We are kicking off the New Year with an employee interview featuring Romy Mortensen, Brooks Resources Corporation Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Romy has held many roles with the company over the past 30 (!) years, starting as an administrative assistant to the General Manager at our former resort property, Mount Bachelor Village Resort. She took a short hiatus, around 1993 to work with an advertising agency (and Brooks Resources was its client at the time). A couple years later, she was hired back at the corporate office and has furthered her career with the company ever since. We are so lucky to have had her as part of the team for so long! We asked her a few questions about her work, and what she likes to do when she’s not working!
What are you passionate about when it comes to your job?
I am constantly learning, and I love that! I have been given multitudes of opportunities to expand my knowledge of the real estate industry through different roles in my career at Brooks, and I am grateful for that. The trust that has been imparted to me has been tremendous, and I take that very seriously. I don’t want to let my team down, so I dig in and bring my passion for life into my work. It brings me great joy to see the results of our hard work in designing and building neighborhoods and communities in Bend and Central Oregon. When I travel throughout the city I have a huge sense of pride when I notice all of the elements our work and influence has touched.
What is the best way to start the day?
Not being rushed, enjoying the sunrise with a cup of coffee, and hearing the birds begin their day. And, of course, a bit of a lovefest with my dog.
Who inspires you?
Oh, so many amazing people in my life. My husband, Jade. My family. My Brooks family. Many of my friends and colleagues.
What’s your favorite thing to do when you aren’t working?
Being in nature! I love to walk/hike, especially with my dog…and look forward to enjoying a new bike this year. Reading is an all time favorite way for me to spend time and relax, and I’ve recently discovered the joy and convenience of audio books. I thoroughly enjoy cooking, especially with my husband. I am very fond of traveling, and have enjoyed staying a bit closer to home over the last year during COVID.
What skill would you like to master?
Playing the ukulele!
What do you wish someone would ask you?
If I might be available to spend a day with Michelle Obama.
Anything else to add?
I am very lucky to have been in the right place at the right time to meet Diane Wilcox and Sue Bussard, who first hired me to work for Brooks Resources. And I’m forever grateful to Mike Hollern and Kirk Schueler for having the faith and trust in me over the years, allowing me to grow both professionally and personally. I’ve had a phenomenal ride and I do not take that for granted.
