WASHINGTON, D.C. – April 27, 2022 – Administrative professionals are the cultural glue that holds our firm together. Without their steadfast organization, inclusive collaboration, and enduring goal to “make it work,” the rest of our jobs would not be possible. Our administrators are part and parcel of how we function in our offices every day. These people reflect the diversity and breadth of our business, which together define exceptional performance, drive and ambition while exemplifying our vision of People, Planet and Positive Design. Join us as we celebrate our administrative staff from around the globe today on Administrative Professionals’ Day.
“Our administrative professionals are our unsung heroes within CRTKL, carrying the weight and supporting our teams through thick and thin, always willing to go above and beyond for the firm and our people,” begins David Asfour, Chief Operating Officer of CRTKL. “We thank them today and every day for everything they do and contribute to CRTKL.”
In celebration, we asked a few members of our global administrative team to share how they connect the dots every day.
Tinamarie Martinez is the Executive Assistant to CEO and President of CRTKL, Kim Heartwell and is based out of Dallas. “I’m someone who wears many hats – or, as I like to say, crowns because we’re out here queening! I am a database, mind reader, sounding board, helpdesk, diplomat, troubleshooter, ambassador and travel consultant — to name a few. In all seriousness, although I may not be an “architect” in the formal sense, I do believe that I am an architect of solutions and conduit of information. This is a pivotal role in creating organization, prioritization, less stress and more productivity for my CEO and her executive team. I am a creative problem-solver with foresight and insight because of my 15yr+ career hindsight!”
Yoyo Qin is an Administrative Assistant in Beijing. “Administrative work is never inconsequential and plays a significant role in the office. After so many years of administrative work, administrative work needs to have a strong sense of responsibility, a serious and responsible work attitude and solve the needs of colleagues as much as possible. I’m thrilled to be recognized by colleagues for so many years. I hope to continue improving myself in the cumbersome work and keep creating higher value.”
Mary Brooks is a Receptionist for multiple CRTKL offices based out of Baltimore. “It’s my calling in life to help, so this job is right down my alley. Covering the phones for multiple offices has been a wonderful experience. Actually, meeting (via phone and Teams) some of the folks in the other offices has been a treat. It would be great to win the Mega Millions jackpot, but this is the next best thing since I haven’t!”
Carlo Zepeda is a Resource Librarian based out of our Miami office. “The challenge of not knowing various of this job’s essential components is in part why I decided to apply for and accept it. It is a fun new adventure and a good challenge for me — a role I am proud to hold, individualize and execute. I can add my style and produce great results while learning new skills as I move forward. As a new Resource Librarian, I can express and employ my computer, language, social, organizational and leadership skills. It is also an excellent opportunity to apply my creative side and bring about new transformation. The work I produce represents the extraordinary people of the CRTKL Miami community, the company’s vision and me. I am fortunate to work with an incredibly talented and generous team that is always ready and available to support and mentor me and offer their expert advice. This means I’m mindful of the ideas, suggestions and opinions my colleagues pass on to me.”
Colin Smith is an Administrative Assistant and Office Manager in our New York City office. “Through my role as an Administrative Assistant, I can provide unwavering support and the ability to problem-solve and navigate throughout the various situations. It is also a great icebreaker when working with different individuals in our firm.”
Tammy Sun works for our Human Resources department in Beijing. “We are largely dealing with people — or programs that will impact people — and people are dynamic, which makes it challenging to be in HR, but it is also so satisfying. I love helping others; I love the spirit of HR professionals that is always about improvement and how to make things better.”
Thank you all for everything you do, and Happy Administrative Professionals’ Day!