Inspiring People

How did you get here?

After working for 4 years in banking, I moved to Portland and felt like I needed to do more in my job than earn a bank money. I wanted to help people. I learned how to do informational interviews and network, and found a job in asset management at an affordable housing lender. It was a great fit, and I believe if you work hard, volunteer for opportunities to help the company or your manager, that you'll ultimately be promoted. I have had to advocate for myself and negotiate for salaries. I've stepped into roles I didn't feel qualified for, but because others believe in me I had the courage to do the job. I'm grateful for those managers and mentors who saw potential in me and encouraged me in my career to rise to the next step.

Tell us something we didn't know about you?

I place a lot of value on work/life balance and flexibility in my career. I've made choices in my career that prioritize that, including moving to the world of education. I feel blessed that I've had a job that is flexible, allowing me to feel like I'm able to balance family life and raising kids along with having a career.

If you could describe yourself in three words what would they be?

Social | Authentic | Compassionate

Favorite Travel Destination?

Caribbean

What is one goal you would like to achieve through CREW?

We've been working on creating a new strategic plan this year for CREW, and my hope is that everything we do as a CREW chapter will be in alignment with the plan and our mission to advance women in commercial real estate. We have a huge opportunity to provide leadership training, opportunities to serve on our board and as chairpersons within our organization, and help elevate our members in the news. To see members' careers advance due to their connections and leadership training from CREW would be amazing!