Brookfield Global Relocation Services, a Brookfield Residential Property Services company, concentrated on the relocation industry’s trends, opportunities and challenges during its annual conference, The Forum, Aug. 28-29 at the JW Marriot Desert Ridge in Phoenix.
The event drew more than 600 relocation and real estate professionals, client representatives, service providers and others from the relocation value chain. The Forum’s theme, “Moving Forward,” symbolizes the collective spirit and momentum generated by Brookfield’s December 2011 acquisition of Prudential Relocation. The transaction created the world’s second-largest relocation services provider. Moving Forward also reflects the gradual recovery taking place in America’s residential real estate market.
“Energy and enthusiasm ran high at The Forum as attendees exchanged ideas, shared experiences and discussed best practices,” says Brookfield Global Relocation Services President Rick Schwartz. “It seems everyone is anticipating and preparing for better times in our industry. Our message to attendees was simple: Brookfield GRS will be there for clients with a strong commitment to exceptional customer service, and the ability to pursue new opportunities around the globe.”
Schwartz opened The Forum with an industry overview, followed by a panel discussion on business strategy.
Day two included a series of educational sessions and panel discussions covering a broad range of mobility-industry topics.
Keynote speaker J.R. Martinez, actor, spokesman and retired soldier, brought an emotional close to The Forum with his “moving forward” story of perseverance and optimism. Martinez, deployed to Iraq in 2003 as a member of Army’s 101st Airborne Division, was severely burned when a truck he was driving detonated a land mine. Martinez spent 34 months in recovery including 33 surgeries. In the process, he discovered he could inspire others with stories of his personal challenges.
“The strong attendance and participation we witnessed at The Forum demonstrates the commitment our relocation value-chain partners have for clients and their transferees’ mobility needs,” says Schwartz. “Working together, we are all about creating the ultimate customer experience.”
¬Following tradition, The Forum included a salute to suppliers. The following companies were recognized for outstanding performance and for consistently demonstrating Brookfield’s core values.
• Move One – Global Mindset Award
• Berlitz Languages, Inc. – Respectful and Inclusive Award
• Suddath International – Empowered and Client-Centric Award
• South Hills Movers – Accountable, Agile & Action Oriented for Results Award
• Dwellworks, LLC – Transparent and Having Integrity Award
• Palmer Moving & Storage – Sprit of Partnership Award
For more information, visit www.brookfieldgrs.com.
