Today, we speak with Iskra Tomova, Property Manager at Everty in Bulgaria. From childhood dreams of becoming an interior architect to managing 32,000 square meters of office space, Iskra’s journey into real estate is both inspiring and impressive. Read on to discover more about her dynamic role, her journey into property management, and her adventurous spirit.
- Can you provide a brief overview of your current role and the main responsibilities associated with it?
In my current role, I manage approximately 32,000 square meters of Class A and Class B office premises. I serve as the primary contact for all tenants, handling their requests and overseeing lease agreements. My responsibilities include fiscal management of the assets, executing and implementing both OPEX and CAPEX, and daily interactions with subcontractors and vendors. Additionally, I supervise repair and maintenance work, manage capital expenditures, and execute tenant retention programs.
2. What does a typical day look like for you in your current position?
A typical day in my current position is very dynamic and varied. No two days are alike, given the number of tasks required to ensure the smooth operation of our assets. On any given day, I could find myself meeting with tenants, or I might be up on the roof overseeing the installation of a large building sign. Other days involve visiting different properties to ensure that the services provided to tenants maintain a high standard of quality, or I might spend an entire day at my desk, focused on tasks such as service charge reconciliations or indexations.
3. What aspects of your job do you find most rewarding and fulfilling?
The most rewarding and fulfilling aspects of my job are the establishment of strong, enduring relationships with both tenants and vendors. These relationships serve as tangible evidence that our efforts are effective and that we are successfully meeting the needs of all parties involved.
4. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you feel are particularly crucial for success in your current role?
In my role, a crucial skill for success involves adeptly balancing the needs of tenants with the goals of the property owner. Property managers should have expertise across multiple disciplines, including finance, accounting, HR, marketing, leasing, technical maintenance, legal affairs, and procurement.
5. What did you aspire to be when you were a child?
As a child, I wanted to become an interior architect and designer.
6. Did you ever envision, during your youth, that you would eventually find yourself working in the real estate/hospitality sector?
During my youth, I was always drawn to architecture, interior design, and the transformation of spaces. Although my bachelor’s degree was in Economics of Tourism, leading me to envision a career managing a nice hotel, I eventually found myself captivated by the real estate sector over a decade ago. It felt as though real estate had discovered me and found great fulfilment in this field.
7. What activities do you enjoy doing in your free time? What are you most passionate about?
Apart from spending quality time with my family, I really enjoy traveling and exploring new destinations. Whenever we get the chance, we love booking a flight to discover new places in Europe together.
8. What is the best place you have ever been to?
If I had to choose, I would say Hawaii and Costa Rica hold the top spots for me. The natural beauty of both destinations amazes me, and I find myself constantly longing to return.
9. What do you consider to be the happiest moment in your life?
For me, the happiest moment in life was the birth of my son. His arrival has brought immense joy and strength, empowering me to tackle every new challenge, both professionally and personally.
10. Is there anything pending on your bucket list that you would like to do in your lifetime?
One pending item on my bucket list that I would love to experience in my lifetime is skydiving. It’s an adventure I’m eagerly looking forward to! 😊
