People of DFAT: Thomas Hannan, the next gen of CRE

What started as a university job in Canberra has evolved into managing diplomatic facilities in London for Thomas Hannan. His experience as a Facilities Coordinator with JLL's DFAT team demonstrates that sometimes the best career moves involve saying yes to opportunities that seem slightly beyond your comfort zone.

At age 19, Thomas joined JLL as an administrative assistant on the DFAT account while he was studying at university in Canberra. "I was drawn to JLL for the opportunity to gain valuable work experience for a reputable company to kick start my career, and to work closely with professionals to gain insight on how they operate and work with clients," he explains. Over the ensuing five years, he progressed to Assistant Facilities Manager where he learnt the nuances and technical skills of managing diplomatic facilities.

Over this time, Thomas built strong professional relationships that would later prove invaluable. When he decided to pursue opportunities in London, it was a former manager who provided the key connection. "After working for JLL for over five years and a small stint in the public service I decided to make the move to London," Thomas recalls. "I was still in contact with my first JLL manager who kindly put me in contact with the JLL London DFAT Team."

The foundational skills and strong professional network cultivated in Canberra have since proven invaluable for Thomas, as he navigates operations thousands of kilometres from home. "Being so far from home, having these skills to support me in sticky circumstances has saved me from more than one embarrassing situation," Thomas notes, demonstrating how solid early career mentorship creates resilience for international assignments.

As a digital native, Thomas has been proactive in embracing technology as a tool to streamline operations. "I was lucky enough to be around during multiple transition periods to new and improved technology and software," he reflects on his time with JLL. With this perspective, he’s supported colleagues in adopting new technology into their global operations. "I like to think having this previous experience I have been able to bring a more accepting and fresh look at the new technology and ways it can be utilised to make our jobs a little easier."

The international commercial real estate market presented expected challenges that Thomas has successfully navigated through relationship building. "I knew it would be a challenge moving into the international CRE market. However, in very British fashion, if you're able to make a joke and get along with contractors and staff, it's more than manageable," he observes.

While Canberra is known for its cold winters, the winters of London have been an unexpected operational challenge. Noting, "The biggest challenge has been adapting to London's harsh winters (They're not kidding about London winters being tough), which impact not only my desire to go outside, but building systems."

Current projects reflect these climate realities. "We're currently managing a major boiler installation and removal project to address these temperature related issues before the coldest weather arrives, and no one is willing to come into work." This experience highlights the value of international assignments, exposing professionals to different technical challenges and seasonal considerations.

Through the challenges, Thomas credits the posting to a developing his professional skills and cultural adaptability. "Since making the move, my ability to engage with clients and reach an understanding on what they want and how we can achieve it, has developed tremendously," he explains. "I believe this can be attributed to not only my continued development within the business, but also a direct result of my engagement with staff and contractors in different countries, where standards and cultures are very different to back home."

For young professionals considering international opportunities, Thomas's advice is unequivocal: "Take the leap. While leaving your comfort zone can be intimidating, the skills, experience, and confidence I've gained since moving internationally wouldn't have been possible otherwise."

He emphasises both professional and personal benefits: "The personal and professional growth I've gained has been invaluable and when I move home, I'm hoping will set me apart in today's global CRE market. Plus, I got to travel around Europe during holidays."

From Canberra campus to London's diplomatic facilities, Thomas' career trajectory highlights how international assignments can accelerate professional development. His experience shows that young professionals with solid training and an appetite for challenge can thrive in complex international operations - and enjoy some European weekends along the way.