REIQ CEO finalist for award

Antonia Mercorella (pictured above), CEO of the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ), has been named a finalist in the 2024 Lord Mayor’s Business Awards.

Recognised for her outstanding leadership and business skills, Mercorella is a finalist in The Courier-Mail Business Person of the Year category, with the winner to be announced on Oct. 25.

Breaking barriers in real estate

As the first female and youngest CEO in the REIQ’s 100-year history, Mercorella has been credited with transforming the organisation into one of Australia’s most dynamic and influential professional bodies.

Her leadership has set new benchmarks in diversity and governance, inspiring a new generation in the real estate industry, REIQ said.

Praise from REIQ chairman

REIQ chairman Peter Brewer lauded Mercorella’s nomination, highlighting her impact on both the real estate industry and the wider community.

“Antonia’s strong personal, humanitarian and social justice values, shaped by her experiences as the daughter of Italian migrants, are at the heart of her tireless efforts in business and beyond,” Brewer said.

He noted her significant role in enhancing the culture of the REIQ and championing equality and diversity.

Community contributions and advocacy

Beyond her professional achievements, Mercorella’s community involvement has also been celebrated.

She has served as an ambassador for The Forgotten Women and was a former board director of the Sycamore School. Her work includes advocacy for a sustainable real estate market, support for proptech innovations, and efforts to tackle homelessness.

Decade of leadership and vision

Celebrating a decade as CEO of the REIQ, Mercorella joined the organisation as legal counsel in 2010 and took on the CEO role in 2014.

A lawyer by training, she has been a formidable force in Queensland’s property sector, influencing key legislation and promoting best practices, REIQ said.

Awards recognize outstanding Brisbane leaders

The Lord Mayor’s Business Awards honour individuals who have made significant contributions to Brisbane through their business endeavors.

Brewer stressed the importance of this recognition, noting that Mercorella’s leadership has positively shaped the city’s real estate landscape.

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