Directors' Circle: Victoria Gracie, Opteon Solutions
Victoria Gracie from Opteon and I met when we each had a crack at running for Chamber’s management committee in 2015. We both got on, and what started as a new business association quickly become a friendship. If you’re looking for an endless supply of ideas, inspiration and energy – this is the woman to see!
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
That’s a tough one. You definitely don’t grow up thinking you will be a Property Valuer, it’s a very old profession. It was only when I went to university and mixed with other people studying property that I became passionate about it.
What happens in a typical day for you?
Everything! I was formerly a Director and Shareholder of Opteon; until I was appointed as Regional Director in March and now I oversee the operations/daily running of the business. We have seven locations; Airlie Beach, Mackay, Rockhampton, Biloela, Gladstone, Bundaberg and Maryborough. I get up early every day at 5am, go to the gym and answer emails. I spend the mornings out of the office looking at different properties throughout the region, which is always interesting. I spend the afternoons in the office answering staff queries, talking to clients and completing reports.
How do you stay motivated when challenges arise?
I see challenges as an opportunity to grow and learn. I am still young and think you can learn a lot from the people around you who have been in business for a long time. I stay motivated by focusing on the NOW, WHERE, HOW – where do I want to be and where do I want this business to be, which makes it easy to stay focused on the how.
What is your top tip for keeping organised?
This is going to sound off topic but exercise. It creates a positive and more focused mindset, which helps with organisation. Plan your day and write things down, I do not go anywhere without a pen and paper.
Explain yourself in one word.
Dedicated
What is the best advice you have received recently, and still follow?
Everything happens for reason.
Give a shout out to three local businesses.
Indus Electrical, Matthew Stevenson – Matt started his own business ‘Indus Electrical’ in 2016 and he loves what does! Indus Electrical offer a range of services in all things electrical from upgrades, new installations to planning renovations; no job is too big or too small for these guys. If you need electrical work done on your residential or commercial property, you can contact him at induselectricalservices@gmail.com.
Active Blendz, Brenden Mifsud – Active Blendz is a mobile smoothie and juice bar. What makes them unique and different is the use of a blender bike, which actually powers their blenders. They are passionate about driving active and healthy lifestyles through our community, and you will see them at events such as Eat Street at Harrup Park, The Colour Dash and local schools. Give these guys a call if you have a corporate event coming up!
DeadStop Pest Control, Ian Chataway – These guys are the inspectors you want on your side when making the biggest investment of your life. Ian understands the deadlines involved and is always eager to walk you through the report step by step. Deadstop Pest Control give you peace of mind in purchasing investment properties, and he also offers termite treatments, and is fantastic for ridding your home or business premises of pests.
