National Marketing
Marlena Serrano, Assistant Property Manager, Austin
How long have you worked in CRE?
Almost 8 years.
Tenure with TW?
I started at Transwestern in 2013.
How did you get your start in the industry?
I “found” Transwestern through a talent agency and it was my first job out of college. I started at the front desk as the office manager and gradually worked my way into property management. I’ve been on the Asset Services team since 2015.
What deal or project are you most proud of?
I love opportunities that go beyond my day-to-day role as an APM, like fundraising for Make-A-Wish or Ronald McDonald House Charities, TYP leadership and, more recently, DEI. It makes me happy to see people engaged and involved and I’m just thrilled to be a part of so many national initiatives.
Professional organizations?
Yes – BOMA. I am currently serving as the Special Events Committee Chair.
Favorite TYP event?
It’s too hard to choose just one! I loved the Upstairs Circus event we had a few years back where we created fun crafts while enjoying cocktails and the more recent tour of the Capitol building in downtown Austin. We saw behind the scenes what it takes to run a historic building and how it applies to our everyday roles in Asset Services.
Interests/hobbies outside of work?
Spending time with friends, enjoying craft beer at local breweries, trivia nights and traveling to new places!
Favorite spot in your city?
I love meandering about on South Congress – fun shops, good eats and live music.
If you could have lunch with one person, who would it be?
Probably Walt Disney or Steve Irwin. I’d be interested in hearing stories about their life experiences and what they had to accomplish to achieve their dreams.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve been given?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and use every experience as a learning opportunity.
