FG Burnett Associate Director, Lisa Cowie sat down for a Q&A for the 'My Career Journey' article in the May edition of the AGCC Business Bulletin. The article provides a great insight into Lisa's professional development, experiences, and what she brings to our team today.
Q - Describe your early career path
My career path has been unconventional. As an early school leaver, I began training as a Beauty Therapist at NEScol and went on to work in several salons across the city. While I enjoyed this line of work and worked with some great people, I soon realised there was limited earning potential. One highlight was working in the salon at E&M’s – I always enjoyed browsing the departments on my lunch break. I finished my time there before deciding to retrain in Administration in 2002. This marked a significant career shift, setting me on a new path that ultimately led me into the real estate industry, where I have since built my career.
Q - How did you arrive in your current industry?
I started in 2004 as a Commercial Secretary and built my experience and knowledge by asking plenty of questions and learning on the job. I have been fortunate to work with supportive colleagues throughout my career, particularly one individual who has backed me from the start. This gave me a solid grounding in the industry and the confidence to keep progressing and developing my career over time.
Q- What’s the best thing about your job?
Meeting people has always been one of my favourite parts of the job, who knew that when my teachers used to say, “Lisa likes to talk a lot,” it would actually become crucial to my career! I love connecting with a wide range of people from across the UK, each with their own stories. The work is incredibly varied, with no two days the same, and I especially enjoy seeing new businesses open and being able to support them as they grow.
Q - What has been your proudest achievement to date?
Without a doubt, one of my proudest achievements has been obtaining my MSc in Real Estate from the University of Aberdeen in 2024, alongside gaining my MRICS qualification. I did all of this while working full-time, running a household of seven, and attending classes on campus. I studied whenever I could - early mornings before work, evenings, and practically every weekend for 2-years! I even surprised myself by being awarded a prize for topping my class. Considering I left school at 16 with no undergraduate degree, this experience really showed me what dedication and perseverance can achieve.
Q - What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
Trust the process. At 18, I probably thought I had it all figured out. I’m sure my parents would certainly agree! Looking back, I’d tell myself to be patient, not to be afraid to ask questions, and that it’s okay to feel uncomfortable at times. I’ve never been afraid to work hard, and while the path to get there may not always be straight, it will take you exactly where you need to go.
Q - What’s something surprising that most people wouldn’t know about your job?
One thing that has even surprised me about my job is that people often think commercial real estate is all about the property. The surprising part is how much it’s actually about people - from clients to tenants. The property is often the easy part… it’s the people who make the job interesting. Helping them find the right space, seeing new businesses open, and supporting them along the way is what makes the work truly rewarding.
Q - What does the future look like for you?
The future for me is about continuing to grow in my career while playing an active role in Aberdeen’s ongoing transformation. After so many changes and challenges, it’s exciting to help businesses establish themselves, support new ventures, and contribute to the city’s vibrancy. I want to keep developing professionally, taking on new challenges, and being part of the journey.
Quick Fire Questions
Q - How do you unwind in your time off? - Pottering around at home and spending time with my girls and family
Q - What did you want to be when you were little? - A beauty therapist on a cruise ship!
Q - What was your first job? - A paper girl
