No Degree, No Problem – Building A Commercial Real Estate Career at Shead

When young people think about career options after school, commercial real estate isn’t always on the radar. And for those that do, larger firms often insist on degrees in land economics or related fields just to consider them for an entry-level role. But at Shead, the pathway looks different. We believe opportunity should be based on potential, drive and attitude – not just a qualification.

For decades, Shead has built careers in commercial real estate by offering hands-on learning, genuine mentorship and clear pathways from entry-level roles to senior leadership and even business ownership. For those with ambition, commitment and a solid work ethic, it’s a chance to grow in a niche sector of real estate that offers exceptional long-term opportunities.

From entry-level to thriving career

Some of Shead’s most successful team members started in reception or residential leasing. These entry points give young people exposure to the fundamentals of real estate, from handling enquiries to understanding tenant needs. From there, those who show promise and interest can step into commercial leasing, property management and sales roles, building their expertise in a sector where the stakes – and rewards – are higher.

One recent example shows how quickly people can progress. After trying a few different industries, a young professional joined Shead as a residential leasing consultant. Within a year, their professionalism and natural ability were immediately evident.

As Head of Commercial Sales and Leasing Bill Geroulis recalls: “They stood out straight away. Professional, well-spoken and curious. When I suggested commercial sales and leasing, their eyes lit up. They grabbed the opportunity with both hands.”

Just under three years later, this team member is thriving in the commercial team, building relationships with clients, managing deals independently and establishing their own professional profile in the market. Their story reflects a key point of difference here at Shead: if you have the hunger to learn and the drive to succeed, we’ll provide the platform and the mentorship to help you achieve it.

Why choose commercial?

Commercial property isn’t for everyone. It requires professionalism, resilience, a willingness to work beyond the 9–5 and an appetite for learning. But for those who embrace it, the rewards are significant. Larger transactions, long-term relationships with business clients and exposure to complex deals make it an intellectually and financially rewarding field.

As Bill explains: “Some people are suited to residential, but others are commercial at heart. The numbers are bigger, the clients are professional, and you get to be involved in deals that can really shape the business community.”

Mentorship and real-world learning

Unlike in larger corporates where junior staff may spend years behind a desk, Shead offers mentorship and real-world learning from day one. Entry-level staff attend inspections, sit in on boardroom meetings and learn through direct involvement in negotiations and client interactions. It’s this early exposure that sets Shead apart from larger firms, where junior staff may wait years before stepping into the same room as clients.

This hands-on exposure accelerates growth. Most team members are up and running within 12 to 18 months, closing deals and contributing real value. Along the way, they benefit from guidance by senior professionals with decades of experience, many of whom have built their own careers from the ground up at Shead.

Stability, loyalty and low turnover

One of the hallmarks of Shead’s culture is longevity. Staff turnover is far lower than the industry average, with many team members staying five, ten or even twenty plus years. For clients, this means continuity and long-term relationships. For staff, it reflects a supportive environment where loyalty and ambition are rewarded.

Bill knows this firsthand. He joined Shead over 30 years ago as a residential leasing clerk. Within six years, he was offered shareholding – giving him real skin in the game and a pathway to eventually becoming principal and licensee. Today, Shead continues to extend similar opportunities to ambitious team members ready to take their careers to the next level.

A clear pathway for growth

At Shead, career progression isn’t capped. While some staff are content with stable, well-paid roles in property management or leasing, others aspire to build businesses within the business, backed by Shead’s reputation and resources. With competitive commission structures, shareholder opportunities and a supportive culture, the earning potential and career scope are uncapped for those who are hungry to succeed.

As Bill puts it: “We provide the platform and the mentorship. Where you end up is up to you. If you want to run your own business within the business, the opportunity is there.”

Ready to explore a career in commercial real estate?

For school leavers and young people unsure of their next step, Shead offers an alternative to the traditional university pathway – a chance to learn, earn and grow in a career with no ceiling. With commitment and curiosity, an entry-level role can lead to a thriving career in commercial property, working with professional clients on the Lower North Shore and beyond.