Welcome to Ten, CORE founder and CEO Shaun Osher’s rapid-fire interview series with prominent CORE figures. Read on to find out how this week’s subject deals with being on the hot seat.
CORE is a sprawling operation, and it takes solid leadership behind the scenes to make sure all of the moving parts are in their right places and performing the right tasks. Ashley Sternbach, CORE’s Director of Operations, is an expert at streamlining the many sides of our business and keeping things running efficiently, and her 5 years at our company have made her an integral part of our success.
1) What did you do before joining CORE?
I practically joined CORE right after I graduated from Boston University’s School of Hospitality. I knew I wanted to work in real estate after graduating and luckily, it happened.
2) Why did you join CORE?
I liked the boutique feel and felt that working at a start-up would be an interesting challenge.
3) What has it been like to see the company grow and evolve?
When i joined CORE, there were only 10 agents, and the company was really trying to solidify its place in the luxury real estate market. It has been amazing to personally and professionally grow with the company. I like looking back and seeing how far we have come.
4) As a Director of Operations, you’re typically behind the scenes, so explain to people how your role works, and why it’s so vital to the business.
The work that I do as Director of Operations is very versatile. The unique thing about operations is that it is all about performing multiple roles at the same time, while other jobs tend to focus on a specific, narrower scope. I am often wearing multiple hats, whether it is setting up a new sales center for a new development project or interviewing potential new employees to bring on board, no two days have ever been the same — and that is one of the best parts of my job!
5) Who is your mentor in life?
I would have to say my father. He is very entrepreneurial and has taught me the importance of hard work and being independent. He has also been very supportive, knowledgable and insightful throughout personal and career decisions.
6) What is your greatest daily challenge?
Overcoming obstacles both at work and in life on a daily basis and finding solutions.
7) What is the one value you admire most in a person?
Someone who is a straight shooter and tells it like it is.
8) Name one place you find inspiration?
When I travel outside the U.S. and explore other countries, cultures and lifestyles.
9) What is your favorite book, artist or movie? Name just one.
This is a difficult question since I’m blanking on all of the above. I can say that one of my favorite actresses is Liz Taylor, but primarily for her taste in jewelry and amazing fashion sense.
10) Do you have a question for me?
How do you balance the celebrity status that comes with being on TV with the responsibilities of running a business and keeping all of your clients and team happy?
My biggest challenge is time management and finding a balance to make sure I devote enough time to the people and tasks I want to focus on. If I’m successful at this, hopefully most of these people will be happy.