Power Women: Twist Of Fate Made Younger Partners Kathy Permenter An Accidental Entrepreneur
Younger Partners co-managing partner Kathy Permenter already has more accolades than most people achieve in one full lifetime.
When she isn’t serving on various boards, including the North Texas Commercial Association of Realtors, the CPA/broker is being recognized by numerous industry thought leaders and publishers.
She is a recipient of the DBJ Deal of the Year award for neighborhood impact, a two-time Stemmons Award nominee, a D CEO Magazine Power Broker, a D CEO Best Commercial Real Estate Broker honoree and a Bisnow Power Woman. And that isn’t even a complete list.
Permenter's rise to the lead of an entrepreneurial commercial real estate firm came from what could have been her greatest fall.
Bisnow: What did you dream of becoming as a child? How does your current career feed that inner child inside of you?
Permenter: I always dreamed of having both a career and a family. Growing up, I loved helping my parents host their company parties for Marion Laboratories at our home, so I knew that work-balance could happen. As I progressed in my career, I realized the way to achieve that goal was through entrepreneurship.
Bisnow: If you could teach women growing in the industry today just one thing, what would it be?
Permenter: To have confidence in yourself and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. OK, so that is two things. Give yourself some grace because things will go wrong at times; but remember tomorrow is another day.
Bisnow: Who inspires you on a daily basis and why?
Permenter: My business partner, Moody Younger. There is mutual respect and accountability. We also have a working relationship that encourages creativity to continue to grow a successful company. I’ve also been inspired by my father. He taught me the importance of a strong work ethic and creating a fun company culture.
Bisnow: What is your biggest career failure and what positive lessons did it teach you?
Permenter: I think the bankruptcy of Grubb & Ellis hit me hard because there was a lack of transparency. It was a critical time for me, and I faced extreme uncertainty. It turned out to be a great catalyst for me to take the plunge and start Younger Partners, which is one of the most positive things in my life.
Bisnow: Describe your greatest career accomplishment.
Permenter: I believe my greatest career accomplishment is reflected through teammates and clients that have become such great friends. I treasure these relationships and the positive impact they continue to have on my life.
