At Concert Properties, communities are more than just buildings—they’re shaped by the people who bring them to life and take care of them. There are few who embody this dedication to community building more than Liza Bauer. Her recent promotion to Vice President, Property Management marks the next chapter in a career defined by incredible growth, leadership and commitment to those she works alongside.
How did you get started in your profession?
As of this year, I have been working in the Property Management industry for 26 years, falling into it by way of a company closure back in 2000. The US-based electronics company I was working for was closing its Canadian business, and I was retained on a contract basis to assist with the closure of the facility.
During my contract, I was offered a full-time role at DMS Properties. I left my contract early—foregoing a healthy severance—but I couldn’t have been happier with that decision. Once I got started in this industry, I never looked back.
What do you enjoy most about working here?
Without hesitation, the people that I work with. We are so lucky to have such talented and diverse professionals at Concert Properties. Throughout my tenure, I have been blessed to work with some incredible individuals. I have learned so much about our different lines of business, not only by being involved in various projects, but also through the knowledge sharing and pride everyone takes in their roles.
What have you accomplished at Concert Properties that you are most proud of?
While I’m very proud of my personal growth and career progression, I’m most proud of my team’s growth and their accomplishments. My team is the reason I come in every day, and I am always so excited when one of them earns a new role or receives the recognition they are due. They do the heavy lifting, and I try to support them the best way that I can.
How have you advanced professionally since you’ve been with Concert Properties?
I joined Concert Properties as a Resident Services Manager for Prelude. In 2012, I moved to the corporate office in Toronto as a Property Management Coordinator, moving away from day-to-day site operations. Over the years since, I have taken on more challenging roles and responsibilities.
In our industry, most individuals focus on either residential or commercial management. It is rare to have as balanced a management history as I do, and I’m thankful for the different experiences I’ve gained throughout my time at Concert Properties. It’s an opportunity most don’t get to have, and it’s broadened my skills and expertise in this field.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t shrink to fit the room; find the room that fits you. I bounced around before coming to Concert Properties, always trying to find the right fit. I obviously found it, as I’ve been here for over 18 years, and that’s only because the company created an environment where I didn’t have to shrink. I’ve been able to put in the effort while expanding my skills and knowledge to grow.
Tell us about your favourite memory at Concert Properties?
I have so many! I have been involved in so much of our growth here in Ontario. Onboarding five of our residential communities and moving our entire commercial portfolio to in-house management stand out in my mind. My absolute favourite memories involve the people I have been fortunate enough to work with. I don’t have one specific memory; instead, I have an entire album full of smiles, laughter, support and camaraderie that I regularly reflect on.
Outside of work, what do you like to do in Toronto?
In the warmer months, we spend our time outside the city near Peterborough at our summer trailer. In the winter, my daughter and I like to watch live music, attend plays or musicals, or go to a basketball game.