Stuart recently achieved an important milestone when we celebrated his 20th Anniversary with PS Business Parks (PSB). We caught up with Stuart following his milestone anniversary. Below is our conversation:
PSB: Stuart, tell us a bit about yourself and your role at PSB.
Stuart: I was born and raised in Southern California in Rancho Palos Verdes. I went to the University of Southern California and earned a business degree with a marketing emphasis. I am married to my wife of 28 years, Melani, and we have two daughters. I am currently a divisional vice president and oversee the Southern California and Seattle portfolios.
PSB: How long have you worked at PSB and what’s your first PSB memory?
Stuart: I have worked at PSB for 20 years. I first started on Monday, October 30, 2000. My first memory was coming to the office and finding out that over the weekend there was a flood. The cooling tower that serviced the building broke and our office was flooded. It was a little chaotic that first day.
PSB: Over the years, what has been your favorite part about working at PSB?
Stuart: My favorite part of working at PSB is the people. We have so many quality people throughout the company from the C-Suites to the administrative teams. It is really in some ways like a family.
PSB: What is the best career lesson you have learned so far?
Stuart: That the grass isn’t always greener on the other side of the fence. I can’t tell you the number of people who have left PSB for more money or some other reason, and then call me a while later wanting to come back to the company.
PSB: What advice do you have for other peers in your profession?
Stuart: Work hard and surround yourself with positive people. Hire people with good attitudes. You can teach someone a skill but it is hard to change someone with a negative attitude to a positive attitude. Don’t be desperate trying to fill a position. Wait for the right person who has the right attitude.